Women have always been absolutely crucial to the struggles of the Left and continue to form the backbone of many campaigns for social justice, workers’ rights and income equality. There is no question that the women of the Left have fought and won, not only for themselves but for many members of marginalised groups. Feminist movements have not only been successful in advocating for women; feminists meaningfully participate in a broad spectrum of left-wing organising and consciousness-raising.
But many of us have experienced passive and aggressive sexism in left-wing spaces, and this feels even more disappointing and difficult than the usual injuries inflicted by the patriarchy. Is it that the cultural imagination positions class struggle within a masculine framework? Or is it just that structural sexism affects every environment, even those committed to class equality?
For those of us on the broad progressive Left it can sometimes be frustrating to have our concerns about gender sidelined, or even blatantly disrespected. But engagement and activism on the Left still arguably remains the best chance we have of integrating our fight for gender justice into the bigger picture of a fairer society for all.
So let’s talk about it! We fully expect this to be a robust and passionate discussion among colleagues and friends, taking full advantage of the space we’ve lovingly created at CLF - respectful, collegial, constructive, but most of all, warm and funny when it really matters.
Incredibly excited to announce this stellar lineup:
Tanja Kovac - National Co-Convenor of Emily’s List Australia, special consultant to the Royal Commission into Family Violence, activist, feminist
Van Badham - columnist for Guardian Australia, acclaimed playwright, Vice President of Victorian Branch of MEAA, feminist
Hiba Casablanca - organiser for Young Workers Victoria, currently working on a national campaign at the ACTU, community advocate, feminist
Clare Ozich - Executive Director of the Australian Institute of Employment Rights, long-time policy advisor to The Greens, lawyer, feminist
This one is sure to be an absolute belter so book your tickets to avoid disappointment and please come early to enjoy our gorgeous new venue. Doors are open from 6pm so come then for the best seats, to enjoy the awesome food truck hospitality and sample the drink specials. We’re looking forward to seeing your smiling faces at another instalment of Melbourne’s favourite feminist talkshow.
Tuesday 1 September
6.30 - 8.30pm (sharp)
$15 prebooked online or $20 on the door if not sold out
Food truck and venue doors open from 6pm
Wheelchair accessible and babies welcome
Tickets available via Trybooking
Warmest
Karen x