Developing a network of progressive groups in Christchurch

Kia ora koutou,

In recent years progressive groups in Christchurch have tended to work on their own issues in isolation from each other. The earthquakes have also naturally meant a stronger personal focus for many people and their families.

We think the city would benefit from us working more closely together for the benefit of everyone and therefore we are proposing that together we develop a network of progressive groups and people here in Christchurch.

The aim would be to help each group gain greater support from a wider pool of supporters and potential supporters and to give a stronger public profile and direction for progressive politics in Christchurch.

On the practical side we are proposing the network organise a monthly forum at WEA to focus on a particular issue.

The first forum will be held on Monday 2 March from 7pm to 8.30pm at WEA, 59 Gloucester Street and will focus on the union campaign against zero hour contracts. It will have workers and union officials speak about the issue and seeking wider practical community support for this campaign.

At this meeting we will also want to get feedback on this proposed network and discuss how it could work most effectively for the benefit of progressive politics in Christchurch.

We hope you will be able to make the meeting.

In solidarity,

Ben Peterson, Union organiser

Liz Gordon, Former Alliance MP and QPEC spokesperson

Murray Horton, CAFCA, Anti-Bases Campaign

John Minto, QPEC spokesperson and Mana Movement co-vice President

Warren Brewer, political activist

Paul Hopkinson, political activist

Robert Lechte, Mana Otautahi member

Michael Will, MUNZ member

Lois McClintock, Internet Party candidate 2014

Byron Clark, political activist

Joe Davies, Union organiser