Assemble!
It’s Time to Assemble! In today’s sociopolitical landscape, many residents and communities may feel that their voices are lost, or obfuscated – lost in the midst of partisan party politics.
“Assemble your Voice, Realise the Alternative” is about reclaiming that voice. It’s about bringing together communities and individuals at the grassroots level – forging an Alternative path for representation and governance.
Let’s think about the context. Grassroots and localist politics is arguably the bedrock of true democratic engagement. Don’t forget that grassroots movements are formed from the bottom up: real change begins not in the structures of power, but within our communities and neighbourhoods.
Therefore, Assemble encourages us to recognise the rich tapestry of experiences, perspectives, and creativity that each individual brings. We put aside partisan party politics, finding strength in the unity and diversity in our goals. This collective spirit is what drives Alternative independent political movements – movements unhindered by foul party politics, rather focusing entirely on the needs and wants of the people.
The fundamental element of Assemble, is well, Assemble. For a community to band together under a collective cause, there must be a catalyst.
Time to Assemble, an Umbrella project
Time to Assemble is a political movement organised by Umbrella / JustStopOil, in which the main aim is to spread awareness locally, to promote the election of independent politicians, under a constituency manifesto.
For instance, Assemble advocates for a “House of the People”, a form of peoples’ assembly characterised by widespread membership of independent and localist politicians – for “political parties have locked the public out of Parliament and citizens’ assemblies are the keys we need to free democracy.”
I won’t dwell too long about Umbrella’s Assemble, for they have more in-depth information regarding their programme.
Consolidated People’s Fund
The Consolidated People’s Fund (CPF) exemplifies how Alternatives can significantly bolster community support and engagement within their local areas. This communal-wide fund is dedicated to enhancing and enriching the local community through various initiatives and projects aimed at addressing local needs, and promoting sustainable development.
It serves as a testament to the Alternatives’ enshrined commitment to empowering local residents, and cultivating a thriving and inclusive community environment.
Only the most honourable Alternatives contribute directly to the People’s Fund, at the expense of their £91,000 MP salary. Apart from this, there are a number of ways that a community can increase their CPF…
Fundraising
Community Events
Assemblies
Local Partnerships
Ways to Assemble
| Category | Purpose | People’s Fund (CPF) | Community Involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| ↠ COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT | |||
| Monthly/Bi-Monthly Resident Assemblies. | Regular Assemblies serve as a venue for residents to gather, discuss, address, and find solutions to local issues. These assemblies provide a space where everyone is allowed a Voice, and where diverse opinions and ideas can be shared freely. Regular Assemblies empower community members to actively participate in shaping the future of their neighborhoods. | Venue hire, refreshments, leaflets, equipment. | › Organising Committee: Plan & coordinate logistics. › Speakers: Lead discussion. › Notetakers: Take notes & report back. › Volunteers: Manage registrations, greet, etc. › Caterers: Refreshments. |
| ↠ SOCIAL ACTIVITIES | |||
| Day trips for socially vulnerable residents. | Day trips will be organised for residents who are at risk of social isolation (such as vulnerable elderly folk), but all community members are welcome. These outings will not only bolster community spirit and foster a sense of inclusion and belonging but also highlight the importance of community-based local politics. By bringing people together, these activities emphasise the role of local initiatives in addressing social issues and creating a connected community. This approach empowers residents to take active roles in shaping their community. | Transport hire, fund activities, trip funding support for those in need. | › Organising Committee: Plan schedule and manage bookings. Facilitate group activities during the trips. › Volunteers: Volunteer to transport residents if personal vehicles are used. Otherwise, hired transport. |
| Community Games Nights. | |||