What Labour Need To Do Now is Easy: Listen

I study a nuanced political theory called Progressive Left Realist Feminism. This essentially looks at the relationship between idealism (what we think ought to happen) and realism (what will actually happen). It advises that we are realistic in our expectations as well as resilient, reflexive and inclusive in light of our failures.

The Corbyn Project did not work for a number of reasons, but largely because it tried to bring an idealistic agenda to a nation grappling with very real political complexity. Re-nationalising the railway in principle is terrific, but so is mandatory afternoon tea for all citizens from 3-5pm. Neither of these dreams is going to stand up in a world dominated by capitalism.

Before hurtling into more panicked policies and desperate flailing ideological black holes, what Labour members and politicians need to do now is stop. Just for a minute, to think about their thinking. Take some deep breaths. Then say: ‘Our fight for social justice remains the same, but we need to listen to voters about how to do this.’

It is not the support of those affected by economic inequality or the emphasis on the NHS that put people off voting Labour. Nor was it the desire to fund schools to make our children brilliant. We did not alienate a nation by speaking out about domestic violence nor about sustainable living. So what was it?

Ask.

Carry out vast social research projects, hold events where people can talk freely, invite people from across the nation to focus groups and relearn how to listen. Be present. Show us that really the loss of seats does not make the party any less passionate about equality.

It is my experience as a social researcher and feminist that presumption of a person’s needs and desires is a aggressive act. It removes their voices. Give people their voices back and adapt your policies to include them. Even if you don’t agree on certain points. Because the left is for everybody. It is a platform to bring ideas and negotiate solutions by hearing one another. And after all, what is more empowering to the electorate than being heard?