Plaid Ifanc Cymru: Momentum is Building

Plaid Ifanc Youth Winter School in Neath 2017.

A year ago today, the Plaid Ifanc Neath branch was celebrating its formation. A year later, the branch has doubled in membership and has this weekend hosted a Plaid Ifanc Winter School Event at the Gnoll Park. Like-minded activists from all over the country attended what was a very productive and interesting gathering. It gave us the opportunity to discuss ideas, to focus on working hard, and to continue to spread Plaid Ifanc's message to young people in Wales. I have recently become secretary of the Cardiff branch. However, myself and Jamie Evans, Plaid Ifanc Neath Chair (who have both grown up in Neath) were incredibly enthused to see how many young people turned up to a political event in our area.



It's not just in Neath that Plaid Ifanc have flourished. The Neath Winter School comes shortly after a similar event was held in North Wales in Bangor. Several other branches have formed over the past year. Staggeringly, what was an initial crowd of 9 members in a 2013 AGM, the Plaid Ifanc Youth national movement has grown to over 200 members; outgrowing any of our ambitions.

The photos at various events showcase the numbers of Plaid Ifanc Youth that go out and campaign for our cause. We contributed significantly to Leanne Wood's victory in the Rhondda and more recently, Plaid's astounding victory in the Grangetown by-election. Several Plaid Ifanc members and I campaigned for Neil McEvoy in Cardiff West and came incredibly close to a historic victory. Recent polls have shown that if the election were today, Plaid Cymru would have won that seat.



On a continental basis, several Plaid Ifanc members have visited Brussels and some have had the opportunity to work with Jill Evans MEP and the European Free Alliance. We maintain strong friendships with many activists from Catalonia and the Basque Country and several members have enjoyed the opportunity of visiting these places.





Morgan Bowler-Brown is standing in Newport West.

Change is coming in Wales. It may take time, but if we look to the May local elections, we'll find that a record number of Plaid Ifanc members are standing. Nobody would have thought 4 years ago that this could be possible. What we've all found, and encouraged each other in the process, is that change is possible; with determination, passion and commitment. Those not standing are completely behind supporting our Plaid Ifanc candidates, as well as campaigning in various other seats across Wales to help Plaid Cymru candidates.


This isn't just a group of young people engaged in local politics, this is a group of young people dedicated to participate in local politics; to make a difference and to bring change to our communities. Tradition is a dangerous element. Accepting that things are just the way they are can often interupt our course. To myself and other activists, we recognise that change is possible with groundwork. I know there are many other young people who dislike the lack of powers handed to Wales, who dislike the way the Welsh Government are taking our votes for granted and who dislike the austerity measures imposed on vulnerable people in our communities.





If we spread the message, I'm convinced that our movement can continue to grow and we can demonstrate that Wales deserves better. Plaid Cymru are a progressive and realistic alternative choice to politics in Wales. I strongly believe that the people's best interests are at heart. I'm convinced that Cardiff Plaid will make a strong impact in this years local elections. This, as well as other advances across the country would make a profound statement to our cause.

It has been an exciting journey being involved with Plaid Ifanc Youth. I'm looking forward to working with others to spread our word across Wales and encourage those interested to join us. Commitment, dedication and passion could change our nation.

If you're interested, join our cause, and you may be part of an even bigger picture of members in Plaid Ifanc's next group photo.



Another Europe: Combatting the Right and Embracing Our European Identity

‘Brexit means Brexit. The most blurred statement of 2016’

2016 will be a year to remember in future history and politics classes. For many of us, it may well be a year we’d prefer to forget. Britain voted Leave in the EU Referendum, including 52.5% in Wales. On the other side of the Atlantic, America decided, and Donald Trump gained his ticket to the White House.

Plaid Ifanc members and I
 at this years Autumn Conference.

On a personal level however, I will remember 2016 as the first year I really got involved in politics. I went to my first Plaid Cymru Autumn Conference in Llangollen, and I recently visited Brussels to see Plaid's Jill Evans MEP work. It helped me learn more about European politics and the alternatives to securing the best deal out of Brexit. I have become more active with Plaid Ifanc and have enjoyed immersing myself with other activists who are interested in how we aim to shape our future.

The Many Faces of the Debate

To some extent, I can empathise with the political and economic argument that has defined Brexit. Many voted against the so called ‘unelected officials’ making decisions from Brussels. Others were concerned with the lack of economic benefits gained from EU membership. However, I fear that Westminster under the Tory rule, and the Welsh Government under Labour leadership is the new ‘establishment’ in disguise. We can say that the people have spoken, but the question is, will the benefits of Brexit be felt equally nationwide? I’m not so sure.

My biggest concern has always been the cultural argument behind Brexit – one, which in my opinion has been tarnished by a right-wing, divisive and discriminatory ideology. It’s something I feel ashamed to be a part of, and it completely undermines the values of democracy. We must embrace collectivism as the UK prepares to leave the political and economic set-up of the EU.

Going Forward: EFA ( http://www.e-f-a.org/home/ )



2017 has to be the year of progressive politics. It’s important to fight for what we value the most. I value being Welsh and European. I’d like to think others; English, Scottish, Irish and Northern Irish also take pride in being European. There’s always a bigger picture, and solidarity always beats division. 

My way of speaking up for what I feel passionate about is writing this blog. I want to share my experiences in Brussels; where I learnt more about European politics and importantly; the European Free Alliance.

Post Conference meeting between representatives of Plaid Cymru, Jill Evans MEP, Gerard Bona, Catalonia and Günther Dauwen, Director of EFA.  

I worry about Wales’ position as the Brexit negotiations begin. I don’t want us to be left behind, in the tracks of the right-wing vision of progression. The Welsh Government now, more than ever needs to have more influence in our pursuit of self-determination. Initially, I complained about Brexit. But now, it’s about ensuring that the best deal is made.

Continental Shift

I see solutions in Europe, in a new paradigm of European politics. This has been reinforced by my trip to Brussels, where I met with members of the European Free Alliance. It is easy to focus on differences at times like these, but it is crucial to remember our similarities. EFA ‘represent Europe’s stateless nations, regions and disadvantaged minorities’. It was established in 2004. EFA was one of the first Europe wide political parties. With representatives from Scotland, Catalonia, Wales and Latvia, it calls for progressive politics. It aims to get rid of racism and xenophobia, and instead, calls for democracy and encourages the fight for self-determination. It is the sixth largest group in the European Parliament and Plaid Cymru is one of its members.

On my trip to Brussels, I met Gerard Bona, an activist from Catalonia. He is also head of the Youth Movement in EFA. It was incredibly insightful to hear his opinion of EFA.

“EFA plays a very important role in uniting different movements that are by nature, perhaps too focussed in themselves. These movements are maybe too small to believe that there are other people that face the same problems that they have.

EFA helps us to realise that we are not alone in our fights”

We must look forward to 2017. We must continue the fight for progressive politics and ensure that the Westminster establishment does not take the Referendum result for granted. We need equal representation now more than ever, and it’s time to put an end to the divisive rhetoric and mind-set that has emerged from the Brexit debate.

We are Welsh, English, Scottish and Irish, but we are also European, and it is time, for #AnotherEurope

"You Don't Win Votes, You Earn Them." Plaid Cymru Take Grangetown

Imagine four years ago, waking up to the news that Plaid Cymru had gained a Council seat in the South of our Capital. Difficult to envisage? That's because until yesterday, it had never happened. Welsh Labour losing a seat in a so-called 'heartland' is still to many, completely unheard of. But we only have to look to the Rhondda, to Blaengwrach, to Grangetown, to see, that tides are changing, and the 'Clear Green Water' of Plaid Cymru, is rising.

Plaid's fellow Cardiff Cllr in Fairwater, Neil McEvoy described Tariq Awan's emphatic result as a 'historic win', asserting that 'there are no safe Labour seats left in Cardiff'. Elin Roberts, Plaid's candidate in Grangetown for the May election also stated how 'change is coming to our Capital'. Four years ago, we might have laughed, just as some may have when Neil McEvoy suggested Plaid's vote in Cardiff West would double in May 2016. Some may have laughed when Plaid's targets of taking over Cardiff Council in May 2017 were first mentioned. Between now and May, we could be seeing some very anxious laughs.

Throughout the build-up to the election, Tariq Awan has demonstrated the importance of being a well-known, local face in the Community, an aspect that has been neglected by many 'local' Labour Councillors in recent years. He has displayed how crucial it is to listen to the concerns of the people, to offer something different, something which he, and Cardiff Plaid campaigners did tirelessly.

After his victory, the newly elected Councillor and lifelong Grangetown resident opened a Surgery at 11 o'clock. It's just the start of Tariq's pledges to clean up Grangetown in every sense.

There has been a wave of support and enthusiasm towards Plaid Cymru in the past year. Leanne Wood gained the Rhondda. We saw swings in Blaenau Gwent, Cardiff West. Carolyn Edwards was locally elected in Blaengrwach, Neath Port Talbot. Plaid held an inspiring Conference in Llangollen, ruling out coalition with the Labour Party...and now, Plaid Cymru and the countless numbers of Cardiff Plaid activists are celebrating the first gain outside of the West of our Capital.

So, what has all of this taught us? Quite simply - you don't win votes, you earn them. If we've learnt anything from Welsh Labour over the past 17 years, it's that you shouldn't neglect your supporters. Those supporters will grow dissatisfied and seek other alternatives.

The Welsh political landscape is ready for change, but change does not come from solely planting the seed. The seed has certainly been planted, but it is fundamental that all members and supporters allow that seed to grow.

Never underestimate the power of a conversation.

If you disassociate yourself with the opinion of the people and become arrogant with your position, you will lose track of what is needed. Plaid must ensure that this does not happen, and continue to listen to the concerns of those in our communities. Why is Tariq focussing on cleaning up Grangetown? Why have there been consultations about the LDP in our Capital? Why have there been campaigns against needle use in Butetown? Because these are concerns of the people - the people have spoken, and Plaid Cymru have listened and taken action.

The victory in the Rhondda, in Blaengwrach and in Grangetown were no coincidence. The swings across Wales from Labour to Plaid Cymru - not a coincidence. They were the result of commitment from members, from conversations door to door, from local campaigns, delivering leaflets and interacting with the community.

So what do we take from last nights victory? We must remember to never underestimate the power of one conversation, one door knock, one leaflet delivery and one telephone conversation.

The precedent has been set and the momentum is with us.
We all have a role to play. Whether that be encouraging people to join the Party, or encourage people to not vote on habit and vote for 'the same old and no change'. Change is possible by the power of the people.


Plaid Cymru can be the answer to local change - it is our job to spread that message.


 https://www.partyof.wales/join/




Ymlaen - Forward Stronger - May 17.

PC16: Forward, Stronger

                

It's not often I write a politically based blog. It's not often that I actually write a blog, in fact. The last one I wrote was a bit of a rant about Cardiff City being re branded to red.

The desire to write this one however, is quite different.
I'm absolutely shattered after a busy weekend, some of which spent glamping with Plaid Ifanc in a field in Llangollen... But, I'm inspired. Very inspired.

Autumn Conference was such a positive experience for me. I met so many like minded activists and was able to place many faces to names. It reiterated to me how important these types of gatherings are; discussing how we think Wales should be taken forward. Some issues may spark debates, but these are fundamental, helpful even. We get to see a broader picture of how people in Wales are reacting to the rapidly changing political landscape, the vacuum that's been created as a result of Brexit. On the topic of Brexit, I went out with Plaid Ifanc for dinner on Friday evening where we discussed the consequences, and the potential dangers that are going to come with the process. It was comforting. Comforting to know that I wasn't the only one so anxious, devastated and angry at the result in June. The political landscape in Wales is changing. 




As Neil McEvoy AM said in his speech on Saturday, we must ensure that Plaid Cymru act as the robust opposition to Welsh Labour, the robust opposition that people in Wales want. The fact that more than 10,000 people voted for Neil McEvoy in Cardiff West was considered "unprecedented", and the result 5 years ago would have been seen as an "impossible dream."
Neil McEvoy AM Conference Speech
 The exciting reality is, these dreams are not becoming so impossible anymore. The power is in our hands and we have the opportunity to continue the success of the rise in Plaid's support. Let Conference be that stepping stone. Let it inspire us to move forward, to take action, to converse with people, and to spread Plaid Cymru's vision. 

"We are not seeking a coalition with the Labour Party." 

This was the statement from Leanne Wood, leader and newly appointed AM in the Rhondda. It was a statement that received an emphatic applause from the audience. The people of Wales want robust opposition, and Plaid Cymru must act as one. However, this doesn't just come from the AMs, it comes from us, as members, as supporters, as people living in Wales and thriving for change. All it takes is one conversation, one door knock, one telephone canvass. The power to change Wales, to move Wales forward is ultimately in our hands. This is even more crucial given the elections in May, where we have the opportunity to vote for change, for positive change, for something different to the Labour system that has run out of ideas. 

We must think about the reasons why we supported Plaid, why we gave up our weekend to travel to Conference. We went because we are excited about change. We want to hear what others think, what the Assembly Members think, what we can do to help the cause. 
On a personal note, I enjoyed meeting up with Plaid Ifanc, in a very well attended fringe meeting at 5pm on Saturday. It was inspiring to see such a strong youth movement within Wales; a group of people so committed, passionate and excited about shaping Wales' future.

Plaid Ifanc Cymru

Let Conference be the platform to change in Wales. Let's build upon it and become the robust opposition and let us speak out for the people of Wales, as the Party of Wales.