AUGE/UG on the International Day of Struggle of the Working Class

2023-05-01 05:00:30

We march in solidarity, but not in step

Vienna (OTS) – In Austria, but also in other countries, May Day is accompanied by a particular disenchantment with politics. The last elections have shown once again that politics can be made with simple populist phrase-mongering. This is the result of decades of misunderstood proxy politics. Vera Koller, spokeswoman for AUGE/UG Vienna, is convinced that “people were deprived of political interest.” Don’t think for yourself, but confidently leave it to others, was the perhaps well-intentioned motto. This fallacy is now taking its revenge. While elected representatives cannot find answers to people’s problems, large corporations and big banks use their connections and know-how to rake in huge sums of profit at the expense of society.

Critical minds, precise observers are sorted out from parties. Fighters for opinions, convinced comrades-in-arms disparaged as radicals. Right-wing extremists, right-wing authoritarians and all sorts of conspiracy groups adorn themselves with buzzwords such as free, libertarian or fighting, although these words mean the exact opposite of what these groups stand for.

“The wrong conclusion is that the left must be united, not debate. The lively discussion is exactly what constitutes solidarity and what a democratic society needs. Enduring not always having the same opinion, exchanging ideas, under the influence of all expertise. Getting involved as much as possible instead of grumbling on the sofa bench, which we all know. “Participation begins in the workplace and ends at the ballot box, that’s how democracy should be,” says Vera Koller

To think, live and fight together, in solidarity, has always been the deepest conviction of the workers! Let’s use the first of May for a strong sign!