We have not yet filled all the meeting spaces and not got texts in from all the groups running meetings, but we wanted to advertise the meetings we have so far. We cannot put times to meetings until we have the full programme sorted, so come back soon for these.  All meetings, discussions, talks are 50 minutes unless stated.

Texts for all meetings are written by the groups themselves.

We are asking all facilitators and participants in meetings to keep meetings to 50 minutes instead of 1 hour (or 1 hour 50 minutes instead of 2 hours). This is because some comrades cannot get from room to room as quickly as others, while others need to set up specialist equipment to be able to participate in meetings fully. This is part of our ongoing strategy of making the bookfair more accessible to all participants.

SKEEL LECTURE ROOM

John Pilger

Journalist, author and documentary filmmaker, John Pilger, will spend half an hour talking with a member of the London Anarchist Bookfair collective about current world issues. This will be followed by a question and answer session with those at the meeting. John has been a foreign correspondent and a front-line war reporter since the Vietnam War in 1967. He is an impassioned critic of foreign military and economic adventures by Western governments. Come to listen and participate in the meeting. Afterwards John will stay around to do book signings.

Noam Chomsky: Does the anarchist revolution need science?

Noam Chomsky is the world’s best-known critic of US foreign policy – and the world’s most famous living anarchist. He is also the most widely cited intellectual of the postwar period, having revolutionized linguistics almost single-handedly. But how do these two sides of Chomsky connect up? Milan Rai is the editor of ‘Peace News’, author of ‘Chomsky’s Politics’ and a well-known activist. Chris Knight is an anthropologist, activist and specialist in the origins of language. In this session, each will be presenting a contrasting picture of the possible connections between Chomsky’s politics and his science.” (1 hour 20 minutes).

A debate between Milan Rai and Chris Knight.

Will Cameron’s cuts lead to working class defeat or to a new anti capitalist movement? 

Debate with Paul Mason journalist on BBC’s newsnight (see his blog at bbc.co.uk), Hillel Ticktin editor of Critique a journal of socialist theory (see his articles at libcom.org) and a speaker from Endnotes (see their articles at endnotes.org.uk). The British state has now decided on an all out attack on the living standards of the entire working class – employed and unemployed, young and old, consumers and service users. The last time a UK Government attacked everyone simultaneously was the Poll Tax which provoked widespread opposition and Thatcher’s downfall. What is it about the present economic crisis that has again persuaded the government to risk such an all out assault. Can they success or will they provoke a new anti capitalist movement. (1 hour 50 minutes) .

Life After Capitalism - vision and strategy for a participatory economy.
Introducing Participatory Economics - vision for a post-capitalist economy

In the first of two talks Michael Albert (founder of ZCom and author of “Parecon – Life After Capitalism”, amongst many other important achievements) will address all the key issues that anti-capitalists face today. Combined, the ideas presented in these talks constitute a comprehensive program for economic transformation. Anyone serious about organising for an alternative economic system should not miss this opportunity to engage with one of the leading revolutionary thinker / organisers of the day.

Talk by: Michael Albert

OTHER ROOMS (These are in no particular order)

Anarchism in Croatia

After a short presentation on the history of anarchist activities in Croatia, we'll focus on the present situation, existing initiatives, activities, ideas and discussions among anarchists in Croatia. The presentation will be given by anarchists involved in the organisation of the Zagreb Anarchist Bookfair (among other things).

100 years of Swedish syndicalism. The story of the SAC (The Central Organization of Swedish Workers)

Midsummer 2010 marked the 100th anniversary of the Swedish syndicalist union SAC. In its history, the SAC has experienced low points and its membership has dropped below six thousand, but the continuity and strength of the organization is fascinating and unique, not least from an international perspective. But where does the SAC stand today? And where will the SAC be tomorrow? This lecture describes the history of the SAC, its victories and strengths as well as its setbacks and strategic mistakes. It will also reflect upon the organization's future.

Organised by: SAC Speaker: Jan Abrahamsson

Gurgaon, India - Documentary and Debate about Urban Development and a New Generation of Workers' Struggles in India

The film documentary shows life and struggles of recently migrated industrial workers and their families in Gurgaon, an industrial suburb of Delhi. Gurgaon and the wider industrial belt of Delhi emerged as one of the biggest global industrial clusters for IT, call centres, automobile and textile manufacturing. Recently a new generation of mainly temporary workers have entered the scene with wildcat strikes and factory occupations. The documentary also portrays the efforts of a small group of revolutionaries, publishing a monthly proletarian newspaper and encouraging new forms of subversive self-organisation. A friend of these comrades, who has stayed and worked in Gurgaon, will debate about the experience after the film. (1 hour 50 minutes) 

www.gurgaonworkersnews.wordpress.com

Anarchist Feminism

This year has seen a great many feminist gatherings and conferences in the UK, including anarcha-feminist events in Manchester and Brighton and new anarcha-feminist collectives springing up all over the place. We are establishing our networks, sharing our ideas and establishing anarchist feminism not just as a tendency within the anarchist movement but as a movement in itself. This meeting will be a chance to discuss our progress over the last year, expand our networks, share news of projects we're involved in and look to the future. 

Organised by: Anarchist Federation

Community organising against the EDL

Whitechapel Anarchist Group share the lessons learned from working with community organisations in the East End of London against a threatened EDL incursion to protest against an Islamist conference.

Radical Healthcare Workers

Following the launch of an online Radical Healthcare Workers discussion forum, this is a meeting for anarchist healthcare workers to discuss, network, and make plans around issues relevant to working in or alongside the NHS.

Principled Opportunism
John Barker - Bending the bars

John Barker, ex-Angry Brigade member, will be reading from his book "Bending the Bars" with space during the session for questions and answers. John will also be discussing the possibilities of "political" fiction writing. Come along, listen and then join it.

Their crisis and ours - A discussion about financial capitalism

Despite incessant reference to the 'economic crisis', for many it is still unclear what exactly is meant by the term 'crisis' or how and why it happened, let alone what it means for anarchists. This session will begin with an accessible introduction to the financial crisis, followed by a discussion of the political implications of government programmes of 'privatizing profit and nationalising risk', what the impact on communities and workplaces will be and how we can organize locally against austerity.

Organised by: Corporate Watch

Stop (bleating on about) Tory Cuts

Since the general election a "Tory cuts" rhetoric has been gushing from some of the Left ‘socialist’ parties. It's becoming wearing. It was Labour that bailed the banks out with billions of pounds of public money, and Labour that was preparing to wield the axe against public services if they’d won another term. The 'Left' know this. So why is there no attempt to use the memory of this to inform present struggles? Why does it feel as though we have time-warped back to the Thatcher era instead? We will discuss these and other issues relating to radical responses to the cuts agenda.

Organised by: Anarchist Federation

Workers' Organisation and State Repression 

Anarcho-syndicalists have been facing repression across Europe, with a court ban in Germany and imprisonment of the Belgrade 6 for 'international terrorism' in Serbia amongst the prominent cases. An international speaker will discuss the repression - and what got the state so worried in first place.

Organised by: Solidarity Federation

Life After Capitalism - vision and strategy for a participatory economy
Thinking About Organising – strategy for the anti-capitalist movement.

In the second of two talks Michael Albert (founder of ZCom and author of “Parecon – Life After Capitalism”, amongst many other important achievements) will address all the key issues that anti-capitalists face today. Combined, the ideas presented in these talks constitute a comprehensive program for economic transformation. Anyone serious about organising for an alternative economic system should not miss this opportunity to engage with one of the leading revolutionary thinker / organisers of the day.

Talk by: Michael Albert

The Fight to Free Mumia

Mumia Abu-Jamal’s legal case has reached a more critical state than ever this year and his life is still in grave danger. Come and show your solidarity and support for this outstanding political prisoner, whose been on death row for nearly 30 years for a crime he didn’t commit. Mumia, ‘The Voice of The Voiceless’, spoke out for working people and the oppressed. He continues to do so by writing and broadcasting from death row. The US state wants to silence this voice. We will discuss the latest updates in his case and how best to continue the fight to free Mumia.

Organised by: Free Mumia Campaign

What is the role of the Anarchist Black Cross? 

Comrades are invited to consider what is the role of the ABC in the current UK context? What can be done to build a militant prisoner solidarity network? There will be brief introductions to the history of the ABC, and the changes to its role in the UK over the last 20 years. Then let the debate rage!

Organised by: Bristol & Brighton ABC groups

The National Shop Stewards Network  
Rebuilding the Workers Movement

In 1919 parts of Britain were on the brink of revolution. The organisation which so threatened the state and capitalism was based around committees of shop stewards. That movement was built in a matter of years and decades. Today the working class is under attack, and we're not fit for the fight. Years of defeats and 'partnership' have weakened our organisations. Rebuilding our unions from the grassroots is the task of the NSSN. Come hear about: The project so far; our future plans; What we can do to rebuild working class organisation in the workplace.

12 noon – 12.50pm
Talking History and Making History

Celebrating and learning from radical history, linking in to our present and future experience. Is history irrelevant? IS studying the past just avoiding the present? Or can struggles, movements and personalities from 'history' inspire us and offer lessons, ideas and links that persist through time. A chance for people involved in anarchist or radical history projects, and anyone else interested, to swap and share their ideas, experiences and motives of using the past to reinvigorate and inform the present and transform the future.

Organised by: Past Tense

Discovering Hidden History 

Those who have seized ownership and control of the resources of society are very keen to also control what goes on in our heads. So a big part of radical history is digging out examples of resistance that the authorities have hidden. In this meeting we look at two examples (1) Joe Jacobs who lived very close to here and organised for 40 years after his fight against Moseley's fascists in 1936 and (2) Walter Conway, from humble beginnings, was the main organiser for hospital medical services for ordinary people, in Tredegar , South Wales, before the national health service.

Organised by: Radical History Network of North East London

Earth First! A brief introduction

Since 1991 a network of radical eco-activists, committed to direct action and non-hierarchical organisation, has evolved through struggles as diverse as forest defence, road-protest, anti GM, climate justice and community solidarity to name a few. This meeting will introduce the history of this network, tell you a bit about what’s happening today, with space for questions and answers.

How to make a Data Protection Act request

How to make a Data Protection Act request for your personal information and photos that the police hold on you in their database. Why request this data, who should (and shouldn’t)make DPA requests to the police? An introduction to using the Data protection Act and Freedom of Information Act to get information out of the police.

Organised by: Fitwatch

How to set up a Co-op  

A workshop to discuss the ins and outs of setting up a housing or workers co-op.

Organised by: Radical Routes

Opposing the domestic extremist units 

Meeting looking at the way in which the domestic extremist units work, the type of data they hold on us and what we can do to challenge them.

Organised by: Fitwatch

Workplace struggles & solidarity with precarious workers

This year witnessed a series of actions by precarious workers, most notably cleaners, and solidarity by a variety of groups not directly affected. This meeting seeks to explore the issues surrounding the relationship between workers directly affected by a dispute and the solidarity from those individuals and groups not directly affected. Should we seek to; 'lead' the workers, 'obediently' respect their every wishes or is there a 'third' way? A number of organisations involved in the campaigns and disputes have been invited to speak and explain their approach to the issues raised, so please join us to discuss.

Organised by: International Workers of the World

Love, Sex & Anarchy

It is generally supposed within anarchism that society would be decentralised in a post Capitalist world. But how would this work? To what degree would such local communities be autonomous or federated? Would all communities be based on the same political and economic system or would a patchwork of diversity be more realisable? How would industry be organised in such a society? The LAF will present a few ideas on this tricky topic before opening the floor to debate.

Tracking corporate complicity in Israeli apartheid and occupation

Since 2004, the focus of the Palestine solidarity movement has been a call for ‘Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions’ (BDS), made by hundreds of Palestinian civil society organisations and trade unions. Campaigners around the world have engaged in diverse forms of solidarity action in line with this call. Corporate Watch’s research, tracking corporate complicity in the occupation of Palestine, intends to strengthen and provide a resource for this growing BDS movement and the wider international solidarity movement. This workshop will identify corporate targets in the UK and beyond and discuss prospects for direct action as part of the movement.

Organised by: Corporate Watch

A thousand rages, one heart: The Zapatista communities live!

The last 18 months has seen a new phase in paramilitary attacks against Zapatista communities. This presentation highlights the direct links between attempted land grabs by paramilitaries of land recuperated by the Zapatistas in 1994 and the land needed for corporate tourist developments and other commercial interests in Chiapas. The attacks form part of a wider Mexican State strategy of repression. However the attacks have been met with inspiring acts of resistance as progress continues with the Zapatista autonomous health and education systems. Find out more at the meeting about the Thousand Rages international day of action on November 17th, the 27th anniversary of the founding of the EZLN.

Organised by the UK Zapatista Solidarity Network

Envisaging a new human society

What happens after capitalism is abolished? Can theory help us prepare for the problems of building a new society and mode of production? How might we organise our work and plan the production and distribution of goods and services? How should individuals be rewarded for the work they do? Why is it so important to break with commodity production and the law of value? How can we overcome the separation between mental and manual labour?

Organised by: Hobgoblin magazine

Anarchism and Education

Judith Suissa will discuss her book, Anarchism and Education; A Philosophical Perspective (newly released by PM Press, 2010). The book is a philosophical account of the underpinnings of anarchist educational theory and practice. Examining the historical tradition of anarchist schools, and drawing a distinction between anarchist education and libertarian, Marxist and liberal education, the book argues that not only has this tradition been neglected by educational philosophers and theorists, but that the failure by political theorists to pay adequate attention to the role of education in anarchist thought has contributed to some of the misperceptions surrounding anarchism.

Life Under The Jolly Roger: Reflections on Golden Age Piracy

In discussing his new book Life Under the Jolly Roger, Gabriel Kuhn will do his best to examine the political and cultural significance of these nomadic outlaws by relating historical accounts to a wide range of theoretical concepts — reaching from Marshall Sahlins and Pierre Clastres to Mao-Tse Tung and Eric J. Hobsbawm via Friedrich Nietzsche and Michel Foucault. Gabriel lives as an independent author and translator in Stockholm, Sweden. He received a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Innsbruck in 1996, and has been involved in radical politics and publishing since the 1980s.

Antibodies – life, death and resistance in the psyche of the superorganism

Paul Cudenec discusses his new booklet on eco-anarchist philosophy, which draws on the work of thinkers from Meister Eckhart to the Invincible Committee via Tolstoy, Landauer, Camus and Jung. What does it mean to be an individual and part of a larger whole at one and the same time?

Organised by: The Pork Bolter

Primitive communism and its contemporary relevance

The chief value of the study of human origins is that it nails the myth that ‘no revolution can ever change human nature’. It shows, on the contrary, that everything distinctively human about our nature - our ability to speak, to see ourselves as others see us, to aspire to act on moral principle - has come to prevail in our species thanks precisely to the greatest revolution in history, ‘the revolution which worked’. This 'human revolution' broke out in Africa more than a hundred thousand years ago gave rise to an egalitarian, essentially anarchist, lifestyle which lasted in most parts of the world until only three or four thousand years ago. We know we can win the coming revolution because in a real sense, we won it already when language and culture were first established. We are a species designed for communist egalitarianism, not class society or capitalism. (1 hour 50 minutes).

Organised by: Radical Anthropology Group, speaker Prof Chris Knight

A revolutionary centenary? The Cambrian Combine Strike and Tonypandy Riots of 1910

100 years ago a bitter-year-long coal strike erupted in the Rhondda Valley. Was it both the start and the peak of British syndicalism? And why did the Russian revolution kill this tradition?

A talk by Dave Chapple, Chair, NSSN

Reclaiming the Platform - Platformism, Especifismo and the British anarchist tradition

There has perhaps never been such a controversial contribution to the theory and practice of the anarchist movement than the ideas forwarded by the Delo Truda group in the Organisational Platform of Libertarian Communists. The document has both been praised as a "valuable historical reference" for class-struggle anarchists seeking "greater effectiveness and a way out of political isolation, stagnation and confusion", but also denounced as an attempt to "Bolshevise" anarchism. Yet "platformism” continues as a vibrant tradition within the global anarchist movement. A discussion on the Platformist tradition, accompanying a new pamphlet accessing the contemporary Platformist and Especifismo traditions.

Organised by: Anarchist Federation

Free thought and the education factory

Education either functions as an instrument which is used to facilitate integration of the younger generation into the logic of the present system and bring about conformity or it becomes the practice of freedom, the means by which men and women deal critically and creatively with reality and discover how to participate in the transformation of their world.

Join the Autonomous Students Network to discuss the above and much more.

From Proudhon to Kropotkin

This year marks the 170th anniversary of transformation of radical politics forever when Proudhon proclaimed myself an anarchist and that “property is theft”. Iain McKay (“An Anarchist FAQ”) will be discussing Proudhon’s ideas in light of a new anthology of his writings (“Property is Theft”, AK Press, 2010). He will show how Proudhon influenced revolutionary anarchism (and Marxism) as well as its impact of the biological theories of mutual aid and mutualism (“Mutual Aid: An Introduction and Evaluation”, AK Press, 2010).

Organised by: Bristol and Brighton Anarchist Black Cross

An Army of Anarchists? Dismantling the Gandhi Icon

“India.... in her impatience has produced an army of anarchists. I myself am an anarchist, but of another type” (M K Gandhi 1916). Gandhi has not been well-served by the global peace movement. He has become a totem, an icon, a saint who did no wrong, and who exercised magical powers (“he threw the British out of India”). To begin to be able to learn from Gandhi, we must first dismantle the myth. Gandhi-the-saint is a construction that lets us off the hook of our own responsibility for change and disruption.

Organised by: Peace News
Speaker: Milan Rai

Gustav Landauer and Revolution

“Landauer is the most important agitator of the radical and revolutionary movement in the entire country.” This is how Gustav Landauer is described in a German police file from 1893. Twenty-six years later, Landauer would die at the hands of reactionary soldiers who overthrew the Bavarian Council Republic, a three-week attempt to realize libertarian socialism amidst the turmoil of post-World War I Germany. Gabriel Kuhn lives as an independent author and translator in Stockholm, Sweden. He received a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Innsbruck in 1996, and has been involved in radical politics and publishing since the 1980s.

Declaration from the editors of Principia Dialectica

Everyone today has read “Capital” declared Louis Althusser towards the end of the last century. The reading the world took of Marx’s magnum opus wasn't relevant then yet alone today. In fact, the reading of Capital meant submitting the value form to the so-called exigencies and ‘needs’ of the proletariat, an interpretation that resulted in an unparalleled reign of brutality for many millions across the planet. Seeing the new century through the lens of Marx’s Capital today means recognising that labour, as the source of value, is part of a tripartite system of domination, along with the commodity and capital itself. We seek to further this analysis.

Organised by: Principia Dialectica