Socialist Causes

[Bossza007]

​

 

[Bossza007]

The Headquarters of the Socialist Causes’ Moscow Office is situated in Tverskaya Street, main radial street of Moscow and one of the most renowned streets in the world.
Reproduced work under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 adapted from this source​

Mother Russia, a caretaker, a taker, and a harbinger. For centuries, the Russian nation has shaped global discourse, its vast expanse marking a diverse tapestry within defined borders. From revolutions to chaos, Russia has witnessed it all, now embracing a period of peace as a modern nation. Moscow, the capital and financial heart of the Russian Federation, stands at its zenith. Tverskaya Street, a prominent radial artery, epitomizes the essence of this global capital.

On August 25, 2004, a Russian man arrived at the grand European-style SUMMIT Business Center, dressed in homage to his cultural heritage. Burtsov Semyon Borisovich presented his identity card to the receptionist. He inquired about preparations for Socialist Causes' inaugural event in Moscow since establishing their first international office. Greeted warmly, Borisovich was led through the meticulously decorated first floor, devoid of overt political affiliations but focused on education, awareness, and advocacy within local legal constraints. Approaching the main hall's entrance, doors opened to reveal a bustling scene of staff preparing for the upcoming panel discussion.

The main hall awaited the upcoming keynote speeches, panel discussions, and presentations scheduled for the following day. Theater-style seating provided ample comfort and visibility, with the stage set as a raised platform equipped with podiums, microphones, and AV gear for seamless presentations. Among the attendees were many founding members, Borisovich's friends and associates, all dedicated to shaping a vision they believed best for their motherland, Russia, distinguished among nations.

Borisovich proceeded to explore the breakout rooms and exhibition area, marveling at the sophisticated displays crafted by his fellow Russians. He reflected on Russia's vast untapped potential, particularly in its human capital and resources. The breakout rooms were arranged to facilitate workshops, group discussions, and interactive sessions, furnished with AV equipment, whiteboards, and conducive seating arrangements.

Venturing into the exhibition area, he observed dedicated spaces showcasing educational materials, publications, and multimedia presentations on democratic socialism, presenting both positive and critical perspectives. Interactive digital displays and tablets, some imported from Western nations like the United States, enhanced the visitor experience. He inspected the networking zone, envisioning valuable connections for tomorrow's attendees.

Satisfied with the preparations, Borisovich finalized details with the staff regarding restroom accessibility, refreshment stations, and catering services for breaks. The welcoming area featured signage, banners, and informative displays about Socialist Causes and the event agenda. A registration desk near the entrance facilitated check-ins, distributed event materials, offered memberships, and provided essential information to guests.

The next day arrived, marking the launch of the event after a month of promotions across social media and traditional channels. Titled "Economic Democracy and Social Justice: A New Path for Russia," the gathering in Moscow was orchestrated by the network of founding members of Socialist Causes. Its aim was to raise awareness about democratic socialism, forge local partnerships, facilitate meaningful discussions, and showcase practical applications. Given the proactive stance of the Russian government on socio-economic issues, Borisovich and his team had ample examples to illustrate how elements of democratic socialism could complement existing initiatives.

The event drew 375 attendees, a testament to its success as an inaugural gathering. Borisovich and his colleagues warmly engaged with participants at the welcoming area, outlining the organization's objectives and the day's agenda. Eventually, everyone convened in the main hall where Borisovich was slated to deliver a keynote speech. His task was clear: set the tone, articulate Socialist Causes' mission and objectives, and underscore the relevance of democratic socialism in Russia. As he stepped onto the stage, anticipation filled the air. With microphone in hand, Borisovich addressed the audience.

"Esteemed colleagues, honored guests, fellow citizens of our great nation, Today, we gather to discuss a vision for Russia's future – one that builds upon our strengths, addresses our challenges, and strives for a more equitable and prosperous society for all.

Our nation has a rich history of social and economic experimentation. From the revolutionary fervor of the past to our current era of stability and growth, Russia has always sought to chart its own path. Today, we stand at another crossroads, with the opportunity to blend the best of our traditions with innovative ideas for a just and democratic economic system.

Socialist Causes envisions a future where economic democracy and social justice are not just ideals, but realities. We believe in harnessing the power of our markets while ensuring they serve the needs of all our people. We advocate for decentralized, democratically planned economies where workers have a real stake in their enterprises.

But let us be clear: we are not here to impose a foreign ideology. Rather, we seek to explore how principles of democratic socialism can complement and enhance Russia's existing initiatives. Our government has already taken bold steps in areas like social welfare, education, and healthcare. We aim to build upon these foundations, fostering a system that maximizes both individual potential and collective well-being.

As we proceed with today's discussions, let us keep in mind the unique strengths of our nation – our vast resources, our educated workforce, our innovative spirit. These are the building blocks with which we can construct an economy that truly serves all Russians. Thank you, and I look forward to our productive dialogue."

As Borisovich concluded, polite applause filled the room, followed by enthusiastic cheers from his colleagues. He then announced Socialist Causes' participation in panel discussions on worker cooperatives, democratic planning, and environmental sustainability. Nine team members took their places on the vibrant sofa in front of a large screen, ready to discuss specific topics, share insights, and engage in lively discourse.

The discussion on worker cooperatives focused on their potential in Russia, highlighting benefits, challenges, and practical steps for establishment and sustainability. Democratic planning models were explored objectively, considering their capacity to empower local communities, promote economic equity, and spur innovation. The panel also addressed the intersection of economic development, social justice, and environmental sustainability, outlining strategies for a green transition.

Hours slipped away unnoticed since the event began. Borisovich and his team remained deeply engaged with the attendees, hoping they were equally attentive. It was a day they had prepared for eagerly. Borisovich met people of all ages and backgrounds, strangers united by their shared vision for Russia. As the day drew to a close, Borisovich and his team reviewed their achievements, noting with satisfaction that 255 new members had signed up.​

 

[Bossza007]

Auckland Central Business District (CBD), the economic heart of Auckland, the financial enter of New Zealand, and the area hosting the headquarters of Socialist Causes’ South Pacific office
Reproduced work under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license adapted from this source​

Aotearoa, the Land of the Long White Cloud, a realm of unspoiled beauty and enduring spirit. From the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps to the tranquil shores of the Pacific, New Zealand’s landscape told a story of resilience and harmony. Here, where the koru unfurled in verdant forests and the tūī sang its melodic tune, we were reminded of our duty to protect and nurture the land. In the heart of Auckland, at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, many gathered to embark on a new journey toward economic democracy and social justice.

Ross Wilson arrived at 22 Fanshawe Street early in the morning, standing before a tall building. To his surprise, several founding members were already there, ensuring the inaugural event would go smoothly. He greeted them enthusiastically, "Good morning, everyone," though the fatigue from last night's supermarket workers' dispute was evident. As time passed, the sun rose higher, and cars began to appear. More and more people gathered outside the South Pacific office of Socialist Causes. Soon, the warm sunshine turned into hot rays, and the main entrance of the building was opened to the public.

Inside, the reception area was bustling, decorated with banners and displays of Socialist Causes' information and event agendas. Wilson bumped into Sue Bradford, a familiar face from the Green Party. "Miss Bradford, congratulations on your reelection as an MP. I was tied up overseeing the audit of our funding for the Labour Party campaign and couldn’t attend your conference."

She laughed warmly. "No need to apologize, Mr. Wilson. I never expected you to stop mingling with the Labour Party, even informally." She paused. "Mr. Donald and Ms. Fitzsimons send their regards. They appreciate what you’ve achieved here with Socialist Causes and are sorry they couldn't attend today." Wilson nodded respectfully, acknowledging the Green Party leaders' regards.

As he walked deeper into the building, Wilson checked one of the rooms set up for attendees to watch the broadcast from the fifth floor. To his surprise, he found an old man adjusting his glasses. “Well, fancy seeing you here, Mr. Douglas,” Wilson greeted his predecessor. “Isn’t this kind of event too reformist for you? I thought you retired from union life. Why are you here today?” He asked with genuine curiosity, looking at the man who had risen to prominence during the nationwide general strike of '79.

“Ha!” Ken Douglas cast a piercing glare at him. “Not like your continued babysitting of Labour will make them any different from the Nats nowadays.” He breathed out loudly before walking to the door. “Be too generous, and the neoliberal faction will take over.” Douglas said before leaving the room, leaving Wilson alone. After a moment of silence, Wilson sighed and looked at his watch, realizing he should be preparing for the keynote speech. He left the room and headed to the fifth floor. A message was received from his phone: 764 people will be attending today’s activities.

“Three, two, one, go!” Wilson’s earpiece informed him as he stood in the conference room in front of about 400 people. With a smile, he began his speech, a part of his work he most exceled. "Kia ora koutou katoa. Greetings to you all.” He paused, looking around. “Distinguished guests, fellow New Zealanders, and friends from across Aotearoa. Today, we gather to discuss a vision for New Zealand's future – one that builds upon our nation's proud tradition of social progress and seeks to create a more equitable and prosperous society for all.

New Zealand has long been at the forefront of social innovation. From being the first country to grant women the right to vote, to our comprehensive social welfare system, we have shown the world that it's possible to balance economic growth with social justice. Today, we stand at another crossroads, with the opportunity to further advance these principles and create an economy that truly works for everyone.

Socialist Causes envisions a future where economic democracy and social justice are not just ideals, but lived realities for all New Zealanders. We believe in harnessing the power of our markets while ensuring they serve the needs of all our people, from the bustling streets of Auckland to the farms of Canterbury, from the forests of Northland to the fjords of Southland.

We advocate for an economy where workers have a real stake in their enterprises, where democratic planning ensures that our resources are used sustainably and for the benefit of all. But let us be clear: we are not here to impose a foreign ideology. Rather, we seek to build upon the best of New Zealand's traditions – our commitment to fairness, our innovative spirit, and our deep connection to the land.

As President of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions, I've seen firsthand the power of collective action and the importance of workers' rights. Our vision of democratic socialism seeks to expand these principles, ensuring that every New Zealander has a voice in shaping our economic future.

We must also acknowledge our unique position as a bicultural nation, founded on the partnership of the Treaty of Waitangi. Any vision for our economic future must honor this partnership and work to address the ongoing inequalities faced by Māori communities.

As we proceed with today's discussions, let us keep in mind the unique strengths of our nation – our educated workforce, our pristine environment, our innovative businesses, and above all, our diverse and resilient people. These are the building blocks with which we can construct an economy that truly serves all New Zealanders.

Together, we can create a future where economic prosperity goes hand in hand with social justice, where our environment is protected for future generations, and where every New Zealander has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you. Kia ora." Wilson finished his speech which was followed by the round of enthusiastic applause.

However, amidst the cheer of the attendees, a sound cracked into his earpiece. ”Wilson, we’ve got a problem. You must come down now!” basedcnt​

 

[Basedcnt]

Anton Foljambe had just finished submitting a protest notice to the Auckland Council. He then called his main organiser, and said, "We're on."

6 hours later, and Anton would be able to see the shock on passersby faces' as his 3 hired buses came to a stop outside of 22 Fanshawe Street, Auckland. As the 100-odd members of the National Democratic Party disembarked, anyone standing around on the footpath would start to leave the area, seeing the many banners, signs and megaphones held by the NDP members.

Anton would look around the crowd and smile. "DOWN WITH SOCIALISM, NEW ZEALAND FOR REAL NEW ZEALANDERS!" he would scream into his loudhailer, starting the protest. His group of National Democratic Party members would join him in waving anti-socialist and anti-Thailand banners, signs and flags towards the Socialist Causes building.

As Anton looked around, he would be able to see protestors taking photos of vehicle licence plates, vandalising the Socialist Causes' building, and yelling slurs through the glass, towards the employees inside. Due to the extremely public nature of the protest, the New Zealand Police would be quickly called by disgruntled pedestrians and drivers to contain the protest and move the 3 buses, which were positioned to block the entire intersection.

A NZP squad car would be the first to respond about 10 minutes after the protestors had disembarked, and the Lance Corporal in the vehicle would balk at the size of the protest. In the next 10 minutes, another 4 squad cars, each with 2 Officers, would arrive and set up a perimeter around the protest. Due to New Zealand protest laws, the Officers would be unable to stop the demonstration (or move the buses), even if they could.

"These fuckin' socialist cowards," his fellow NDP member, Jackson Geneff, would yell into Anton's ear, barely surpassing the sound of 100 angry, white New Zealanders. Then to the building, "Come out and face us!"

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Wilson hurried out of the conference room while other attendees on the fifth floor remained engrossed in his speech. A few colleagues met him outside, leading him to the glass-front of the building, where a crowd was causing a disturbance. "What should we do, Wilson? It's those damn nationalists again!" one of them, Michael, grumbled, clearly frustrated.

"Calm down, Michael. We can't risk our public image. We can't rely on the unions this time. Let's head to the control room," Wilson replied, rushing to the third floor. In the minute it took to reach the control room, calls and texts flew between members of the organization. Inside, two security officers monitored the CCTV systems. Wilson noticed that all exits were locked.

By now, most people in the building were aware of the protest. About 200 Socialist Causes members and employees worked to calm the crowd inside and reassure them of their safety. Security officers in the control room contacted local law enforcement, requesting police protection for the building and the nearly 1,000 people inside. Meanwhile, employees on the lower floors recorded the protesters' actions.

Wilson rushed to the ground floor with his colleagues. "Michael, can you be the spokesperson? We need to condemn any acts of violence or vandalism. We must uphold peaceful dialogue and democratic processes at all costs." Michael nodded reassuringly and headed to the second floor. As Wilson reached the ground floor, many attendees were too focused on the protest to notice him. Some were recording evidence of any vandalism, harassment, or violence by the protesters.

Assuming the police had arrived and were aware of the security team's requests and information, two security officers went out to invite a liaison from law enforcement inside. Wilson approached the police officer. "Sir, this disruption is unacceptable!" he protested. Several prominent unionists and activists joined him. "We have an MP here, and nearly a thousand people are participating in a legal activity inside this building." The tension inside the building grew palpable.

basedcnt​

 

[Basedcnt]

In the time since the New Zealand Police had shown up, the NDP demonstration had stayed peaceful and mostly within the intersection of Fanshawe and Federal Street. The protest was continuing the same as before. Additionally, another 5 squad cars, each with 4 Officers, had arrived, and an AS355 Squirrel helicopter with an Armed Offenders Squad marksman would be hovering above. Officers from the Diplomatic Protection Squad would also be en-route due to a member of the New Zealand government being in the building. 2 St John Ambulances would also be at the scene, in the event of injuries.

Auckland City Police would have assigned an Inspector to control the protest, and he would enter the building at the invitation of the Socialist Causes security. A way would have to be cleared by some Officers, as the crowd of protestors had moved up against the walls and glass of the building facing Fanshawe Street.

Once inside, Inspector Wallen would follow the security to the CCTV/control room and would listen to Mr. Wilson's plea once there. He would reply,
"I understand your plight, sir. However, they are free to protest outside of the building, and " he would check his watch "should be moving them now, back and away from the walls in order to prevent further vandalism. You, yourself, should know that police intervention into a peaceful protest is extremely illegal."

Outside, a dozen officers had worked their way down the walls of 22 Fanshawe Street in order to stop any further vandalism by the NDP protestors. A balaclava-clad man, big and burly, would take a swing at a Police Constable, and hit him, fracturing his cheekbone. Half-a-dozen Officers, batons swinging, would knock him down, taking revenge for the unsubstantiated attack. They would then drag the perpetrator to an Ambulance, where he would be sat down, handcuffed and looked over by a paramedic. The Constable would also be taken to an Ambulance, and assessed.

Bossza007

 

[Owen]

Inside the Australian Consulate-General in Auckland, which was almost directly across the street from the new Socialist Causes Headquarters on Level 7 of the HSBC Tower between Quay Street and Customs Street West, the diplomats would notice commotion happening outside. They would hear the sound of the NZ Police helicopter buzzing above. They could also hear the protestors loudly chanting.

"Something's going on..." The Consul-General, Michael Crawford, would stand up and look outside the window, looking down towards Fanshawe Street past the AON Tower next door.

"Let's go have a little look..." Him and a couple of other diplomats would put on suit jackets and would head into the elevator, taking them down to the ground floor and out onto Little Albert Street. They would down that street to the intersection of Customs Street W/Fanshawe Street and would see the protestors on the next intersection over at Federal Street. They would stand out the front of the AON Tower, observing and watching the protests happen, obeying instructions of the NZ Police.

Bossza007 basedcnt

 

[Basedcnt]

An armed member of the Diplomatic Protection Squad would approach the Australian diplomats and kindly ask them to go back up to their building due to the volatile nature of the protest and how the Australians could be targeted due the NDP's leader, Anton Foljambe, having a public dislike for Australian Deputy Prime Minister Rudd.

Owen

 

[Bossza007]

After the police officer responded, Wilson nodded. "Yes, sir, but this clearly disrupts public order. Any demonstration must be peaceful, sir." A loud commotion outside stole his attention. Wilson saw a masked man hit the police officer, only to be knocked down himself. "Sir, this is getting more violent. Our law protects the right to assemble, but not to disturb the peace. I'm not sure they can legally close the road. Freedom of movement is a right we must protect, sir," Wilson said calmly. Despite the chaos outside, members and employees began guiding attendees back to the event.

Inside, Wilson and his team tried to maintain control, but some attendees started casting sterner looks at the protesters. The police officer inside faced questions about the safety of private vehicles outside. MP Bradford approached Wilson with a serious look. "Mr. Wilson, I doubt folks here will be kind to the nationalists outside." She glanced around warily, noticing some attendees forming into groups. "This is turning into an ideological struggle, Mr. Wilson. I don't think Mr. Douglas will defuse the tension. The last time we had an ideological clash, he brought three hundred thousand people on strike." She sighed and walked away to rejoin the event on other floors.

Most attendees had moved to other floors, leaving about 160 people on the ground floor. Wilson swore he saw Douglas among the crowd. Some members tried to calm the remaining attendees and urged them to go upstairs, but most efforts were in vain. A woman in a Socialist Causes shirt approached Wilson with a concerned look. “Wilson, we have a problem.” She hesitated. “The attendees won’t go upstairs, but that’s not the main issue. They’re trying to go outside, and Mr. Douglas seems to be urging them to act decisively. You must do something.” She sighed.

Wilson nodded solemnly, observing the increasingly restless crowd. They started shouting, and some approached the glass wall to express their dissent to the protesters outside. Wilson approached the police officer again. “Sir, I’m concerned the situation is getting out of hand.” Several loud bangs echoed as he spoke. “We need to deescalate before—” A final loud bang turned into the piercing sound of breaking glass. Wilson quickly turned to see the entrance door breached, with many rushing outside.

Around 140 people from inside the building then formed a shield in front of the entrance, facing the nationalist protesters. Shouts erupted. “You are all fascists! Your nationalism is just a product of capitalism and bourgeois ideology!” Others cheered in agreement.

basedcnt​

 

[Owen]

The Consul-General was well aware of his human rights in New Zealand, whilst police could certainly move people on from an area, they couldn't instruct them to go to a specific place. Him and the diplomats would move away from the area, walking west along Customs Street West which would gradually slope down and out of sight of the Fanshawe Street/Federal Street protestors. Not far down they would see the multistorey parking lot across from Fanshawe Street, the Consul-General would open the external door to the stairwell inside the parking lot. He wasn't too concerned about his personal security. Whilst the nationalist movement in New Zealand may have had a dislike of the Labor Government, the Australian Consul-General in Auckland was hardly a person most people knew what their name was, let alone what they looked like.

"In here" He would usher to his diplomats. They would begin climbing a lot of stairs, eventually reaching the top level of this carpark, the 7th floor. The carpark has an open air design, with views directly from the carpark to 22 Fanshawe Street.

Carpark on the left, 22 Fanshawe Street on the right.​

 

[Basedcnt]

(OOC: TIL clicking control and enter posted the message)

The DPS officer would shrug and say, "Thank you sir, have a good day." He would then re-join his perimeter guard.

Once the diplomats had reached the top of the carpark, they would be able to see a 1News TV crew set up and recording the events on the street below.

Owen

The Inspector inside would start talking into his radio, asking for more officers on-scene and for the current ones to form a better perimeter between the building - where the socialists were - and the nationalist protestors, and to arrest everyone on the street.

Simultaneously, Foljambe would be directing the NDP members to throw rocks and sticks at the socialists, now coming out from the building, and at some of the cars parked along Federal Street.

Heeding the Inspector's instructions, the Sergeants in command would establish a wall of officers in between the offending sides, and a dozen officers would start clearing their way - or arresting their way - through the 100 NDP members. Another 4 squad cars would come racing from other duties, and the extra 16 officers would contribute to the arresting efforts. Several fights would break out, but in all instances NZP officers would come out victorious, and many would be tased, and all arrested. Unless attacked, the Police would not arrest any socialists; they would, however, gently wack any that came near them with their baton.

By this time, many news agencies would be in place to record the events, as well as many civilians with tape recorders.

Bossza007