Ian Allinson is the author of Workers can Win (2022, Pluto Press). Grounded in Ian's 25 years of experience of leading strikes, the book is a practical guide to organising at work as a means to building working-class power.
At this event, Ian will lead participants through an introductory talk followed by a structured workshop. On the day we will cover topics like
- why Ian wrote the book and its core themes
-practical tips for organising at work in a variety of situations
- the political side of organising at work
-how established trade unions can help (and hinder) organising efforts
- What we mean by words like 'organising' and 'power'
The workshop is suitable for people at all levels of organising experience. We will try to match people into groups based on the kind of work they do, whether or not they are in a union, and if so what kind of union.
We will link our organising at work to wider political currents in society, including but not limited to areas like the liberation of Palestine, combating transphobia, climate transition, and a new left-wing political party and left leadership in the Greens.
This event is organised by the Leeds branch of revolutionary socialism in the 21st century (rs21), an ecosocialist, feminist, anti-racist and anti-imperialist organisation based in Britain. The Leeds branch of rs21 formed in the summer of 2025 and we are eager to work alongside anyone who shares our values.
Tickets for this event are pay as you feel
This workshop is pay as you feel, including free. We have some costs to try and make back, to cover venue hire, Ian's travel expenses, and printing, so donations of any amount are very much appreciated, but please don't worry if you can't or don't want to donate. No one will be turned away for lack of funds!
Practical stuff
The session will run from 3pm to 6pm. You'll get the most benefit if you come for the whole time, but it's OK to drop in and out.
We will provide hot drinks and snacks.
We are in Room 3, which is a smaller wheelchair accessible room at Swarthmore. For more information on venue accessibility visit their website.
If you have specific access needs you want help with, depending on what it is we recommend either contacting Swarthmore directly (Call: 0113 243 2210 Email: info@swarthmore.org.uk) or contacting us at rs21leeds@hotmail.com
Swarthmore is a 20 minute walk from Leeds Rail Station. Information about how to get to the venue by bicycle, bus and car is available on their website.
