David Green looks ahead to a weekend of developing connections and reflections on a range of challenges facing progressive activists in Scotland.
On the weekend of 1—3 November, the Popular Education Network will again be organising our annual residential retreat at Crianlarich. The weekend away gives us the chance to learn about and reflect on the themes and challenges that are most pressing. In escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life, it also gives us the time to reflect on our own role in the movement.
This year, the sessions we have organised are based loosely on the theme of 'democracy'. Amongst other sessions, we will be joined by Alastair Brian of The Ferret, who will explore the role of ‘fact-checking’ in the media and consider how social media can both help and hinder democracy. Another session being organised by comrades from the Jineologi Scotland and England Committee aims to consider the role of the ‘Militant Personality’ and how we foster the idea of the ‘democratic self’ in our organising.
The weekend also will give plenty time for socialising and forming deeper connections with those around us. Accommodation, food and transport is provided in the cost of the event, with discounted and free places available. You can find out more about the event, co-organisers, workshops and speakers on the PEN Scotland website here.
Our residential weekend is the highlight of our year, and aims to fulfil PEN Scotland’s central focus in creating open spaces for discussion and education, based around radical educational theory and methods. We hope to see you there!