On Saturday 21 October, Sheffield Transformed is hosting a workshop that will explore how left-wing activists and politicians in 1980s Sheffield attempted to resist the dominance of Thatcherism and implement their own political ideas.

During the 1980s, the term ‘Socialist Republic of South Yorkshire’ was coined to describe the region's left-wing political culture. With contributions from historians and local campaigners, this workshop will examine the left-wing, trade union, feminist, and anti-racist activism that made up the Socialist Republic.

Through presentations and group discussion, we'll examine the extent to which there was a concerted and successful attempt to build a left-wing alternative to Thatcherite ideology in Sheffield. We'll discuss what we can learn from this pivotal period in political history and how we can apply it to our present situation.

Tickets are free but, as Sheffield Transformed has no regular source of funding, any donations will help us to host future events.

Thank you to GMB, NEU, the Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign, Sheffield Trades Council, UCU and Unite for generously supporting this event.

Guest speakers

• Sheena Clarke – local councillor from period

• Damon Fairclough – writer and photographer

• Kate Flannery – local activist

• Sarah Kenny – historian

• Daisy Payling – historian

• Anandi Ramamurthy – academic

• Sheffield Feminist Archive – volunteer-run archival project

Venue

Broomhall Centre, Broomspring Lane, Sheffield S10 2FD.

The venue is close to tram stops, bus stops and free on-street car parking. Free refreshments will be available.

Schedule

• Doors open: 12:30pm

• Event begins: 1pm

• Event ends: 5pm

• Doors close: 5:30pm

Session running order

1. Sheffield Council and the Left

2. Liberation Movements

3. Youth Culture

4. Group Workshop

Access the detailed event programme including links and references for further reading:

Accessibility

Broomhall Centre has good wheelchair accessibility and the entire event will take place on the ground floor of the building. There are men’s, women’s and an accessible unisex toilet with baby-changing facilities. There will be a PA system in place to amplify speakers. Each session will last no longer than an hour and 15-20 minute rest breaks will take place between sessions.

If you have any concerns or questions with regards to accessibility, please email us.