Democratic Socialists to stand in Newcastle
By Shane Bentley
NEWCASTLE — The Democratic Socialists have announced that they will stand Dr Kamala Emanuel for the seat of Newcastle in the upcoming state elections. Emanuel, a 24-year-old doctor active in the region's women's movement, will campaign on a wide range of issues including the environment, real job creation, free education and women's rights.
In particular, the Democratic Socialists' campaign calls for the repeal of all anti-abortion laws contained in the NSW Crimes Act. While the overwhelming majority of Australians support a woman's right to choose, abortion still remains on the criminal code in NSW.
Emanuel points to the role that the "conscience vote" has played in the present state of affairs. "The Liberals, ALP and even the Greens have a 'conscience vote' on the issue of decriminalising abortion. What this has meant in practice is that women have no commitment from these parties on their right to choose", she told Green Left Weekly.
"While the Democratic Socialists support the limited services that are currently available, we also urge people to join the campaign to remove abortion from the criminal code. While women are denied control of their own bodies, they are denied the fundamental right to control their own lives."
To get involved with the Democratic Socialist campaign, call (049) 265 328.