What is ISKRA-list? An invite to join us! (fwd)

---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Wed, 09 Feb 2000 11:38:50 -0500 (EST)
From: SMye5@aol.com
To: SMye5@aol.com
Subject: What is ISKRA-list?  An invite to join us!

Hi comrade,

       You will have received the last two examples of Iskra-list material 
today. If you are interested in workers struggles in Russia (and the ex 
-SU), 
and are also genuinely an anti-sectarian Marxist interested in helping 
prepare for a new October, then please read the short ISKRA aims below, and 
join our community.


INVITATION TO JOIN ISKRA--LIST

Hello Comrade …….

You are invited to join an e-mail discussion group called Iskra-list. 
Here's 
a description of its aims and political basis - and how to get on/off the 
list.

-------------
AIMS of Iskra-list

1- Iskra-list aims to bring together a variety of revolutionary Marxist 
circles, individuals and groups from all over the world who support the 
process towards a new 'October 1917' revolution, in Russia and ex-USSR 
countries. Lessons from our past demonstrate that any revolution in the 
next 
years must be supported with powerful international solidarity and the 
ability of workers in other countries to spread the revolution.

2- Iskra-list organises practical international solidarity with workers 
struggles in the region. In a world of deep revolutionary fragmentation, 
only 
conscious anti-sectarian collaboration amongst Marxists can assist 
revolution 
and genuine workers democracy. Deeds expose the truth behind words, as 
being 
determines consciousness.

3- Iskra-list discusses relevant theoretical questions such as; Russia in a 
new world of inter-imperialist rivalry; united front tactic; Marxist-bloc 
tactic; revolutionary movements in Russia; the role of trade unions, 
reformism and centrism; economic crisis; the revolutionary party; history 
of 
the Russian revolution, Bolshevism and the Soviet Union; etc.

4- Whether Iskra members are labelled, Communist, Stalinist, Trotskyist, 
Maoist, etc; the list generally bases itself on Lenin's Bolshevism, the 
Russian revolution of 1917; and at least the period of the Comintern whilst 
Lenin was alive. We base ourselves on this height of genuine Marxist unity, 
practice, theory and organisation. History from that point onwards is open 
to 
discussion. We also recognise that mistakes, some serious, were made by the 
Bolshevik leaders too.

5- Conduct is of genuine comradeship and anti-sectarianism based on the 
above. Differences should normally be expressed in terms of political 
characterisation on the question at hand, not in sectarian labelling, nor 
in 
general write-offs of this or that brand of Marxism, or of personal abuse. 
The moderator will give one private warning to those going over the top, 
then 
one warning publicly on the list. Third time means instant removal for a 
period decided by the moderator. Sexist, racist, ultra-nationalist, 
antisemitic or homophobic comments get the same treatment.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

If you choose to join, you will receive email messages from other 
Iskra-list 
members, and your own questions or comments will automatically be received 
by 
all list members.
 
You may join by visiting     http://www.onelist.com/subscribe/Iskra 

If you are not already a ONElist member, you will need to complete a quick 
and free registration process before joining the community.

When joining the community, you may choose to read messages via email or by 
visiting the ONElist Web site at      http://www.onelist.com/

If you do not wish to join the Iskra-list, please ignore this message.

In comradeship, 

Steve Myers - Iskra-list 

ps - alternatively, just inform me at SMye5@aol.com that you wish to join 
ISKRA-list, and I will do it for you. If you join this way, it would be 
nice 
to hear a little about who you are.