Fw: What is ISKRA-list? An invite to join us!

["Jay Moore" <research@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

FYI.  Who are these folks?  Anybody know?  Should I join their List?

Best,
jay


----- Original Message -----
From: <SMye5@xxxxxxx>
To: <SMye5@xxxxxxx>
Sent: Wednesday, February 09, 2000 11:38 AM
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@xxxxxxx 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.