Write a Post
Zack Polanski - Greater London
2024 British Local Government Election - London Assembly Member Candidate - May, 2, 2024
Electorate of Greater London - City Hall Greens - United Kingdom
Who is Zack Polanski?
Zack Polanski, born David Paulden on November 2, 1982, in Salford, Greater Manchester, has carved a distinctive path in British politics as the Deputy Leader of the Green Party of England and Wales since September 7, 2022, and a Londonwide member of the London Assembly since May 2021. His career has spanned various roles, from acting and hypnotherapy to significant political advocacy, reflecting a deep commitment to social and environmental issues.
Polanski's journey into politics was influenced by his diverse background and experiences. Initially involved with the Liberal Democrats, including a candidacy in the 2016 London Assembly election, he transitioned to the Green Party in 2017, driven by a desire for stronger environmental and democratic reforms.
His electoral success in 2021 as a London Assembly Member underscored his appeal and dedication to key issues, such as electoral reform, housing, and supporting London's creative sectors. His tenure in the London Assembly is notable for his advocacy on behalf of diverse communities, his work on environmental policies, and his efforts to promote a basic income.
Polanski's leadership roles, including chairing the Environment Committee and serving on several key committees, have enabled him to push for significant policy changes, such as the endorsement of the Climate and Ecological Emergency bill and campaigning against expansions that contribute to environmental degradation. Polanski's personal journey, including reclaiming his family surname to embrace his Jewish heritage and openly celebrating his LGBTQ+ identity, adds depth to his political narrative, emphasizing inclusivity and representation.
His previous careers, spanning the gig economy, theatre, and hypnotherapy, contribute to his unique perspective on the challenges facing Londoners, especially those in creative and precarious employment. As Deputy Leader of the Green Party, Polanski aims to leverage his experiences and achievements to further environmental and social justice at the heart of British politics.
His commitment to grassroots campaigning and collaboration with organizations like Make Votes Matter and Compass highlights his holistic approach to political activism. Despite controversies, such as his involvement in a hypnotherapy session reported by The Sun, Polanski's focus remains on advocating for progressive changes within London and beyond.
Living in Hackney and having studied in Wales and the US, Polanski embodies the diverse experiences and global outlook necessary for contemporary political leadership. His work in the London Assembly and as Deputy Leader of the Green Party reflects a dedication to making London a more equitable, sustainable, and inclusive city for all its residents.
What are Zack Polanski's Political Values?
The Green Party stands as a unique political entity that emphasizes an interconnected approach to social, environmental, and economic issues. This manifesto outlines the party’s commitment to transforming society for the betterment of both the planet and its inhabitants.
Social and Environmental Justice:
The party views social, economic, and environmental challenges as interconnected and believes that resolving one requires addressing them all together. Success is not solely measured by economic indicators but also by the quality of life, including personal freedom, social equity, health, and ecosystem health.
Biodiversity and Resource Conservation:
Humanity's survival is dependent on biodiversity and the sustainable use of finite physical resources. Every individual, including future generations and other species, has a right to basic material security.
Voluntary Cooperation:
A healthy society is built on voluntary cooperation among empowered individuals, without discrimination. Decisions should be made as close as possible to the affected individuals to promote accountability and participatory democracy.
Non-violent Conflict Resolution:
The party seeks non-violent solutions that consider minority and future generation interests. Change can be achieved through various methods, including lifestyle changes and direct action, as long as they align with core principles.
Interdependence with Nature:
Humans are part of and depend on the natural world, which has suffered significantly from human activities. Traditional political and economic approaches are seen as destructive, emphasizing the need for a shift from growth-driven policies to those focusing on sustainable well-being.
Diversity and Inclusivity:
Proposes a society where individuals coexist with nature and each other in mutually beneficial ways, stressing empowerment over dominance. Values the diversity of human relationships with each other and the environment, advocating for a balance of various life-enhancing processes.
Sustainable Society:
All policies and actions should aim for sustainability, ensuring that resource use and environmental impacts are within the planet’s capacity to handle indefinitely. Calls for urgent action to address climate change and biodiversity loss, emphasizing ecological and egalitarian solutions.
Economic Restructuring:
Advocates for replacing GDP with indicators that reflect true progress towards ecological sustainability and human well-being.Supports the enhancement of rights and freedoms, balancing individual actions with the health of society and the planet.
Democratic Reform:
Promotes more democratic processes at all levels of government and society to ensure fair and inclusive decision-making. Supports measures to address inequality and ensure all citizens have access to necessary resources without compromising ecological integrity.
Cultural Change:
Encourages a shift in cultural values towards sustainability, cooperation, and respect for diversity. Engages in both global initiatives and local actions to implement its principles, aiming for a broad-based transformation across all sectors of society.
The Green Party's manifesto presents a radical rethinking of political, social, and economic systems, aiming to create a fair, sustainable society that respects the interconnected nature of global challenges. Through a combination of policy reform, cultural change, and grassroots action, the party seeks to redefine progress and ensure a viable future for all inhabitants of the planet.
