The Greens’ Gorton and Denton by-election win was about inclusion — not sectarianism
The Greens’ Gorton and Denton by-election win was about inclusion — not sectarianism
What a historic night it was. Not merely because the Green Party secured its first parliamentary by-election victory in Gorton and Denton, but because it shattered a long-standing Labour stronghold that had previously enjoyed a majority of more than 13,000 votes. The result marked a pivotal moment, proving that a new political approach can resonate across communities.
For me, this win transcends the immediate triumph. It’s a landmark for the North of England, where we’ve finally elected a Green MP. Yet, this success is part of a broader shift. The campaign demonstrated that politics can move beyond division, embracing unity and trust in a way that feels authentic.
Central to this victory was the message we conveyed: hope over hostility, and inclusion over exclusion. In a country often divided by rhetoric, we reminded voters that their voices matter, regardless of background or identity. This wasn’t just a campaign about policies or a single candidate—it was a movement.
A language of connection
Politics in the UK has traditionally relied on a narrow, Westminster-centric narrative, often delivered in English that feels distant to many. Reform’s candidate, Matt Goodwin, exemplified this style, speaking in a language that resonates with those from southern England, but overlooks the rich diversity of other regions.
However, in areas like Gorton and Denton, where nearly 40% of residents identify as Muslim and many grow up speaking languages like Urdu, Bangla, or Arabic, this approach fell short. Our campaign adapted by communicating in the languages people use at home—figuratively and literally. This ensured that every voter could connect with our message on a personal level.
“In a democracy, language should never be a barrier to participation; it should be a bridge.”
By creating materials in multiple languages, including a viral Urdu video, we aimed to reflect the lived realities of the community. This wasn’t a superficial tactic but a genuine effort to ensure representation and respect for all voices. The result? A 26.5% shift in support toward the Greens.
Learning from global models
Our strategy echoes successes seen abroad. For instance, Zohran Mamdani’s campaign in New York used Arabic, Spanish, and Urdu videos to engage communities typically ignored by mainstream politics. His approach not only expanded political dialogue but also won him recognition within the Labour Party, even as some questioned its effectiveness.
“When we talk about rent, bills, the NHS, racism, or peace, those issues matter to everyone—whether they speak English at home or Punjabi, Urdu, Somali, or any other language.”
These efforts underscore a simple truth: multilingual outreach isn’t divisive—it’s inclusive. It invites people to participate in a way that mirrors their daily lives. By acknowledging the language and culture of the electorate, we built a foundation for trust and shared purpose.
This win in Gorton and Denton isn’t just about adding more seats to the Greens’ tally. It’s a testament to the power of inclusion, showing that when people feel seen and valued, they are more likely to believe in the possibility of a better future.
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