Strategies for Building the Revolutionary Left

A Case Study of Prison Abolition in Aotearoa

Abstract

This paper outlines some potential strategies for growing revolutionary left organisations in Aotearoa, using the case study of People Against Prisons Aotearoa (PAPA), previously known as No Pride in Prisons. Lamusse provides a brief history of PAPA and outlines their experiences organising with the prison abolitionist organisation since its founding, sharing the lessons they learned about growing revolutionary left organisations in Aotearoa. They argue that to ensure democracy, transparency, and a fair division of labour, left organisations need clearly defined decision-making structures and roles. They demonstrate how, since PAPA transformed from a structureless organisation, it has not only become more democratic, but has also become a far more effective movement.