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
It was a night that redefined the political landscape. The Green Party secured its first parliamentary by-election victory in Gorton and Denton, a feat that shattered a Labour stronghold with a margin exceeding 13,000 votes. Beyond the numerical triumph, this result symbolized a shift in how politics can engage with diverse communities.
The win marked a pivotal moment, as the party returned its first representative to Parliament in the North of England. Yet, this achievement transcends mere milestones. It signaled the potential for a new political paradigm—one that prioritizes unity over division, and hope over hostility.
Speaking directly to voters in their native tongues became a cornerstone of the campaign. While traditional English rhetoric dominated Westminster, the Greens adapted their messaging to reflect the lived realities of residents in Gorton and Denton, where nearly 40% identify as Muslim and many grow up with languages like Urdu, Bangla, or Arabic at home.
Language, in this context, was not just a tool but a bridge. Campaign materials were translated into multiple languages, including a viral Urdu video that resonated deeply with local communities. This wasn’t a superficial attempt to appeal to a niche audience; it was a deliberate effort to ensure every voice felt represented.
You can’t put a price on that – even as the sore losers in Labour and Reform try and invalidate our inclusive campaign as something sinister.
Some critics, particularly those who lost the election like Reform’s Matt Goodwin from Kent, labeled the approach as divisive or ‘sectarian.’ But their interpretation overlooked the true intent: to expand political dialogue, not to exclude.
Global examples highlight the power of multilingual outreach. In New York, Zohran Mamdani’s success hinged on campaign videos in Arabic, Spanish, and Urdu, which connected with communities often sidelined by mainstream politics. This strategy, praised by Labour allies, proved that language inclusivity strengthens, rather than fractures, democratic engagement.
Issues like rent, bills, the NHS, racism, and peace mattered equally to all, regardless of whether they spoke English or Punjabi, Somali, or any other language. The Greens’ campaign affirmed that every voice holds value, and every concern is worth hearing.
By representing Gorton and Denton’s unique identity, the Greens demonstrated their commitment to building a politics that empowers diversity, rather than marginalizes it. This victory isn’t just about increasing parliamentary representation—it’s about proving that inclusion can drive meaningful change.
In a democracy, language should never be a barrier. It should be a means of connection, ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, feels part of the conversation. The Greens’ campaign showed that when people see their experiences reflected, they are more likely to believe in the possibility of a better future.
