I am currently in my first year at the University of Leeds, studying Politics and Parliamentary Studies. I officially became a party member in November 2016, but I have always been a Liberal Democrat at heart!
Last weekend was my first time at a party conference and I can honestly say it was one of the best weekends of my life. I did not really know what to expect, but I certainly did not expect to get to meet Nick Clegg on the first day! This was a pretty momentous occasion for me as you could call Nick my ‘Lib Dem hero’ given that he was the main reason I first became interested in the party.
My experience of conference undoubtedly proves that I joined the right party. What other party would have the unique event that is Glee Club? Slightly bizarre at first, but after a couple of G&T’s my (not so) secret love for karaoke shone through. Anyone who witnessed my attempted parody of “Rehab” by Amy Winehouse can vouch for this (along with the fact that I am a terrible singer).
But what really made my time at Conference so enjoyable was my fellow party members who were all so welcoming. The weekend was marked by a friendly atmosphere, a strong sense of unity, solidarity and, despite Brexit, a positive and pro-active attitude towards the future. You can’t imagine the Tory or Labour conferences being as friendly or united.
Furthermore, being able to vote on policy motions was really engaging and made me feel like my opinions mattered. This is especially important at a time when democracy is under threat from nationalism and many people’s voices are being ignored by the government. Although there are sometimes disagreements over policy motions, it is our shared liberal values of tolerance and patriotism that unites us and make me proud to say that I am a Liberal Democrat.
I cannot wait till the Autumn party conference in Bournemouth and, as it is a longer conference, I hope to take part in some training sessions, which I was sadly not able to do this conference due to clashes.
Tim Farron’s final speech had me in tears in the end and was the highlight of a hugely inspiring weekend. I promise the tears were not just a result of having only had 3 hours sleep the night before, but because I have finally found a party that I wholeheartedly support and gives me hope for a better future. Hence, my renewed determination to get involved in the party and help in whatever way I can, starting with the Manchester Gorton by- election!
* Rebecca Yates is a new member of the Liberal Democrats and is studying Politics and Parliamentary Studies in Leeds
