Dear fellow Scots,
We invite all those who believe in building a better Scotland to join us in this Convention for Independence. We call upon the leaders of the Yes movement, both past and present, to step up to the plate and share their knowledge, experience, and vision for our future. We also invite the experts and specialists from various fields to come forward and contribute their unique perspectives on how we can create a Scotland that truly works for everyone.
We know that there are many people out there who are passionate about the future of our nation, and we believe that now is the time to come together and make our voices heard. We are not just talking about politicians and activists - we are talking about anyone who cares about Scotland and wants to see us flourish. Let us come together with open hearts and minds, united in our common goal of a Scotland that is fair, just, and prosperous. Let us harness the power of our collective wisdom, creativity, and resilience to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.
So if you are a teacher, a nurse, a farmer, a scientist, a business owner, or a concerned citizen, we need you. We need your ideas, your energy, and your enthusiasm. We need your love for Scotland.
And remember, while we may have our differences, we are all part of the same community, bound together by our love for this beautiful country and its people. So let's come together, have some laughs, share some stories, and most importantly, let's get to work.
Let's show the world what we can achieve when we work together. Let's build a better Scotland.
With love and hope, We look forward to seeing you all at the Convention for Independence, where together, we will build a better Scotland.
As we embark on this journey together, it is important to acknowledge the challenges we face as a nation. Our country has long been subjected to economic and political systems that have failed to serve the needs of our people. We have witnessed rising inequality, environmental degradation, and a lack of accountability from those in power. It is time for us to take control of our own destiny and create a system that truly represents the interests of all Scots.
Through this conference, we will explore a range of issues and ideas that are fundamental to building a better Scotland. From promoting social and economic justice to protecting our environment and strengthening our communities, we will delve into the critical issues that will shape our future.
We have a unique opportunity to create a new, more equitable society that is grounded in the values of democracy, justice, and sustainability. Let us work together to build a future that is bright and inclusive, where every Scot can thrive and fulfil their potential.
We gather here not just to talk about independence, but to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, to social justice, to human dignity, and to the common good. We gather here to envision a Scotland that is free from oppression, from poverty, from discrimination, and from violence. We gather here to celebrate our diversity, our creativity, and our resilience.
Today, we must ask ourselves some fundamental questions. What kind of Scotland do we want to live in? What values do we want to uphold? What priorities do we want to pursue? What challenges do we want to address? And most importantly, how can we work together to make our dreams a reality?
Independence is not just about changing flags or passports. It is about changing the rules of the game. It is about empowering our people, our communities, and our institutions. It is about challenging the status quo and creating a new social contract. It is about asserting our sovereignty and our responsibility. It is about building a better world.
We need to be bold, but we also need to be humble. We need to listen to each other, to learn from each other, and to respect each other. We need to acknowledge the past, to honour the present, and to embrace the future. We need to be inclusive, transparent, and accountable. We need to be visionary, but also pragmatic. We need to be passionate, but also compassionate.
So let us begin this journey together, with hope, with courage, and with determination. Let us explore the possibilities, the challenges, and the solutions. Let us engage in constructive dialogue, in respectful debate, and in creative collaboration. Let us inspire each other, challenge each other, and support each other. Let us make history.
Proposed agenda for a 2-day conference/convention on independence:
Day 1:
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Registration and Welcome
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Opening Address and Keynote Speech
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Panel Discussion on the Importance of Community Empowerment and Social Enterprise
Here's an outline for a panel discussion on the importance of community empowerment and social enterprise:
Community Empowerment and Social Enterprise: Driving Local Development in Scotland
Moderator: [Name], [Position]
Panellists:
[Name], [Position], [Organization]
[Name], [Position], [Organization]
[Name], [Position], [Organization]
[Name], [Position], [Organization]
Introduction
:
The panel discussion will focus on the role of community empowerment and social enterprise in driving local development in Scotland. Panellists will share their insights and experiences on how these two concepts can create a more inclusive and sustainable economy that benefits all members of the community.
Discussion Questions:
What is the role of community empowerment in creating a more inclusive and sustainable economy in Scotland?
How can social enterprise contribute to local development in Scotland?
What are some successful examples of community-led social enterprise initiatives in Scotland?
What challenges do social enterprises face in Scotland, and how can they be addressed?
How can we promote and support the growth of social enterprise in Scotland?
Conclusion:
The panel discussion will conclude with a summary of key takeaways and recommendations for promoting community empowerment and social enterprise in Scotland. The insights gained from the discussion will help inform policies and initiatives that can create a more equitable and sustainable economy for all members of the Scottish community.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch Break and Networking
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Panel Discussion on Sustainable Development and Environmental Protection
Here is an outline for a discussion on sustainable development and environmental protection:
I. Introduction
Brief overview of the topic
Importance of sustainable development and environmental protection
II. Keynote speech
Expert in the field provides an overview of the current state of sustainable development and environmental protection in Scotland
Discusses challenges and opportunities for the future
Q&A session
III. Panel discussion
Experts in the field participate in a panel discussion on the topic
Each panellist presents their perspective and experiences
Discussion on challenges, opportunities, and potential solutions
Q&A session
IV. Case study presentation
A case study of a successful sustainable development or environmental protection project is presented
Discussion on how this project could be scaled up or replicated
V. Breakout sessions
Participants are divided into small groups for further discussion on specific aspects of sustainable development and environmental protection
Groups report back to the larger group with their findings and recommendations
VI. Conclusion
Recap of the key points discussed throughout the session
Next steps for furthering sustainable development and environmental protection in Scotland
Closing remarks
3:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Panel Discussion on Healthcare and Social Welfare
here's an outline for a discussion on Healthcare and Social Welfare:
Title: "Building a Comprehensive and Equitable Healthcare and Social Welfare System"
Moderator: [Name and brief introduction]
Panellists:
[Name and brief introduction]
[Name and brief introduction]
[Name and brief introduction]
Duration: 2 hours
Outline:
I. Introduction (10 minutes)
Brief overview of the importance of healthcare and social welfare systems in ensuring the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.
Introduction of panellists and their areas of expertise.
II. Current State of Healthcare and Social Welfare in Scotland (20 minutes)
Panellists will discuss the current state of healthcare and social welfare in Scotland, including any challenges, gaps, or successes.
Topics may include access to healthcare, funding, staffing, availability of resources, social welfare programs, etc.
III. Addressing Inequities and Disparities in Healthcare and Social Welfare (30 minutes)
Discussion on how to ensure that healthcare and social welfare systems are equitable and accessible to all individuals, regardless of income, race, gender, or other factors.
Topics may include reducing healthcare costs, increasing funding for social welfare programs, addressing healthcare and social welfare disparities in rural and remote areas, etc.
IV. Innovations and Future Directions in Healthcare and Social Welfare (30 minutes)
Panellists will discuss innovative approaches and technologies in healthcare and social welfare, as well as potential future directions for these fields.
Topics may include telemedicine, home healthcare, community-based healthcare, etc.
V. Questions and Answers (30 minutes)
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of the panellists.
Moderated by the discussion moderator.
VI. Closing Remarks (10 minutes)
Summary of key takeaways from the discussion.
Call to action for attendees to advocate for comprehensive and equitable healthcare and social welfare systems in Scotland.
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner Break and Networking
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Evening Session on Culture, Identity, and the Arts
This session is an opportunity to explore the unique cultural identity of Scotland and the role of the arts in promoting and preserving that identity. We will discuss the importance of supporting and promoting local artists, musicians, and writers, as well as the role of cultural institutions in preserving Scotland's rich cultural heritage. We will also explore the potential of the arts to bring communities together and promote social cohesion.
Panellists tonight include artists, writers, musicians, and cultural experts who have dedicated their lives to promoting and celebrating Scotland's culture and heritage. We will hear from them about their experiences, their visions for the future of Scottish culture, and their ideas for how we can continue to promote and celebrate our unique identity in a rapidly changing world.
We hope this session will inspire and encourage you to think about the role that culture, identity, and the arts can play in building a better Scotland. Thank you for joining us tonight, and we look forward to a lively and engaging discussion.
We must recognize that independence is not an end in itself, but a means to a greater end: the creation of a society that is inclusive, sustainable, and truly democratic. This requires us to think creatively and innovatively about how we can build a society that is based on the principles of fairness, equality, and social responsibility.
As we move forward, we must also be mindful of the challenges that lie ahead. We must be prepared to work hard and make difficult choices, and to be patient and persistent in our efforts to build a better Scotland. But if we remain committed to our vision and to the principles that guide us, I am confident that we can achieve great things and create a Scotland that is truly worthy of its people.
Day 2:
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Recap of Day 1 and Keynote Speech
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Panel Discussion on Education and Economic Empowerment
Panel Discussion on Education and Economic Empowerment:
Moderator: [Name and Title]
Panellists:
[Name and Title]
[Name and Title]
[Name and Title]
Time: 1.5 hours
Outline:
I. Introduction (5 minutes)
Moderator introduces the topic and the panellists
Brief explanation of the purpose of the panel
II. Panel Discussion (60 minutes)
Each panellist provides their perspective on the following questions:
How can education be improved to promote economic empowerment for individuals and communities?
What policies or initiatives should be implemented to create a more equitable economic system?
How can education and economic empowerment be used to address societal issues such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment?
III. Q&A Session
Moderator will ask the audience for questions for the panellists
Each panellist has an opportunity to respond to the questions
IV. Closing Remarks (5 minutes)
Moderator summarises the key points discussed during the panel
Panellists are given an opportunity to provide closing remarks
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Panel Discussion on Housing and Urban Planning
The discussion on housing and urban planning would focus on addressing the issue of affordable and sustainable housing for all Scots. The panellists would discuss the challenges facing the housing sector and explore possible solutions to ensure that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and quality housing.
Topics that could be covered during this discussion include:
The role of social housing in providing affordable and secure housing
The need for innovative approaches to housing, such as community land trusts and cooperative housing models
Strategies to address the shortage of affordable housing in urban areas
The importance of sustainable building practices and design in reducing environmental impact and improving the health and well-being of residents
The role of urban planning in creating livable and inclusive communities
Addressing issues of homelessness and housing insecurity
Supporting the growth of local housing initiatives and community-led housing projects.
The panellists could include experts in housing policy, urban planning, sustainable building design, and representatives from community housing organisations. The discussion could be moderated by a skilled facilitator who can ensure that diverse perspectives are heard and that the conversation remains focused and constructive.
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Lunch Break and Networking
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Panel Discussion on Democracy and Political Participation
Here is an outline for a Panel Discussion on Democracy and Political Participation:
I. Introduction
Brief overview of the importance of democracy and political participation in building a stronger and more inclusive Scotland
II. Panellists
Introduce the panellists and their expertise in the field
Encourage panellists to share their perspectives on democracy and political participation
III. Questions and Discussion
Ask questions to prompt discussion among the panellists, such as:
What are the biggest barriers to political participation in Scotland?
How can we ensure that all voices are heard in the political process?
What role can technology play in increasing political engagement?
How can we ensure that marginalised communities have a seat at the table?
Open up the discussion to audience questions and comments
IV. Closing Remarks
Summarise the key points made during the discussion
Encourage attendees to continue the conversation on democracy and political participation in their own communities
Thank the panellists and attendees for their participation.
Note: The outline can be adjusted based on the length of the panel discussion, the number of panellists, and the specific questions and topics to be addressed.
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Panel Discussion on International Relations and Foreign Policy
Here is an outline for a panel discussion on international relations and foreign policy:
Title: "Building a New Scotland: International Relations and Foreign Policy"
Moderator: [Name]
Panellists:
[Name], international relations expert
[Name], foreign policy analyst
[Name], political scientist
Introduction:
The discussion will focus on the role of Scotland in the international community and its foreign policy priorities in a post-independence context.
Topics:
Diplomatic Relations and Membership in International Organizations
What should be Scotland's approach to diplomatic relations with other countries?
What international organisations should Scotland seek membership in, and what benefits can it gain from membership?
Security and Defense Policy
How should Scotland address its defence needs in a post-independence context?
What should be Scotland's position on international security issues, such as arms control, disarmament, and conflict resolution?
Trade and Economic Policy
How can Scotland leverage its economic strengths to build strong trade relationships with other countries?
What should be Scotland's approach to foreign investment and economic partnerships?
Humanitarian and Development Assistance
What role should Scotland play in providing humanitarian assistance and promoting development in other countries?
How can Scotland work with international partners to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change?
Conclusion:
The panellists will provide their perspectives on these topics and engage in a discussion with the audience to explore the opportunities and challenges for Scotland's international relations and foreign policy.
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner Break and Networking
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Closing Session and Next Steps for Scottish Independence
The session will conclude with a call to action for all attendees and supporters of Scottish independence. Participants will be invited to share their ideas and commitments for advancing the movement and building a better future for Scotland.
The conference organisers will also present a draft plan of action for the independence movement, outlining specific goals and strategies for achieving independence in the coming years. Participants will be invited to provide feedback on the plan and contribute their own ideas and suggestions.
The closing session will aim to inspire and energise attendees, and to provide a clear roadmap for the next phase of the independence movement. Together, we can build a stronger, fairer, and more democratic Scotland.
We want to stress that this is just an outline proposal for a two-day conference on Scottish independence. However, we believe that this conference will serve as a starting point for future discussions and collaborations. As such, we fully anticipate that this conference will be extended to a week-long event.
The People's Assembly’s ultimate goal is to create a platform for continuous engagement, so that we can work together to build a better Scotland for all its citizens.
This agenda allows for longer panel discussions and ample networking time, while still covering a range of topics related to building a better Scotland through independence.
Here are some suggested policy-based questions for attendees to consider during the conference:
What policies can be implemented to support the growth of social enterprises in Scotland?
How can we ensure that diversity and inclusion are prioritised in all areas of Scottish society?
What initiatives can be put in place to encourage intergenerational solidarity in our communities?
What steps can we take to make tourism in Scotland more sustainable and environmentally friendly?
How can we support the development of community-led renewable energy projects in Scotland?
What policies can be implemented to support the growth of worker cooperatives in Scotland?
How can we ensure that land is used in the interests of local communities rather than private interests?
What measures can be put in place to increase access to legal services and support for all Scots?
How can we combat social isolation and loneliness in Scotland through community-led initiatives?
What policies can be implemented to reduce waste and increase recycling rates in Scotland?
How can we support community-led initiatives to address climate change in Scotland?
What steps can be taken to promote public health and wellbeing through community-led initiatives in Scotland?
How can we increase access to affordable and high-quality education for all Scots?
What policies can be implemented to promote sustainable forestry practices in Scotland?
How can we support community-led initiatives to promote biodiversity in Scotland?
What steps can be taken to promote community-based healthcare in Scotland?
How can we increase access to affordable and accessible childcare in Scotland?
What measures can be put in place to promote and support local transport initiatives in Scotland?
How can we support community-led initiatives to promote local agriculture and fishing in Scotland?
What policies can be implemented to support the mental health and wellbeing of Scots?
What policies should be implemented to address the issue of income inequality in Scotland?
How can we ensure that all Scots have access to high-quality and affordable healthcare?
What measures should be taken to address the issue of food insecurity in Scotland?
What policies can be implemented to promote sustainable tourism in Scotland?
How can we increase access to affordable and reliable public transportation in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to address the issue of climate change in Scotland?
How can we promote the growth of the renewable energy sector in Scotland?
What measures can be taken to promote sustainable agriculture in Scotland?
How can we ensure that all Scots have access to high-quality and affordable education?
What policies can be implemented to promote gender equality in Scotland?
How can we address the issue of violence against women and girls in Scotland?
What measures should be taken to promote mental health and wellbeing in Scotland?
How can we ensure that all Scots have access to affordable and secure housing?
What policies can be implemented to address the issue of homelessness in Scotland?
How can we promote the growth of the social enterprise sector in Scotland?
What measures can be taken to promote social inclusion and diversity in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to address the issue of substance abuse in Scotland?
How can we promote the growth of the arts and cultural sector in Scotland?
What measures can be taken to promote community engagement and participation in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to promote access to justice for all Scots?
What measures do you think should be taken to address income inequality in Scotland?
How can Scotland best support its ageing population while ensuring that younger generations have access to the resources they need to thrive?
What policies should be put in place to support small businesses and entrepreneurs in Scotland?
How can Scotland ensure that all citizens have access to high-quality healthcare, regardless of their income or social status?
What steps should be taken to address climate change in Scotland, and how can individuals and communities contribute to these efforts?
What measures can be taken to promote sustainable agriculture and reduce Scotland's reliance on imported food?
How can Scotland best support its rural communities and address issues such as depopulation and lack of services?
What policies can be implemented to ensure that Scotland's natural resources are protected and managed sustainably?
How can Scotland best support its creative industries, including music, film, and art?
What steps can be taken to promote education and lifelong learning in Scotland, and ensure that everyone has access to quality education opportunities?
What measures can be taken to promote gender equality and combat discrimination in all forms?
How can Scotland address issues of social isolation and loneliness, particularly among older adults?
What policies should be put in place to address mental health issues and provide support to those who need it?
What steps can be taken to promote active transportation and reduce reliance on cars in Scotland's cities and towns?
What measures can be taken to promote renewable energy production and reduce Scotland's reliance on fossil fuels?
How can Scotland best support its tourism industry while minimising its environmental impact?
What policies can be put in place to ensure that all Scots have access to affordable and quality housing?
How can Scotland best support its immigrant and refugee populations, and ensure that they are welcomed and integrated into Scottish society?
What measures can be taken to promote diversity and inclusion in all areas of Scottish life?
What policies can be implemented to ensure that Scotland's justice system is fair and accessible to all?
How can Scotland promote social justice and address issues of poverty and deprivation?
What steps can be taken to promote civic engagement and encourage more people to participate in Scottish democracy?
What policies can be put in place to address issues of addiction and substance abuse?
How can Scotland ensure that its young people have access to quality education and employment opportunities?
What measures can be taken to address Scotland's ageing infrastructure and ensure that it is modernised and sustainable for the future?
How can Scotland best support its creative industries, including music, film, and art?
What policies should be put in place to support the growth of social enterprise in Scotland?
How can Scotland best support its fishing industry and promote sustainable fishing practices?
What steps can be taken to promote the use of renewable energy in Scotland's transportation sector?
What policies can be put in place to support the development of community land trusts and ensure that land is used in the interests of local communities?
How can Scotland best support its rural communities and address issues such as depopulation and lack of services?
What measures can be taken to address Scotland's aging population and ensure that older adults are supported and valued?
How can Scotland promote sustainable tourism and ensure that the industry benefits local communities?
What policies can be implemented to ensure that all Scots have access to affordable and quality healthcare?
How can Scotland best support its indigenous and minority communities, and ensure that their voices are heard and valued?
What steps can be taken to promote active citizenship and encourage more people to participate in their local communities?
What policies do you think should be implemented to promote affordable housing for all in Scotland?
How can social enterprises be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What measures should be taken to address discrimination and promote inclusion for all Scots?
How can intergenerational solidarity be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What actions should be taken to promote sustainable tourism and reduce the environmental impact of tourism in Scotland?
How can community-led renewable energy projects be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What measures should be taken to promote community-based healthcare in Scotland?
How can local currencies be better promoted and supported in Scotland?
What actions should be taken to increase access to public transit and promote active transportation options such as walking and cycling in Scotland?
How can affordable and accessible childcare be better promoted and supported in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to ensure workers have greater control over their working conditions and a greater share of the benefits of economic growth in Scotland?
How can community land trusts be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What measures should be taken to increase access to legal services and support for all Scots?
How can community-led initiatives to combat social isolation and loneliness be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to reduce waste and increase recycling rates in Scotland?
How can community-led initiatives to address climate change be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What actions should be taken to support local agriculture and fishing in Scotland?
How can community-led initiatives to promote public health and wellbeing be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to increase access to affordable and high-quality education for all Scots?
How can community-led initiatives to promote sustainable forestry practices be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What measures should be taken to support the mental health and wellbeing of Scots?
How can community-led initiatives to promote active citizenship and democracy be better supported and promoted in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to promote biodiversity in Scotland?
What actions should be taken to ensure that all Scots have access to safe and affordable housing?
How can we better support and promote social enterprises in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to address discrimination and promote inclusion for all Scots?
How can we better promote and support intergenerational solidarity in Scotland?
What measures should be taken to reduce the environmental impact of tourism and promote responsible travel in Scotland?
How can we better support and promote community-led renewable energy projects in Scotland?
What actions should be taken to support the development of community health clinics and other community-led healthcare initiatives in Scotland?
How can we better promote and support the development of local currencies in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to increase access to public transit and promote active transportation options such as walking and cycling in Scotland?
How can we better support and promote affordable and accessible childcare in Scotland?
What actions should be taken to ensure that workers have greater control over their working conditions and a greater share of the benefits of economic growth in Scotland?
How can we better support and promote community land trusts in Scotland?
What measures should be taken to increase access to legal services and support for all Scots?
How can we better support and promote community-led initiatives to combat social isolation and loneliness in Scotland?
What policies should be implemented to reduce waste and increase recycling rates in Scotland?
How can we better support and promote community-led initiatives to address climate change in Scotland?
What actions should be taken to support local agriculture and fishing in Scotland?
These questions can be grouped into themes and presented in a form for attendees to fill out and provide feedback on their views and priorities. The form can be collected at the end of the conference or made available online for those who cannot attend in person.
Comments