RadioKate

Do you ever feel like there is something more that you could be doing to make a difference? I do. Instead of just talking about how “everything is on fire!”, could I actually do something to be part of the change that I want to see?

Ever since the Brexit referendum I’ve been cross with so many things. I’ve been frustrated with so many politicians. I’ve been sad at the way our country has behaved on the international stage and I want to do something to show that we’re not all like that. I want to show our friends in Europe that we’re not all just in it for ourselves – taking and taking and complaining at the same time.

But how? What can I do?

I’ve apologised for Brexit at passport control in Europe, I’ve taken time to explain the media and political environment that led to the referendum result so that confused European friends could try to get a better grasp on the situation. I’ve signed petitions, gone on marches, I even made a sign. But that’s not enough. I want to do more.

And so I got thinking… The European elections are in little over a month. The newly formed “Brexit Party” are crowing about standing for election and causing chaos in the European Parliament, so could I stand as an MEP and try to make a difference?

Politicians are “other people” though – right? I can’t be one of them – can I?

I mooted the idea on social media and people (albeit in my little bubble of lovely people) were supportive. I’d need to raise £5,000 for a deposit to stand. Crowd-sourcing has been suggested…

Is this a crazy idea?

Should I do it anyway?

It’s got to be better than getting frustrated and hoping for change – hasn’t it?

If I’m going to do this, I’m going to have to be quick and smart, and see what is possible very quickly. I’ve got to think whether I would want to stand independently or with a party. Almost certainly no chance of being elected as an unknown independent candidate surely? But I do want to make a difference…  Thoughts?