SAMANTHA RATNAM - What Does It Mean To Be Politically Untethered?

Untethered...with Clementine Ford

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This week, I’m joined by Samantha Ratnam, who resigned from her position as leader of the Victorian Greens to take on the increasingly precarious Labor seat of Wills in the forthcoming federal election. Samantha opens up about her journey as a woman of South Asian descent navigating the often rigid expectations of the political landscape. From her upbringing in Sri Lanka and England to her bold vision for substantive change, Samantha's story underscores the courage it takes to stay true to one's values amidst the pressures of incrementalism. As she campaigns for the federal seat of Wills, Samantha provides a deeply personal look into her motivations and the transformative power of bold leadership.

Our conversation also shifts to the evolving dynamics within Australian politics, particularly focusing on the complex relationship between the Australian Greens and the Labor Party. Highlighting the resignation of Fatima Payman over the Labor Party’s stance on Gaza, we discuss the critical need for genuine representation and the courage to voice diverse perspectives. Samantha and I touch on the significant yet often overlooked impact of younger generations, especially teenage girls, whose insights are crucial in shaping a more inclusive political future. This chapter shines a light on the importance of empowering these voices to foster a political environment that embraces true diversity.

Growing up as an identical twin and an immigrant in Australia adds another layer to Samantha’s unique perspective. We dive into the challenges of identity and belonging, from navigating the awkward teenage years to the influence of global events like the Sri Lankan civil war. Samantha shares poignant reflections on the twin experience, from the complexities of comparison to the broader themes of self-worth and individuality. This episode is a rich exploration of how personal identity intertwines with community activism, culminating in a powerful narrative about the interconnectedness of our paths and the collective wisdom necessary for meaningful change.

Follow Samantha on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samantharatnam/

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Chapters

1. SAMANTHA RATNAM - What Does It Mean To Be Politically Untethered? (00:00:00)

2. Navigating Political Inclusivity and Representation (00:07:33)

3. Teenage Girl Power and Identity (00:15:14)

4. Reflecting on Twin Identity and Politics (00:28:46)

5. Building a Caring and Courageous Community (00:37:31)