Standing Together for Immigrant Rights, Arizona's People's Primary & the SAG-AFTRA Breakthrough

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you an inspiring overview of nationwide solidarity for immigrant rights and the fight against oppressive immigration policies. We start in Des Moines, Iowa, where over 100 residents gathered to stand in unity with Los Angeles protesters opposing ICE raids and mass deportations. Their powerful message emphasizes that compassion and justice must guide our national immigration approach, reflecting a growing consensus that America thrives on inclusivity and respect for human rights.

Next, we travel to Oakland, California, where faith leaders and community members held an interfaith vigil, highlighting the moral imperative to protect vulnerable populations. In Burlington, Vermont, rally-goers echoed these sentiments, calling for humane treatment of immigrants everywhere. These peaceful assemblies across the country showcase a collective determination to resist policies that divide families and sow fear.

On the ground in Los Angeles, residents like Iman Shervington and Uyen share heartfelt stories of resilience amid anxiety from ICE raids. Their experiences underscore the power of community support and the hope that emerges when people unite for change, despite facing aggressive responses from authorities.

We also address the alarming federal response to these protests, as Democratic governors, including California's Gavin Newsom, condemn President Trump's deployment of the National Guard to confront peaceful demonstrators. This unprecedented federal intervention raises serious concerns about state authority and the potential erosion of public trust in law enforcement.

In a significant move for democracy, the Arizona Democratic Party has taken steps to protect primary elections from the influence of big money, committing to a people's primary policy that prioritizes ordinary voters over wealthy donors. This groundbreaking resolution aims to ensure that Democratic primaries are decided by grassroots voices, not the highest bidder, garnering support from national progressive leaders.

We also delve into the political fallout from Elon Musk's split with the Republican Party, which threatens GOP unity and has far-reaching implications for the upcoming elections. As Musk turns his firepower against Trump and GOP leaders, the potential for disruption within the party is palpable, providing a unique opportunity for progressive movements.

Listeners will also hear about a recent clash between Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and conservative pundit Riley Gaines over transgender athletes in sports. Biles advocates for empathy and inclusivity, urging a focus on fairness for all athletes.

Finally, we celebrate the tentative agreement reached between SAG-AFTRA and major video game companies, marking a significant step forward for voice actors amid the challenges posed by advancing AI technology. This agreement promises essential protections for performers, showcasing the power of solidarity and perseverance in the labor movement.

Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of community strength, activism, and the relentless pursuit of justice!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.

You can find more about this week's stories here:

https://www.kcci.com/article/standing-in-solidarity-iowans-protest-ice-immigration-policies-and-more-following-la-protests/65029427



https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/interfaith-vigil-the-bay-stands-with-la-held-in-oakland/



https://www.wcax.com/2025/06/11/burlington-rallygoers-express-solidarity-with-los-angeles-protesters/



https://news4sanantonio.com/news/nation-world/police-use-tear-gas-to-disperse-protestors-rallying-against-ice-in-solidarity-with-la



https://www.koin.com/news/politics/kotek-democratic-governors-call-trumps-use-of-californias-national-guard-an-alarming-abuse-of-power/



https://www.commondreams.org/news/arizona-democratic-party-billionaires



https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/06/elon-musk-gop-donald-trump-midterms-00391246



https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/5338393-simone-biles-riley-gaines-trans-athletes/



https://venturebeat.com/games/sag-aftra-actors-union-reaches-agreement-with-game-companies-to-stop-strike/



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Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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