Dig: Solidarity w/ Jeremy Corbyn and Laleh Khalili
Aug 5, 2024
auto_awesome
Jeremy Corbyn, the former leader of the UK Labour Party, joins Laleh Khalili, an academic specializing in social movements, for a dynamic discussion on left-wing politics. They explore the urgent need for global solidarity, particularly in the Palestinian struggle against oppression. The speakers reflect on the relationship between Britain's imperial past and current internationalism, advocating for grassroots movements and addressing global economic inequalities. They also emphasize the intersection of art and activism, calling for collective action through poetry and digital engagement.
The podcast highlights the necessity for a radical political response to global crises, emphasizing the shift from mainstream politics towards transformative social movements.
Jeremy Corbyn's discussion on the historical evolution of internationalism illustrates the tension between national identity and anti-imperialist sentiments within the British left.
Laleh Khalili calls for building global solidarity among oppressed communities, critiquing established multilateral organizations for aligning with imperial interests rather than justice.
Deep dives
The Power of Radical Politics
Radical politics is highlighted as a crucial response to the deepening global crises affecting survival and liberation. The resurgence of social movements advocating for transformative change underscores the necessity for a shift away from mainstream politics towards more radical solutions. The formation of the Socialism Conference serves as a pivotal gathering for activists and organizers to exchange ideas, learn from historical struggles, and energize their collective efforts. This gathering aims to foster collaboration and innovation, reflecting the urgent need for radical approaches in contemporary political discourse.
Internationalism and the British Left
The discussion revolves around the historical evolution of internationalism within the British left, particularly in the context of empire. Jeremy Corbyn emphasizes the tension between national identity and a genuine internationalist approach, tracing the roots of leftist anti-imperialist sentiments back to early movements against slavery. The conversation also highlights the internal struggles within the Labour Party regarding its stance on imperialism and solidarity with colonial liberation efforts. Such historical reflections illustrate the complexity of navigating internationalism amidst nationalistic narratives, suggesting that antisemitism in the left context often obscures a unified opposition to imperialist policies.
Global Solidarity and Resistance
The need for building a genuine sense of global solidarity is emphasized, particularly in light of increasing state violence and the climate crisis. Lala Khalili stresses the importance of fostering connections and collective obligations among oppressed communities worldwide, challenging the notion of a singular 'international community.' The conversation also critiques established multilateral organizations, positing that they often align with imperial interests rather than serve the causes of justice and equality. A grassroots movement from below is proposed as essential to counteracting dominant narratives and structures that perpetuate marginalization.
The Interconnectedness of Global Struggles
The interconnected nature of global struggles is portrayed as a vital perspective for the left, particularly through the lens of the Palestinian struggle. Both speakers highlight that the resilience of the Palestinian people serves as a catalyst for broader international solidarity movements. They argue that the understanding of diverse global conflicts, such as those in the Congo and Sudan, reveals a pattern of resource exploitation and dispossession that reinforces the need for solidarity among oppressed peoples. This perspective encourages an analysis of how local issues are often tied to global systems of capital and power, prompting calls for unified action across various struggles.
Engaging with Political Education
The importance of political education in nurturing grassroots movements is underscored as a strategy to expand awareness and collective action. Both speakers contend that the left must improve its ability to articulate complex ideas in accessible formats, utilizing social media and community engagement effectively. They express that political education should not only occur in formal settings but should also include lived experiences and direct action, as these elements shape understanding and mobilization. The broader implication is that empowering individuals through education could create a more politically conscious and active society, capable of challenging oppressive systems.
Featuring Jeremy Corbyn and Laleh Khalili on internationalism and left-wing politics. A special Dig co-hosted with the Verso Podcast in front of a live London audience.