Astra Taylor, a writer and filmmaker known for co-founding The Debt Collective, and Leah Hunt-Hendrix, co-founder of Solidare Network, delve into their book on solidarity. They explore the historical significance of solidarity in social movements, emphasizing collective action's necessity to tackle global challenges. The discussion critiques individualism, highlights transformative solidarity, and reimagines it in public discourse. They also tackle immigration issues and the role of philanthropy in progressive movements, stressing the need for united efforts against systemic barriers.
Solidarity emphasizes interdependence and shared responsibility, countering the individualistic mindset prevalent in contemporary society.
Transformative solidarity aims to unite diverse groups through shared struggles, moving beyond divisive identities to foster inclusivity.
The labor movement plays a crucial role in cultivating solidarity and collective action, demonstrating its capacity for meaningful political and social change.
Deep dives
The Meaning and History of Solidarity
Solidarity is rooted in the concept of interdependence, signifying the connections we have with one another across differences rather than emphasizing a false unity. Often traced back to ancient Rome, the term originally related to shared debts, illustrating how individuals are bound to each other’s well-being. Modern interpretations evolved through various historical contexts, from the Napoleonic codes in France to the creation of welfare states shaped by social debt concepts. The authors argue that understanding solidarity is crucial in fostering a sense of shared responsibility and countering the individualistic ethos prevalent in society.
The Need for Transformative Solidarity
Transformative solidarity distinguishes itself from reactionary forms of solidarity by focusing on inclusive connections rather than divisive identities. Reactionary solidarity tends to create rigid boundaries, fostering an us vs. them mentality, while transformative solidarity encourages recognizing shared struggles and aspirations across diverse groups. Historical examples illustrate how the labor movement has been pivotal in fostering solidarity among varied demographics, showcasing that collective efforts can lead to social change. Activism rooted in transformative solidarity not only acknowledges conflict but seeks to transform it into opportunities for deeper connections among people.
The Role of Institutions in Solidarity
The labor movement is presented as a fundamental institution that can cultivate a culture of solidarity, acting as a vehicle for collective action rather than individualistic pursuits. The resurgence of union interest exemplifies a growing recognition among workers that collective organization is essential for secure livelihoods and social justice. The authors argue that strong unions should strive to raise the personal agency of their members while fostering solidarity across various identities and experiences. In doing so, unions have the potential to become bastions of collective effort, demonstrating how communal struggles can achieve meaningful political and social outcomes.
Challenges to Solidarity from Philanthropy and Capitalism
Philanthropy, while often framed as altruism, may undermine genuine solidarity by reinforcing existing power dynamics and relying on the whims of wealthy donors. The authors argue for a critical examination of the philanthropic sector, advocating for funding models that prioritize grassroots movements and mutual aid while minimizing top-down control. Alternatives to traditional philanthropy, such as community-driven funding, are emphasized for their potential to empower rather than impose. This shift in funding philosophies can create more genuine relationships between funders and activists, ultimately building a stronger foundation for transformative solidarity.
Solidarity in the Face of Crisis
Today’s pressing social challenges, such as climate change and rising authoritarianism, underscore the urgent need for collective action grounded in solidarity. The authors emphasize that solidarity serves not only as an ideological framework but as a practical necessity for fostering resilience in facing systemic crises. By envisioning a solidarity state, they argue for policies that reflect interdependence and shared responsibility over mere individualism. This perspective asserts that embracing solidarity is inherently beneficial—improving social conditions while reclaiming the narrative from divisive rhetoric that seeks to isolate and fragment communities.
Featuring Astra Taylor and Leah Hunt-Hendrix on their book Solidarity: The Past, Present, and Future of a World-Changing Idea. Guest hosted by Micah Uetricht.
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