Pod Save America High Crimes and Piss-demeanors
112 snips
Jun 1, 2025 
Join Erik Loomis, an author and labor history professor, as he delves into the capacity for mass mobilization in the U.S. He questions whether liberals genuinely prioritize worker issues and discusses the challenges of fostering solidarity in an increasingly individualistic society. The conversation also highlights the impact of historical labor strikes, emphasizing the need for public support in advancing labor rights today. Loomis's insights encourage listeners to reflect on the dynamics of collective action and the evolution of worker dignity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
1919 Seattle Strike Unity
- The 1919 Seattle general strike started with non-radical unions supporting longshoremen over pay issues.
- The strike succeeded by engaging the community and ensuring essential services continued, but was stopped by scared national leadership.
Strikes Need Public Support
- Strikes only work if they maintain broad public support by showing community benefit.
- General strikes are illegal in the US and need messy, inclusive organizing including people with different political views.
Flint Sit-Down Strike Wins
- In 1937, Flint auto workers' sit-down strike stopped plant production and pressured GM for recognition.
- Michigan's governor refused to use force, leading GM to concede and sign a historic contract.
