It Could Happen Here It Could Happen Here Weekly 209
Nov 22, 2025
Shereen Sekhari from the Journal of Palestine Studies brings valuable insights into Palestinian knowledge production, emphasizing its role in resisting erasure and shaping narratives. She discusses the surveillance of Palestinian scholars and the need for centering their voices. Alma Avaye, a former Condé Nast union leader, reveals the stark realities behind the layoffs at Teen Vogue and the retaliatory firings linked to union activities. Their conversation sheds light on labor struggles in media and the importance of solidarity in academia and journalism.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Bond Market as Gatekeeper For Cities
- City governments must fund large projects through the bond market, which hands leverage to banks and investors.
- That leverage can block or force austerity on progressive city programs despite tax hikes or plans.
Capital Growth Versus Redistribution
- Running a city requires preserving capitalist economic growth, which often conflicts with redistributive aims.
- Nia Wong notes mayors face the choice between workers' interests and capital's profit imperative.
Police Power Shapes City Politics
- Police are semi-autonomous political actors whose loyalty and threats shape what elected officials can achieve.
- Nia Wong warns police resistance can topple progressive mayors or sabotage policy through political pressure or violence.