Jacobin Radio

Saverio Leopardi, a historian focused on the Palestinian left, joins Joel Beinin, an expert on Middle Eastern history, to dissect the vibrant yet tumultuous legacy of Palestinian radical movements. They explore the Palestinian left's significance during the First Intifada, the complexities of the PLO's internal dynamics, and the experience of Palestinian communism in Lebanon. The discussion illuminates how this rich history continues to shape cultural and political identities while revealing the socio-economic injustices faced during Lebanon's civil war.

Emil Draitser, a former Soviet satirist and author of 'Laughing All the Way to Freedom,' joins the conversation to share his experiences of escaping censorship in the USSR for the chaotic freedoms of 1970s America. He discusses how satire served as both resistance and survival during his time in the Soviet Union. Emil reflects on the stark contrasts between the acceptance of Cold War refugees and today's immigrant climate. Their discussion also touches on the uneasy dynamics of modern politics and the ongoing influence of Soviet culture on identity.

Jeet Heer, a Canadian journalist and national correspondent for The Nation, discusses the recent Canadian election, focusing on the Liberal Party's retention of power and the emerging Conservative threat. He dives into the complexities of Canada's political landscape, particularly the shift towards populism. Joining him is Natasha Piano, an Assistant Professor of Political Theory at UCLA, who explores elite theory through the lens of Italian thinkers. Together, they analyze the evolving dynamics of political accountability and the growing concerns around anti-American sentiment in Canada.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, the leader of La France Insoumise and author of 'Now, The People,' discusses the radical left's strategies to confront the growing far-right in France. He critiques the political landscape, emphasizing grassroots movements and the importance of unity among leftists. Mélenchon delves into the historical ties to fascism, the decline of traditional labor, and the need for reevaluating class dynamics within capitalism. He advocates for inclusive political strategies that respect individual beliefs while emphasizing collective action on pressing social issues.

The discussion dives into how the Democratic Party has distanced itself from the working class, revealing a troubling evolution since 1994. Key critiques highlight how neoliberal policies under leaders like Clinton and Obama alienated traditional voters. There's a sharp analysis of Obama's focus on healthcare over labor rights, showcasing a shift towards corporate interests. The tensions between progressive leaders like Bernie Sanders and the party establishment are also explored, pointing to the challenges of unifying a leftist agenda in a corporate-dominated environment.

Vijay Prashad, executive director of the Tricontinental Institute for Social Research, and Becca Rothfeld, a non-fiction book critic for the Washington Post, delve into the complexities of the current U.S. empire and the global worker's struggles. They discuss America's geopolitical challenges, contrasting its short-term political focus with China's strategic patience. They also critique the decline of unionization and the gig economy's impact on workers. Moreover, they explore the cultural trend of minimalism, advocating for a richer, 'maximalist aesthetic' in life.

Aziz Rana, a Professor at Boston College Law School, dives deep into the evolution of the American project and its constitutional worship. He discusses the rise of nativism and authoritarianism in the U.S., linking it to neoliberalism's roots and cultural shifts of the 1970s. Exploring the complexities of gender roles, political norms, and the very fabric of American identity, Rana critiques the constitutional design while advocating for grassroots support to counter the far-right. The conversation highlights the urgent need for reform in the face of systemic inequalities.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Irving, a lecturer and author, and Palestinian writer Seraj Assi delve into the lives of Ghassan Kanafani and Leila Khaled, pivotal figures in the Palestinian left. They explore the historical significance of 1967 and the evolution of revolutionary thought in Palestinian literature. The conversation highlights the enduring legacy of resistance in their works, particularly focusing on themes of loss and resilience. Additionally, they discuss the crucial role of women in the struggle and Khaled's complex legacy as a symbol of liberation.

In a spirited celebration of International Workers' Day, the hosts express gratitude to their listeners and highlight a special subscription offer. They emphasize the importance of solidarity and collective action against exploitation. The discussion fosters a sense of community, inviting supporters to share the experience by gifting subscriptions. Listeners are encouraged to participate in a celebratory event in Brooklyn, featuring notable speakers who will chart a visionary socialist future.

Aziz Rana, a Boston College Law Professor and author of The Constitutional Bind, delves into how the U.S. Constitution may have paved the way for Donald Trump's rise and the ensuing political turmoil. He critiques the authoritarian tendencies embedded in the Constitution and explores the expansion of executive power during Trump's presidency. Rana warns of a potential constitutional crisis stemming from unilateral actions and advocates for the left to build collective power through alternative structures like unions to combat political extremism.