Work Stoppage

We start with some check-ins Starbucks' war on workers, the fight by workers at Butler Hospital, and the continuing cruel attacks on workers by the Trump Administration. We've also got headlines this week from Duke, Western Washington University, Sutphen Corp, Golden Gate Nursing Home, and UPMC. Canadian port workers in British Columbia are fighting attempts to replace their jobs with robots. Farm workers in New York are fighting the brazen refusal of farm owners to abide by their legal contract. A recent piece in Labor Notes reports on efforts by both the SEIU and the Machinists to return their union siblings home after being abducted by ICE. Finally, video game workers have been organizing in bigger numbers every year, and this week saw workers at Zenimax reach a new milestone with a first contract. Join the discord: discord.gg/tDvmNzX  Follow the pod at instagram.com/workstoppage, @WorkStoppagePod on Twitter,  John @facebookvillain, and Lina @solidaritybee

We start this week with headlines on organizing in healthcare, logistics, airlines, construction, software development, video games, and trading cards. We did a deeper dive on a set of stories from Canada last week, this week we have three big stories from workers and farmers in India fighting against neoliberal exploitation. The next major step forward for Mexico's young independent labor movement may be coming up, as Labor Notes reports on efforts to bring new union SINTTIA to a second major plant from GM. The Supreme Court took a major step towards dismantling the NLRA and the entire post-Depression regime of contractual collective bargaining this week, and unions will need to shift tactics to respond. Finally, we discuss how the 4 day workweek is going in Iceland. Join the discord: discord.gg/tDvmNzX  Follow the pod at instagram.com/workstoppage, @WorkStoppagePod on Twitter,  John @facebookvillain, and Lina @solidaritybee

The podcast dives into recent labor movements across Canada, including the potential revival of the Canada Post strike and the return of port workers after a long lockout. Warehouse workers in Manhattan are standing up against challenging conditions, while a report reveals the exploitation faced by Cambodian shoe laborers. Starbucks employees are striking against restrictive dress codes, and a significant rail strike brings attention to the power of industrial action. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for solidarity and change in labor rights.

This episode dives into the vibrant labor movement in Panama, celebrating a significant general strike for workers' rights. It shines a light on Amazon workers' tenacious fight for better conditions in Italy, illustrating the power of global solidarity. The grassroots activism of teachers at Paul Cuffee Charter School in Rhode Island is highlighted, showcasing their struggle for fair pay and adequate staffing. Additionally, the recent victorious end of a lengthy strike at Kaiser Permanente underscores the importance of union efforts in securing better working conditions.

On the Line Jimmy Williams Interview: https://www.laborontheline.org/p/episode-25-jimmy-williams-jr-labors Happy May Day everyone! We start with headlines from Starbucks, Amazon, UPS, Duolingo, and the NHS. Next we discuss the sudden dissolution of the UAW's long standing reform caucus, the UAWD. A report from the American Prospect this week details the attacks on workers at the VA from inside testimony. Hotel workers in Buffalo are fighting back against illegal firings and racist retaliation in their struggle for a union. This week also saw May Day, and we discuss the history of International Workers Day and some of the many events held to commemorate it and continue the struggle around the world. Finally, public workers in LA organized with the SEIU held a massive two day strike this week in their fight to afford the soaring cost of living. Join the discord: discord.gg/tDvmNzX  Follow the pod at instagram.com/workstoppage, @WorkStoppagePod on Twitter,  John @facebookvillain, and Lina @solidaritybee More info on the show at http://workstoppagepod.com/

This discussion delves into the alarming conditions faced by immigrant workers in the dairy industry, emphasizing recent arrests in Vermont. Attention is drawn to successful unionization efforts at PetSmart, highlighting the importance of worker rights. The talk shifts to the challenges and intimidation grocery workers face during negotiations at Kroger and Albertsons. Additionally, solidarity actions by Starbucks workers are showcased, as they demand fair contracts after years of struggle. Finally, the podcast underscores the critical need for unity against systemic exploitation in various labor sectors.

This week delves into the critical issues facing workers across various regions. Topics include the ongoing attacks on the NLRB and the fight for worker unity. The podcast spotlights emerging strikes in the gaming industry and the significant gains made by independent Mexican unions. It explores the intersections of labor and social justice, particularly regarding trans rights, while highlighting recent victories for public workers. Overall, it emphasizes the need for radical union organizing and collective action to combat systemic oppression.

Explore the fierce union-led protests against funding cuts impacting research and labor rights. Delve into recent discussions on how tariffs affect American workers and the UAW's policies. Highlights include Microsoft's controversial firings related to geopolitical issues and the ongoing fight against deportations. The episode critiques budget cuts threatening scientific integrity and essential services, emphasizing unity among workers facing oppressive political climates. It's a rallying cry for solidarity and action in the face of systemic challenges.

It was a major week of protest against the billionaire assault on the working class, but not without contradictions. We start with headlines from Detroit, Chicago, California, Oregon, and Chile. Next we discuss a recent piece by friend of the show Claudia Irizarry Aponte on the surge of exploitative payday loan apps in New York City and across the country. Next we discuss Trump's gigantic tariff announcement and how it's already hurting the working class both here in the US and abroad. Also this week, RFK Jr ramped up massive layoffs at HHS, threatening the health of everyone in the country. Finally, we discuss the intersection of the war on workers and the war on Palestine, as thousands marched on Washington both to demand an end to the genocide and to demand and end to attacks on social programs. Join the discord: discord.gg/tDvmNzX  Follow the pod at instagram.com/workstoppage, @WorkStoppagePod on Twitter,  John @facebookvillain, and Lina @solidaritybee More info on the show at http://workstoppagepod.com/

Erik Baker, a Harvard lecturer and author of 'Make Your Own Job,' dives into the intense world of entrepreneurialism and its effects on the labor movement. He discusses how the ideology of self-made success has shaped societal narratives, especially during economic downturns. Baker explores the implications of the gig economy and labor classification, contrasting the struggles faced by workers. He also critiques self-help ideologies and their historical roots, urging solidarity across diverse working classes in the fight for fair labor practices.