Upstream

In this conversation with Jeff Schuhrke, a labor historian and author, listeners explore the complex history of U.S. labor's support for Zionism. Schuhrke contrasts the Jewish Labor Bund's socialist approach with the nationalist agenda of Zionism. He delves into the financial and ideological backing from U.S. unions, particularly during pivotal moments like WWII and the Nakba. The discussion also addresses parallels between labor actions and anti-apartheid movements, and the need for renewed internationalist politics within the labor movement today.

Cecilia Guerrero, Chair and founding member of A Luta Sigue, shares her insights as an organizer in Tennessee. She dives into the terror tactics of ICE and how mass deportations serve capitalist agendas. Cecilia highlights the role of imperialism in driving immigration and explains the exploitation faced by immigrant workers. She advocates for a united class struggle instead of a rights-based approach and discusses the revolutionary potential of immigrant labor. Her critique of liberal politics emphasizes the need for a dedicated workers' party to galvanize genuine change.

José Luis Granados Ceja, a seasoned journalist and anti-imperialist commentator with nearly two decades of experience covering Venezuela, shares his insights on the US's aggressive foreign policy. He delves into the implications of the US blockade on Venezuela's economy and its humanitarian impact, while discussing the strategic connections to Cuba. José Luis also explores regional geopolitics, Mexico's unique role in these dynamics, and the importance of popular resistance. His call for international solidarity and mass mobilization adds urgency to the conversation.

Join Nathalie Nahai, a behavior science expert exploring psychology in the digital age, and Manda Scott, a novelist and shamanic practitioner, as they reflect on a transformative year. They delve into the challenges and joys of AI, the importance of storytelling for cultural regeneration, and their hopes for a brighter future. Manda shares insights on inner work and systemic change, while Nathalie discusses fostering community connection through rituals. Together, they ponder how to choose kindness over bitterness in these uncertain times.

The conversation delves into the challenges of living with long COVID and mold sensitivity, detailing the struggle of frequent relocations to avoid health hazards. The discussion highlights the tensions between profit-driven housing construction and tenant health. Gary Snyder's essay on bioregionalism is introduced, emphasizing the significance of 'place' and emotional connections to landscapes. Reflections on childhood, local vernacular, and the loss of natural spaces to urban development add depth to this poignant exploration of connection to the land.

Jeff Schuhrke, a labor historian and activist, takes listeners on a riveting journey through the complex relationship between US labor and global anti-communism. He reveals how major labor organizations, like the AFL-CIO, transformed into tools of US foreign policy, participating in coup efforts across Latin America and beyond. Schuhrke explains the deradicalization of labor movements during the Cold War and discusses the consequences of this shift for workers globally, advocating for a return to anti-imperialist internationalism.

In this engaging discussion, Stephanie Weatherbee Brito, a popular educator and coordinator for the International People's Assembly, sheds light on the political landscape of Mexico. She unpacks the rise of Morena and the concept of the Fourth Transformation, connecting it to Mexico's historical shifts. Stephanie discusses the impact of neoliberalism on earlier revolutionary gains and the fragmentation of the left. She also contrasts Morena's reformist agenda with the Zapatistas' autonomy project, highlighting the complex dynamics of contemporary Mexican politics.

Andrew Fanning, Research & Data Analysis Lead at Doughnut Economics Action Lab, dives into the transformative concept of Doughnut Economics. He vividly explains its evolution from Donut 1.0 to 3.0 and highlights alarming ecological overshoot trends threatening our planet. Fanning discusses the stark inequalities between country groups and the implications of continuing with GDP as a success metric. He advocates for a systems change towards a post-growth future, emphasizing the significance of localizing targets and using insightful indicators for actionable progress.

Cecilia Guerrero, chair and founding member of A Luta Sigue, offers a captivating exploration of Mexico’s rich history. Born into a family of Mexican steelworkers, she discusses pre-colonial civilizations like the Olmec and Maya, highlighting their innovations in writing and urban planning. Cecilia delves into the devastating impacts of the Spanish conquest, the chaotic transition to independence, and the emergence of revolutionary movements, weaving together stories of resilience and cultural legacy.

Tara Raghuveer, a tenant organizer from Kansas City, and Josh Poe, organizing director of the Kentucky Tenants Union, dive into the world of tenant organizing. They discuss the fight against corporate landlords and the root causes of the housing crisis, exposing how rising rents are often a manufactured issue. The pair share insights on building tenant unions, the challenges in Southern states, and the significance of political education in empowering tenants. They envision a future of universal housing and collective ownership that prioritizes people over profits.