Movement Memos

Olúfẹ́mi O. Táíwò, an associate professor of philosophy at Georgetown University and author of Elite Capture, dives deep into the complexities of protests. He critiques large, awareness-raising events and stresses that strategic organization is vital for achieving real change. The conversation highlights the importance of coalition-building and actionable goals over mere participation. Olúfẹ́mi also emphasizes the significance of supporting independent media and creating community spaces for effective activism in today's challenging political climate.

“Part of my work as a community safety and security practitioner is about offering tools for people to feel and move through fear so that we can continue to keep more of us in this fight,” says Che Johnson-Long. In this episode, Che and Kelly discuss safety planning and practical actions that individuals and organizations can take right now to create as much safety as possible in our lives and our movements. You can find a transcript and show notes (including links to resources) here: truthout.org/series/movement-memos/ If you would like to support the show, you can donate here: bit.ly/TODonate If you would like to receive Truthout's newsletter, please sign up: bit.ly/TOnewsletter

In this engaging discussion, Shane Burley, an expert on fascism and social movements, dives deep into the complexities of organizing in a politically charged climate. He warns about the rise of techno-fascism and the need for mutual aid and solidarity. Burley emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and building coalitions to combat systemic oppression, especially against marginalized communities. The conversation also critically examines the role of far-right figures in mainstream politics and calls for a united front against the erosion of democracy.

Ejeris Dixon, an experienced organizer and strategist in racial justice and economic movements, dives into the urgent topic of fascism reshaping our political landscape. He discusses the critical importance of coalition building and empathy in fostering resistance strategies. The conversation highlights the need for self-care and community support in activism, and emphasizes reframing power for collective safety. Ejeris calls for transformative strategies to unite diverse communities against systemic oppression, fostering hope and resilient action in troubling times.

Dean Spade, a writer and trans activist, shares insights from his book, discussing how relationships shape social movements. He emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness and how societal issues like patriarchy affect collaboration in activism. Spade critiques traditional notions of independence, promoting interdependence and community care, especially during the pandemic. He introduces 'ideological promiscuity' as a means to foster diverse relationships that fuel personal and collective growth, urging listeners to nurture connections in challenging times.

“We need each other, and interdependence is key to survival for human beings,” says Mariame organizer Kaba. In this episode, Mariame and Kelly talk about what their book Let This Radicalize You brings to this moment. They also discuss the fight for reproductive justice, the problem with schadenfreude, and the need to build collective courage.Music: Son Monarcas and PulsedYou can find a transcript and show notes (including links to resources) here: truthout.org/series/movement-memos/If you would like to support the show, you can donate here: bit.ly/TODonateIf you would like to receive Truthout's newsletter, please sign up: bit.ly/TOnewsletter

Nikki Marín Baena, co-founder of Siembra NC, shares her experience in grassroots organizing against mass deportation policies. She discusses empowering communities through Know Your Rights trainings and mutual aid to combat fear generated by aggressive enforcement. Nikki highlights the importance of personal connections in building resilient communities and rethinking safety. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of humanizing stories from detention, fostering collective care, and encouraging community engagement to create effective defense initiatives.

“We are really good at finding what's wrong with each other,” says author and podcaster Margaret Killjoy. “We really need to challenge ourselves to be ready to let people be better.” In this episode, Kelly and Margaret talk about preparedness, collective survival, and the organizing lessons we need in these times.Music: Son Monarcas, Curved Mirror, Pulsed, and David CelesteYou can find a transcript and show notes (including links to resources) here: truthout.org/series/movement-memos/If you would like to support the show, you can donate here: bit.ly/TODonateIf you would like to receive Truthout's newsletter, please sign up: bit.ly/TOnewsletter

“Our power comes from knowing who's around us, from trusting who's around us, and from strategizing with every lever that we have,” says tenant organizer and Abolish Rent co-author Tracy Rosenthal. In this episode, Rosenthal and their co-author Leonardo Vilchi talk with Kelly about what rent strikes and tenant unions can teach us about the work of collective survival in this moment.Music: Son Monarcas, Isobel O'Connor, and David CelesteYou can find a transcript and show notes (including links to resources) here: truthout.org/series/movement-memos/If you would like to support the show, you can donate here: bit.ly/TODonateIf you would like to receive Truthout's newsletter, please sign up: bit.ly/TOnewsletter

“It’s inherently a racial justice and economic justice fight,” says Silky Shah, executive director of Detention Watch Network. In this episode, Kelly talks with Silky about the threats posed by the incoming Trump administration, how organizers are preparing to defend immigrant communities, and what actions we can take to prepare and respond.Music: Son Monarcas, Curved Mirror & David CelesteYou can find a transcript and show notes (including links to resources) here: truthout.org/series/movement-memos/If you would like to support the show, you can donate here: bit.ly/TODonateIf you would like to receive Truthout's newsletter, please sign up: bit.ly/TOnewsletter