The Dig

Astra Taylor, a writer and filmmaker known for co-founding The Debt Collective, and Leah Hunt-Hendrix, co-founder of Solidare Network, delve into their book on solidarity. They explore the historical significance of solidarity in social movements, emphasizing collective action's necessity to tackle global challenges. The discussion critiques individualism, highlights transformative solidarity, and reimagines it in public discourse. They also tackle immigration issues and the role of philanthropy in progressive movements, stressing the need for united efforts against systemic barriers.

Naomi Klein, a renowned journalist and author of "Doppelganger: A Trip Into the Mirror World," discusses the surge of far-right conspiracist politics post-pandemic. She highlights the historical contradictions driving current societal violence and oppression. Topics include the rise of multiracial right-wing nationalism, vaccine profiteering, and the ethical dilemmas in public health. Klein critiques the left's response to pandemic-related challenges and underscores the need for solidarity among low-wage workers amidst growing inequality.

In this insightful discussion, historian Abdel Razzaq Takriti, an expert on Arab revolutionary movements, explores the tumultuous history of Palestinian resistance. He delves into Hamas's 2006 electoral victory and the subsequent siege on Gaza, drawing connections to the recent escalation of violence on October 7. Takriti critiques the normalization of violence against Palestinians and examines the geopolitical dynamics involving U.S. policies and Iran's regional alliances, all while advocating for global solidarity in the face of colonialism.

Jake Werner, Acting Director of the East Asia program at the Quincy Institute and co-founder of Justice is Global, delves into the escalating New Cold War between the US and China. He explores how rising nationalism and economic shifts have influenced relations, advocating for a cooperative international order. Werner discusses the complexities of Biden's foreign policy versus historical context, critiques anti-China sentiment as a manufactured trend, and emphasizes the urgent need for global solidarity to address economic inequalities.

Aslı Bâli, an expert on left-wing internationalism and decolonization, teams up with Aziz Rana, a scholar of contemporary anti-neocolonial struggles. They dive into the history of Third Worldism and its relevance today, particularly in relation to the Palestinian liberation movement. The discussion spans the complexities of forming coalitions against US imperialism, the legacy of anti-colonial efforts during the Cold War, and the evolving nature of activism in response to global injustices. Their insights emphasize the need for solidarity in today’s geopolitical landscape.

Featuring Abdel Razzaq Takriti, this is the second of what has become a three-part epilogue to Thawra (Revolution), our series on Arab radicalism in the 20th century. This episode takes us from the disastrous Oslo Accords through the 2000 Camp David Summit and the eruption of the Second Palestinian Intifada. Then the 9/11 attacks, the War on Terror, the US destruction of Iraq, the Arab Spring, the Syrian Civil War, and the rise of Islamic State. A century of Western imperialism had undermined Arab revolutionary movements and governments; the new millennium brought two decades of US-led war that destroyed the Arab state system. Atop its wreckage was the explosion of sectarian violence and murderous authoritarianism across the Arab East. Hope still resides in the power of popular renewal. Support The Dig at Patreon.com/TheDig Buy Visualizing Palestine at haymarketbooks.org Buy Exit Wounds at UCPress.edu

In this engaging discussion, Amna Akbar, a social movements expert, Gabe Winant, a commentator on labor and climate issues, and Thea Riofrancos, a scholar on climate and left electoralism, tackle pivotal themes in American politics. They delve into the importance of Palestinian solidarity and the complexities of left identity politics. The resurrection of Obamaism and its contradictions are critically analyzed. The trio emphasizes the link between labor activism and the climate crisis, advocating for more robust grassroots organizing to confront systemic challenges.

Abdel Razzaq Takriti, an expert on Arab radicalism and the Iranian Islamic Revolution's impact, dives into the seismic shifts in the Arab East post-1979. He explores the rise of conservative Islamic movements, including Hamas and Hezbollah, as the PLO navigated its path toward the Oslo Accords. The discussions extend to critical events like the Iran-Iraq War, Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, and the emergence of Islamic resistance amid evolving sectarian dynamics. Takriti sheds light on the intricate dance of geopolitics and revolutionary movements that shaped the region.

Sunaura Taylor, an author focusing on animal and disability liberation, dives into her groundbreaking book, *Beasts of Burden*. She challenges us to rethink socialism and Marxism through these critical lenses, discussing the intersections of human and non-human struggles. With her sister, Astra Taylor, they tackle how industrial agriculture reinforces capitalist exploitation and explore the philosophical roots of ableism alongside speciesism. Sunaura emphasizes the urgent need for solidarity in activism, advocating for a compassionate reevaluation of our societal values.

Join Jeremy Corbyn, a key figure in British left-wing politics, and Laleh Khalili, an expert in international relations, as they delve into the pressing need for global solidarity in times of crisis. They discuss the humanitarian challenges in Palestine and Congo, urging support for marginalized voices. The duo critiques the British left's complex relationship with internationalism, emphasizing grassroots activism and progressive reform. They stress the importance of unity among labor movements to combat austerity, inequality, and far-right ideologies in a rapidly changing world.