Forum: End of Policing
Oakland, CA, Nov. 16: The Nor-Cal District held a panel discussion, “The End of Policing,” with Alex Vitale, sociology professor and author of The End of Policing, and Cassie Lopez, longtime activist and public school educator in ethnic studies and Spanish. View the discussion here.
Forum: Green Strategy
West Philadelphia, Nov. 7: Marc Brodine discussed his recent book, Green Strategy, at the Social Science Forum held in the West Philadelphia library. The event was attended by 16 people, including both veterans of the climate movement and young activists from groups such as Sunrise. After Marc’s interesting discussion and Power Point presentation, the audience asked probing questions, further deepening the discussion. This event was part of the Philadelphia Social Science Forum, a series sponsored by Friends of the People’s World.
Image: Marc Brodine
Airport Workers Protest
New York, Nov. 26: Brooklyn Club activists participated in a protest action at the JFK Airport, where the Unite Here! Local 100 workers were striking for better wages and health care. At one point, a number of workers walked into the airport to conduct a die-in while those outside chanted “Die in so we can win!” Speakers at the rally included Mayor De Blasio, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, and DSA member and State Senator Julia Salazar.
People’s World Banquet
Philadelphia, Dec. 8: The People’s World banquet drew 50 guests and featured a dynamite speech by Chauncey K. Robinson, social media editor for the PW. The group Healthcare for all Philadelphia, a local affiliate of a statewide organization, was honored at the event. The audience was treated to a wonderful performance of labor and other songs by Griffin.
Image: Chauncey K. Robinson
Annual People’s World Gala
Chicago, Dec. 8: The Annual People’s World Gala, held at the Highlander Restaurant, celebrated working-class journalism and 2019 victories in the labor and democratic movements. Howard Kling from the International Labor Communications Association keynoted the event. The Chicago Teachers Union was honored with the Frank Lumpkin–Rudy Lozano Social Justice Award after winning the historic strike with SEIU Local 73. Accepting the award on behalf of the CTU was Recording Secretary Christel Williams-Hayes along with CTU Financial Secretary Maria Morena. Lenny Sanchez, a leader of a campaign to organize Uber and Lyft drivers and other gig workers, also gave greetings. Cultural performers included Nigerian American artist Ugochi and jazz-blues-folk-protest musician Tim Hickey and his trio.