DeepSummary
The episode starts with a discussion about a 1979 documentary film called 'The Wobblies' that chronicles the history of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) labor union. Breht, a guest on a local NPR station in Omaha, provides context on the significance of the film and the IWW movement, describing it as a radical and inclusive labor organization that aimed to organize unskilled workers across industries.
The conversation then delves into the relevance of the film's themes in today's context, drawing parallels between the struggles faced by the IWW and contemporary labor movements, such as the recent unionization efforts at companies like Amazon and Starbucks. The panelists discuss the importance of labor solidarity, the role of music and art in protest movements, and the challenges faced by organizers in the face of state and corporate repression.
The episode also touches on the technical aspects of the film's restoration and re-release, as well as recommendations for further reading and viewing on related topics, such as labor history and documentaries exploring similar themes of workers' rights and economic inequality.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- The 1979 documentary 'The Wobblies' provides a rare and invaluable glimpse into the history of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) labor union, a radical and inclusive organization that fought for workers' rights and dignity in the early 20th century.
- The themes and struggles portrayed in the film, such as wealth inequality, state repression, and the fight for workers' solidarity, remain relevant and resonate with contemporary labor movements and socio-economic issues.
- The film's use of first-hand accounts and interviews with elderly IWW members, as well as its innovative documentary style, helped shape the genre and inspired future filmmakers.
- Labor movements and social protests have often faced violent opposition and repression from state and corporate powers, but their legacy and impact continue to inspire and inform future generations of activists and organizers.
- Music, art, and culture have played a vital role in labor movements, serving as vehicles for expression, solidarity, and protest against injustice and oppression.
- While leaders and public figures often receive recognition, successful social movements are underpinned by the sacrifices and contributions of ordinary people who remain largely unsung and unacknowledged.
- The re-release and restoration of 'The Wobblies' provides an opportunity to revisit and celebrate the legacy of the IWW, drawing inspiration and lessons for contemporary struggles for workers' rights and economic justice.
- Engaging with labor history and films like 'The Wobblies' can help foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of social movements, economic inequality, and the ongoing fight for a more just and equitable society.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “If one man has a dollar he didn't work for, than another man worked for a dollar he didn't get. That's very easy to understand, you know, the other one was, I've never read Marx's capital, but I have the marks of capital all over my body. Like, brilliant, poetic, right to the point.“ by Speaker B
- “Every movement, as you said, what will have its leaders that we point to. But we should never forget that every successful and every failed movement worth anything at all is underpinned by regular, everyday people. Nameless, faceless people we'll never know or hear about, but who, you know, in many cases, sacrifice their life so that people in the future us might have a better go at it. And that's beautiful.“ by Speaker B
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Episode Information
Revolutionary Left Radio
Revolutionary Left Radio
5/1/22
Find a showing near you here: https://kinomarquee.com/film/venue/624202eb7b0e1200011ce8c3
Find the original version of The Wobblies for free on YT here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr7U9wQ7La4&ab_channel=TretanoTrampo
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