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Podcast Episode

The Legacy of Rev. Jesse Jackson: Pioneering Labor Solidarity

The Monthly Labor Report··30 July 2026·27 min

About this episode

The Labor Report talks with Gene Bruskin, veteran labor organizer, anti-war activist, and play write, known for leading one of the most significant private sector union victories of the 21st century, namely the successful effort to unionize 5000 workers at the Smithfield Foods pork processing plant in North Carolina -- a victory which is documented in the film Union Time. Gene Bruskin shares the story of his long association and collaboration with Rev. Jackson focusing on Jesse's groundbreaking initiatives to forge alliances with the multi-racial working class and organized labor. Hosts: Richard Hill and Michael Zweig