On today’s episode of Hard Knock Radio, we had the privilege of speaking with Kali Akuno from Cooperation Jackson about the thought-provoking book, “Jackson Rising Redux: Lessons on Building the Future in the Present.” This publication offers a comprehensive analysis and reflection on the Jackson-Kush Plan, highlighting both its successes and setbacks.
Published by PM Press, the book’s website provides a concise summary, stating that Mississippi, the poorest state in the US with a significant Black population and a history of racial terror, serves as the backdrop for the struggle against global health, economic, and climate crises. Cooperation Jackson, founded in 2014 in the state capital, aimed to create an economically uplifting democratic “solidarity economy” through a network of worker-owned, self-managed cooperative enterprises. The organization emerged during the tenure of radical Mayor Chokwe Lumumba, a lifelong human rights attorney. Following Lumumba’s untimely passing within a year of assuming office, the network expanded its projects both within and outside the formal political sphere. By 2020, Cooperation Jackson had become a hub for national and international coalition efforts, uniting progressive individuals from various trade union, youth, church, and cultural movements. This eagerly anticipated anthology unveils the foundations and successful campaigns behind the movement for grassroots-centered Black community control and self-determination, inspiring collaboration and emulation globally.
During our conversation, Kali delved into the political circumstances that led individuals to Jackson, Mississippi, and elucidated the initial goals of the movement. He emphasized the significant impact of the 2001 World Conference Against Racism in Durban, South Africa, as well as the US government’s neglect of Black communities in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Kali discussed why Cooperation Jackson centered its efforts on cooperatives, cooperative economics, and mutual aid, providing a detailed account of what worked and the challenges they faced when members of the movement were elected into positions of power, particularly in the mayorship. Additionally, he highlighted the profound impact of the sudden passing of former City Council and Mayor Chokwe Lumumba, underscoring the loss felt by the community.
Our conversation with Kali Akuno offered valuable insights into the political landscape that led to the emergence of Cooperation Jackson and shed light on the organization’s achievements, obstacles, and the transformative legacy of Mayor Chokwe Lumumba. “Jackson Rising Redux” serves as a vital resource for those interested in grassroots movements, community control, and the pursuit of self-determination.
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