In a riveting dialogue on Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged Kali Akuno, co-founder of Cooperation Jackson, in a profound discussion that spanned from the perception of U.S. politics abroad to the urgent need for community organizing in the face of rising fascism globally. Throughout the conversation, Akuno offered critical insights into the dynamics shaping current social and political landscapes, both in the United States and internationally.
Akuno began by sharing his observations from a recent trip to Greece, where he noted a palpable concern among Europeans about the political shifts toward the right, particularly with the electoral success of far-right parties in France. He reflected on the anxiety he encountered about the possibility of a fascist takeover in various democracies. “They were very concerned about having an outright fascist organization controlling France,” Akuno said, underscoring the global implications of such political shifts.
The conversation took a deeper dive into the issues of narrative control and media portrayal. Akuno pointed out a troubling trend: the negative portrayal of the U.S. abroad, particularly focusing on crime and violence in cities like New York, Chicago, and Oakland. He emphasized the racial undertones often accompanying these narratives, which predominantly portray Black communities as centers of crime. “One of the things that I personally see being exported around the world are narratives about crime, and a black face being accompanied with it, which is a very powerful narrative,” Akuno remarked.
Davey D and Akuno discussed the implications of these narratives for Black Americans and other marginalized communities, particularly in the context of upcoming U.S. elections and the broader political climate. They touched upon the potential for these portrayals to influence domestic policies and international relations.
A significant portion of the conversation was dedicated to the concept of community organizing and preparedness in the face of societal and political challenges. Akuno criticized the superficial engagement with the electoral process without a corresponding commitment to more substantive, grassroots organizing. He stressed the importance of being able to sustain communities independently of the state, citing the need for self-sufficiency in basics like food, water, and medicine. “Can you feed yourself? Do you have enough control over the resources? You know, the water, the electricity, things of that nature to take care of your yourself, your family, your community,” Akuno challenged the audience.
Akuno’s commentary highlighted a critical perspective on American exceptionalism and the false sense of security it provides. He argued that many Americans, including those within progressive and leftist circles, fail to prepare for the very real possibility of authoritarianism taking root in the U.S. “American exceptionalism is a real thing…and it creates its own kind of inertia,” he explained, suggesting that many underestimate the potential for drastic changes in governance and civil liberties.
The discussion also explored the historical and ongoing efforts by the right to consolidate power, noting that such movements are not just about immediate political wins but about reshaping society in profound and long-lasting ways. Akuno pointed out the organized nature of right-wing groups and the lack of a similarly robust organizational structure among progressive forces. “The right is an organized force that has clear designs on how it is going to restructure and reshape society when—and I’m stressing that when—they take the full reins of power,” he stated.
In a poignant call to action, Akuno emphasized the need for real, sustainable organizing that goes beyond electoral politics to build resilience within communities against potential authoritarian shifts. He underscored the importance of mutual aid, collective self-defense, and community solidarity as tools to counteract the systemic challenges posed by both capitalist exploitation and political repression.
As the conversation wrapped up, Akuno left the listeners with a powerful reflection on the necessity of readiness and collective action. “If we believe that this society and all trends are that is headed towards some major strife, bloodshed, if not civil war…we’re gonna need folks with both clarity, skill, and purpose to help defend all of us who want to see a different world,” he concluded, highlighting the urgency of the moment and the critical role of community action in navigating the stormy waters of contemporary politics.
Davey D’s interview with Kali Akuno on Hard Knock Radio thus served not only as a discussion on current events but as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead for those committed to justice and equity in an increasingly uncertain world.
Here are some key articles written by Kali Akuno for everyone to read..
Some Thoughts on What Can Be Done to withstand the Neo-Confederate/Neo-Fascist Conquest of Power
Shifting Focus: Organizing for Revolution, Not Crisis Avoidance, Part 1
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