In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D and guest Kali Akuno from Cooperation Jackson tackle the potentially groundbreaking Supreme Court case poised to limit the right to protest in the United States. Originating from a 2016 Black Lives Matter protest where damage to a police car led to potential organizational liability, this case could significantly stifle protest and civil disobedience, especially impacting marginalized communities historically subjected to disproportionate police violence.
Kali Akuno noted that such a ruling is likely to be disproportionately applied. There would be a move to suppress protests against powerful entities and figures while turning a blind eye to protests led by former President Trump for his infamous January 6 rally.
The discussion also delved into the implementation of a parallel system of courts and policing in Jackson, Mississippi, initiated by HB 1020 in 2023. This legislative move transferred control of local policing and the court system from the municipality to the governor and a state-appointed commission, effectively undermining Jackson’s democratic governance. This shift has had profound implications for the predominantly black Jackson Police Force and the local community’s autonomy.
Furthermore, Dave and Kali discussed the intricate links between environmental justice and social equality, drawing parallels to the historical anti-apartheid movement and the ongoing struggles for Palestinian recognition. They emphasized the importance of understanding and leveraging lessons from past movements to address today’s environmental and social crises.
The episode concluded with a focus on the plight of the Palestinian people, discussing the ongoing ethnic cleansing and genocide and the critical role of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. Highlighting the U.S. government’s complicit support through draconian legislation, they encouraged listeners to engage with and support BDS efforts as a means to promote justice and equality on a global scale. This conversation sets the stage for a series of forthcoming discussions and resources aimed at deepening understanding and action on these pressing issues.
As Noted on the show below are several articles folks may wanna read that take our conversation deeper around movement building, protests and BDS.
Shifting Focus: Organizing for Revolution, Not Crisis Avoidance (pt1)
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