Unions and the Defense of Freedom

Democratic socialists, and all who are committed to social justice, democracy and freedom, must continually renew our dedication to the development of a vibrant global union movement.

The Solidarity movement eventually led to the collapse of an oppressive Russian-dominated regime in Poland.  The Black trade union movement in South Africa helped dismantle apartheid.  Democratic unions were a foundation of the Arab Spring uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia.

 Let us not forget what unions can do to challenge oppression and liberate the oppressed, whether the people are under an authoritarian “Communist” system or a plutocratic capitalist regime.

Of course this applies to the USA as well.  Strong labor unions helped create what was for decades the bedrock for a relatively secure middle class existence for millions of American workers.  Many “baby boomers” have forgotten that their quality of life, educational opportunities and economic security were due to successful labor unions, and that the decline of organized labor has helped create the current economic crises.

 We will not forget the debts we owe to the Trade Union movement.  Let us defend it and help it grow with solidarity and determination.

Ed Nol, MD, is a member of the Detroit chapter of DSA.

For further discussion of union issues, see the blog Talking Union posted to your right. 

Individually signed posts do not necessarily reflect the views of DSA as an organization or its leadership.