The 1937 Memorial Day Massacre: A community remembers
On Memorial Day 1937, hundreds of steelworkers and supporters, led by the Steel Workers Organizing Committee, attempted a peaceful picket of Republic Steel in Chicago. They were met by several hundred Chicago police who, unprovoked, charged the demonstration with billy clubs, tear gas and pistols. When the dust settled, ten picketers were dead and dozens wounded.
PWW/NM a hit at Bud Billiken parade
CHICAGO – The Bud Billiken parade, this city’s biggest parade and the largest gathering of African Americans in the country, has been held every year since 1929. It was started by the late Robert S. Abbott, founding publisher of the Chicago Defender newspaper, as a tribute to youth and the struggle against racism.
Celebrating the life of Nelson Brown
The work and life of Nelson Brown, Sr., who died on July 25, was celebrated at a memorial service recently at Philadelphia’s Canaan Baptist Church with family, friends, community leaders, and comrades from the Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware district of the Communist Party USA. He was 77.
Woody Guthrie: This Machine Kills Fascists
I have decided long ago that my songs and ballads would not get the hugs and kisses of the capitalistic “experts.” – Woody Guthrie
Lou Diskin, Marxist educator, working-class activist
Lou Diskin, Communist and long-time working class activist, died July 28 at the age of 84. Lou was a carpenter, book publisher and seller, educator, and political leader. He was admired for his wisdom, modest character, deep concern for the well-being of all around him, and his daily humorous story. He was well-read in literature as well as politics.
Dixie Chicks: Great music and integrity
Music Review I had always loved the bluegrass/roots based music of the Dixie Chicks, but after the recent corporate-organized attempt to boycott them, I felt it was almost a duty to get tickets and see their show. They are now on a national tour, dubbed the Top of the World Tour, hitting 12 cities this summer.
