BPA Insider: "I AM STORY" - Exploring The Legacy of The 1968 Memphis Sanitation Strike
BPA Insider: "I AM STORY" - Exploring The Legacy of The 1968 Memphis Sanitation Strike
A movement that began after two sanitation workers were crushed to death in the back of their truck while sheltering from the rain.
In the annals of American history, few events have encapsulated the struggle for civil and labor rights as poignantly as the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Strike. The new podcast series "I AM STORY," hosted by Lee Saunders, the first African American President of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), brings this pivotal moment to life.
This sound-rich podcast not only explores the events of the strike but also connects its legacy to ongoing challenges and triumphs in the labor movement.
The Inception of a Movement
The strike that reshaped the labor movement was sparked by a tragic incident: two sanitation workers, Robert Walker and Echol Cole, were crushed to death in a garbage truck. This event underscored the hazardous working conditions and lack of respect faced by sanitation workers. Their decision to strike was a stand for dignity, fair pay, and safe working conditions - basic human rights that were blatantly disregarded.
"I AM STORY" dives deep into this historical context, using exclusive interviews and archival audio to reconstruct the atmosphere of 1968. The podcast features insights from notable figures like Martin Luther King III, Rev. James Lawson, and historian Michael Honey.
The Power of Solidarity
One of the most striking aspects of the Memphis Sanitation Strike was the solidarity it garnered. The strikers, with their powerful declaration "I AM A MAN," captured the nation's attention and aligned with the broader Civil Rights Movement. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s involvement lent a significant weight to their cause, illustrating the inseparable bond between civil rights and labor rights.
Lessons for Today
"I AM STORY" is more than a historical recount. It draws parallels between the struggles faced by the sanitation workers in 1968 and the challenges laborers continue to confront today. Episodes like "We Will Never Stop" discuss the ongoing relevance of the strike's lessons, including the importance of non-violent resistance and the fight for workplace safety.
The podcast serves as a reminder that the struggles of the past are not just historical footnotes but are living lessons that continue to inform and inspire current and future labor movements.
A Multi-Faceted Narrative
Each episode of "I AM STORY" is a tapestry of voices and perspectives. From the workers who walked the picket lines to the leaders who strategized the movement, the podcast paints a comprehensive picture of the strike. The use of real footage and new interviews adds a dynamic and immersive quality to the narrative, making it not just informative but also emotionally resonant.
The Role of AFSCME and Saunders
AFSCME's role in the strike and its aftermath cannot be overstated. As a union, it not only supported the strikers in 1968 but has continued to advocate for workers' rights across various sectors. Saunders' leadership in AFSCME and his broader involvement in the labor movement position him as an authoritative voice on the subject. His insights bridge the gap between past and present, highlighting the ongoing relevance of the union's mission.
"I AM STORY" does more than just recount history; it invites listeners to reflect on the ongoing struggles for labor rights and to engage in current movements. It’s a call to action for listeners to not only appreciate the sacrifices of the past but to contribute to the ongoing dialogue and action in labor rights advocacy.
"I AM STORY" is a testament to the power of collective action and the enduring fight for dignity and justice in the workplace. It’s not just a podcast; it's a tribute to those who stood up against injustice and a reminder that their fight continues. In a world where labor rights are still a contentious issue, "I AM STORY" is as relevant today as the events it chronicles were over half a century ago.
An Award Winning Podcast
“I AM STORY”, is a multi-Signal Awards-winning history podcast (named a “best podcast pick” by The Guardian). The podcast is currently up for an NAACP Image Award for “Outstanding Podcast – Limited Series/Short Form.
You can cast your NAACP Image Award vote for “I AM STORY” by
🗳️ » Clicking here! « 🗳️
For anyone interested in the intersection of labor rights and civil rights, “I AM STORY" is an essential listen.