MODULE 3
The Left in the US today is divided on several key issues. One major fault line is the question of identity politics.
Many socialists argue that instead of emphasizing struggles against discrimination based on gender, sexuality or race, the Left should focus on “bread-and-butter” issues like wages and healthcare. In this module, we will critically reflect on the redistribution model of traditional socialist policies alongside the representation model of “identity politics.”
Learning Objectives:
- Reflect on how race, class, and gender intersects with politics and policy stances
Materials
For Groups:
For Individuals:
VIDEO LESSONS:
Takeaways
- We must transcend the “either/or” thinking between the redistribution of income and wealth and the “identity politics” of representation. Liberation requires the redistribution of material resources AND of leadership and visibility.
Readings
From Here to Equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the Twenty-First Century
William A. Darity Jr., A. Kirsten Mullen
Women, Race & Class
Angela Davis
Videos
“Breathing Life into Democracy”
Nwamaka Agbo and Francisco Pérez. Economics for Emancipation Podcast, Episode 4
“On Black Resilience and Being Loved”
Jessica Norwood and Nia Evans. Economics for Emancipation Podcast, Episode 1
“There’s No Such Thing as the Economy”
Kali Akuno and Penn Loh. Economics for Emancipation Podcast, Episode 2
“To Become Ungovernable”
Elena Letona and Gopal Dayaneni. Economics for Emancipation Podcast, Episode 3