Alec Baldwin backs union drive at Starbucks

The podcast discusses the significant resurgence of the organized labor movement in the United States over the past decade. After a long decline since the mid-20th century, characterized by a shrinking union membership and diminished influence, recent years have seen a notable increase in unionization efforts, strikes, and worker militancy across various industries. Notable examples include the teacher strikes of 2018-2019, the 2023 auto workers and Hollywood strikes, and union drives at Amazon and other big companies. The movement is driven largely by young workers, particularly in service industries, who are leading the charge to improve working conditions and challenge corporate power.

A core focus of the episode revolves around the ongoing unionization campaign at Starbucks, which began in Buffalo, NY in 2021. The campaign has since expanded to over 600 stores nationwide, despite aggressive union-busting tactics from Starbucks' corporate leadership, including the firing of union organizers and store closures. The new documentary, 'Baristas vs. Billionaires,' chronicles this five-year struggle from the perspective of workers and organizers. The film aims to expose corporate tactics and showcase the resilience of the working class, with involvement from notable figures like Alec Baldwin, who is a producer on the film.

The podcast features discussions on the role of high-profile unions such as SAG-AFTRA and the impact of celebrity support in labor struggles. Alec Baldwin, a union member and actor, emphasizes that much of Hollywood's labor power comes from its well-known members advocating for broader worker rights. The conversation highlights how stars like Baldwin and Susan Sarandon can shed light on issues affecting everyday workers, like the struggles of low-paid actors or gig workers. The importance of solidarity and leveraging cultural visibility to support less visible worker struggles, such as those at Starbucks or in manufacturing, is underscored.

A debate is presented on whether Hollywood can or should contribute to building class consciousness through storytelling. It is noted that most films are primarily for entertainment and profit, but successful projects like 'Baristas vs. Billionaires' could inspire wider awareness of labor issues. The hosts discuss the potential for media to influence public perceptions, especially if stories of worker struggles gain popularity. The importance of films and documentaries as tools for activism and education is emphasized, as well as the possibility that increased union success, such as in Starbucks, might encourage Hollywood to produce more labor-centric stories.