A New Era of Labor Organizing

Founded by abolitionists in 1865, The Nation has consistently reported on significant political and cultural events, maintaining a critical and progressive stance. A recent book shines light on a new wave of labor organizers as they endeavor to unionize their workplaces.

For over a generation, the standard advice to young people in the United States has been to pursue higher education. The promise was not immense wealth, but rather stability. A college degree was seen as a safeguard, protecting graduates from the riskiest segments of the labor market. With the decline of industrial jobs and the automation of clerical roles, having a degree seemed like essential coverage against these changes.

The alternative appeared daunting: falling into a service economy characterized by unpredictable hours, stagnant wages, and diminishing control over work. This narrative promoted education as a critical tool for navigating a rapidly transforming economic landscape.