Immigration Raids and Union Suppression
Host: Davey D | Guest: John Reimann (OaklandSocialist.com)
In this powerful episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D speaks with longtime labor activist John Reimann about the intersection of immigration raids and union suppression. Reimann reveals that recent ICE raids in Los Angeles, particularly around sweatshops near Home Depot, have targeted areas with active union organizing campaigns led by SEIU and allied NGOs. He suggests the raids are not just about immigration enforcement—they’re being used to intimidate workers and disrupt labor movements.
Reimann points out the absence of employer pushback in L.A., unlike other cities, implying tacit employer approval or collaboration. He argues that the Trump administration, driven by figures like Stephen Miller, is using immigration policy as a weapon against labor and political opposition, especially in Democratic strongholds like Texas and California.
The conversation highlights the arrest and mistreatment of union leader David Huerta, and the weak or absent response from many union leaders. Reimann critiques mainstream political figures like Bernie Sanders for offering rhetorical support but failing to mobilize concrete labor action. He stresses that real power lies with workers—especially immigrant laborers in agriculture—whose collective action could disrupt the food supply and challenge Trump’s perceived dominance.
The interview ends with a call to action: Reimann urges listeners, especially union members, to demand mass rallies and broader labor solidarity campaigns. He emphasizes that true working-class unity requires standing with the most vulnerable—including immigrants, Black communities, and LGBTQ individuals.
For more, Reimann can be reached at 1999wildcat@gmail.com or read at OaklandSocialist.com.
Hard Knock Radio Highlights the Legacy of Hip Hop Pioneers Grandmaster Caz and MC Sha-Rock
In a lively and deeply reflective conversation, host Davey D welcomed Hip Hop trailblazers Grandmaster Caz of the Cold Crush Brothers and MC Sha-Rock of the Funky 4 Plus One to Hard Knock Radio. The interview served as a lead-up to the Bronx Revolution event at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, honoring Hip Hop’s origins and its foundational figures.
Caz, known for penning iconic rhymes and hosting NYC’s legendary Hush Tours, discussed the natural evolution of his radio career and how his love for writing helped shape his lyrical prowess. He emphasized the importance of preserving Hip Hop history, noting that his early rhyme books are now housed at Cornell University.
Sha-Rock, often credited as Hip Hop’s first female MC, spoke on her South Bronx roots, her adaptive emceeing style, and her commitment to educating youth about the culture’s foundation. She shared how she strategically loans her artifacts, including rhyme books stored at the Smithsonian, to ensure her legacy is respected and visible—not buried.
The two discussed ageism in Hip Hop, dismissing the notion that the culture is only for the young. Both see their current roles as elders as crucial to keeping the culture alive, engaged, and respected.
The conversation ended with excitement for the upcoming live event, which will feature live performances, community ciphers, and rare archival photos by Joe Conzo. Both artists stressed the urgency of reclaiming and preserving Hip Hop’s roots amid growing efforts to erase Black and Brown history from public institutions.
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.