Explore every episode of the podcast Blueprints of Disruption
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Machinery of Suppression: Bill C9 and the Weaponization of Antisemitism | 31 déc. 2025 | 01:04:53 | |
Activists from Jews Say NO to Genocide are working to challenge the coordinated narratives around the antisemitic violence at Bondi Beach in Australia - narratives that help pave the way for dangerous legislation like Canada's own Bill C9. Louise, also of Independent Jewish Voices, goes over Carney's pending Act to Amend the Criminal Code, and its possible ramifications. From the new intimidation offence, to the vague wording around restricted spaces and symbols, the case is made that this is another tool for the powerful to suppress opponents at will. Toronto based activist, Molly Kraft, also of SURJ Toronto, talks about how the prioritizing the feelings of some at the expense of the rights of others is all just part of the larger scheme to suppress dissent and benefit, not Jewish people, but white, Christian nationalists, Imperialism and ultimately, Capital. Gur Tsabar, of the Movement Media Hub and spokesperson for the group, says we need to be asking the hard questions in the immediate wake of events like Bondi Beach and October 7th. He insists its in those moments the machinery working against us goes into overdrive to lay the "moral foundation" for the horrors that come next. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Say NO to Bill C-9 (Action Network Petition) Related Episodes:
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| Agree to Disagree? Desmond Cole and Jessa McLean on Vetting, Yves' Campaign and the NDP | 17 déc. 2025 | 01:20:22 | |
Desmond Cole, acclaimed author and journalist at The Breach, sits down with host Jessa McLean to clear the air and contrast their positions around Yves Engler's campaign and the NDP's decision to block him. While disagreeing on a substantive amount of items, they still manage to find common ground - moving through conversations on vetting, insurgent campaigns, the legitimacy of tactics and more, in a productive way. Related Episodes:
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| Twice Betrayed: The NDP, the YMCA and Rana Zaman | 09 déc. 2025 | 01:07:16 | |
Halifax based community activist Rana Zaman has found herself in the midst of another smear campaign launched by Zionist lobbyists, and betrayed by the very institutions that once celebrated her. Back in 2019, the NDP withdrew her hard fought nomination - citing a three year-old tweet and pressure from organizations like B'Nai Brith and the Atlantic Jewish Council. We hear that story firsthand from Rana, as well as the impact it had on her emotionally and professionally. Its sadly similar to many of the stories we've told on the show - and its happening to her all over again. Her recent award, a Peace Medal from the YMCA, was quickly rescinded amidst a similar campaign from the AJC and other usual suspects. The YMCA did this despite already knowing Rana's history, and assuring her they would stand by her. Its a personal story, but also an institutional one. The story is part of a larger pattern that has far reaching consequences for members, the social movements they create, and Canadian politics in general. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Sign a Petition Demanding the YWMC Reinstate Rana's Peace Medal Related Episodes:
End Song Credit: Sean MacGillivray (with permission) More Resources:
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| Flooding the Zone: Police Raids on Peace Activists | 05 déc. 2025 | 00:25:27 | |
World Beyond War Canada organizer Rachel Small's home was recently raided by Police - at 6 a.m., while the entire family was asleep. They seized all of her electronic devices, including those of her children. At the very same time, Police were also raiding the homes of some of her fellow activists, and preparing those press releases. Their alleged crime? Peacefully protesting outside of what organizers had defiantly labelled, a "War Crimes Summit" - a gathering of Canada's weapons manufacturers, politicians and military brass. They'd gathered to help carve out more fortunes from the $89 billion in military spending coming their way. The guest list was also a who's who of Canada's arms trade with the Zionist occupation, companies who had been featured heavily in World Beyond War's most recent report (co-authored by the Palestinian Youth Movement) on the 'loopholes' these companies use to hide their participation in the genocide. Rachel describes what it was like waking up to officers in her house; how she prepared for this inevitability; how she explained it all to her children, and what supports she's had since the arrest. Hear how activists are building up the very thing Police seek to tear down, community. This isn't the first Blueprints guest to speak highly of the Toronto Legal Support Fund and the good people who have helped create a network of arrestees, lawyers and others to lean on while going through the often complicated and drawn out legal processes these charges lead to. What they don't often lead to is convictions. Rachel reminds us that despite the well over 150 charges laid against Palestinian solidarity activists, in the Toronto area alone, there has been only one conviction. Despite the injustice of the raids, and the increased criminalization of protestors, Rachel seems undaunted. Completely resolved in her mission. And we fully support her. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: DONATE TO TORONTO COMMUNITY LEGAL FUND Related Episodes:
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| Blocking Dissent: Updates from Yves Engler's Trial and Campaign | 03 déc. 2025 | 00:54:33 | |
NDP Leadership hopeful Yves Engler gives an update on his campaign, and discusses the implications of his recent criminal trial in Montreal. The arguments laid out by the Crown in his case, if successful, will reverberate throughout movements, particularly those who encourage followers to inundate state officials with emails. A guilty verdict also holds the potential to provide police officers with a level of anonymity that would make holding them accountable even more difficult. While defending himself against these charges, Yves' is also in the middle of a heated contention for nomination. Its been almost a month since he's submitted his vetting papers to an expectant committee, but no decision has been made. However, he does describe a string of incidents that may serve as writing on the wall. Hear what he thinks his chances are at being found not-guilty, and of passing the NDP vetting test... Hosted by: Jessa McLean Related Episodes:
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| War and Austerity: Unpacking Carney's 2025 Budget | 17 nov. 2025 | 01:21:21 | |
With the 2025 Federal Budget vote looming, Ashwin from the International Solidarity Podcast joins Blueprints host Jessa McLean to breakdown some of the $141 Billion in new spending and the cuts that will pay for it all. The biggest ticket item, $89 million for the Canadian Armed Forces, generates a discussion on global politics, the so-called 'elbows up movement' and the appetite for military spending the electorate seems to have. Together they compare the budget to campaign promises, the Throne Speech and the demands of the political 'opposition'. Jessa and Ashwin also discuss the likelihood of the budget passing, and what that will mean for Canadian politics. Related Episodes:
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| Elected Socialists: In Hostile Territory with Sean Orr | 11 nov. 2025 | 01:01:33 | |
Vancouver City Councillor Sean Orr, an avowed socialist elected in April 2025, dishes on what its been like navigating a system hostile to him and his ideas. Sean is very candid on the limitations and pressures facing principled progressives once they're in office. The struggle for socialists to simply exist in elected positions is clear, as is his determination to keep building on that win six months ago. Councillor Orr has some advice for New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani on how to maintain the momentum of a campaign while building parallel power outside City Hall. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Related Episodes:
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📺YOU CAN CATCH US LIVE EVERY FRIDAY AT 12pm E.T. on our YouTube Channel. All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support our work through monthly contributions: Patreon | |||
| Tenant Class Warfare: Fighting Back with YSW Tenants Union | 04 nov. 2025 | 00:50:05 | |
Tenants across Ontario were already mobilizing against Bill 60 when a bombshell dropped...Premier Ford floated an idea that would have stripped renters of almost all their rights. The good news: organizations like York-South Weston Tenants Union had already put in the work and created a structure that could quickly gather folks together and harness the energy that it generated. They were able to get the Premier to back off, but the work is not done. Hear from An, one of the organizers from YSW Tenants Union, about how they've mobilized hundreds of volunteers to not just push back against pending legislation, but to continue building the Tenant Class for more fights that are sure to come. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER IN THE FIGHT FORD'S WAR ON TENANTS (Ontario) Related Episodes:
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| Doctors' Duty: Travelling to Gaza | 28 oct. 2025 | 00:52:15 | |
After answering a call for general surgeons, Dr. Monica Chaudhuri, an Ontario doctor and activist, recently returned from Gaza. Dr. Chaudhuri shares what it was like working alongside the brave Palestinian healthcare workers, how cruel the Zionist entity can be, and reflects on what its been like returning to Canada while the genocide continues. Dr. Chaudhuri also talks about the sense of duty many Canadian healthcare workers feel, being the only international professionals, and thus eyewitnesses, allowed into occupied Gaza. A duty that extends beyond her role as a doctor, and into her community where she organizes with Health Workers Alliance for Palestine, Simcoe County 4 Palestine, and the Sustain Campaign Network. Hosted by: Jessa McLean and Santiago Helou Quintero Calls to Action: Related Episodes:
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| Canadian Mining Imperialism: Guatemala's 13 Brave Giants | 21 oct. 2025 | 01:01:20 | |
The Canadian Mining Industry is notorious for its patterns of aiding in regime change, displacing Indigenous peoples from their lands, and the horrific human rights abuses that go with all of that. Activist and author Grahame Russell of Rights Action shares his firsthand experience with a landmark legal case. One that exposed HudBay's use of sexual violence, destruction and death at the Felix mine in Guatemala, but through Canadian courts. Its a story of perseverance, grassroots resourcefulness and pure courage in the face of corporate giants working hand-in-hand with governments, including our own. Its also a discussion on Imperialism, Canada's role in the continued theft of indigenous land and what we can do about it. Hosted by: Jessa McLean and Santiago Helou Quintero Call to Action: When we asked our guest for a call to action for this episode, Grahame's reply was "Free Palestine'. We'd also encourage folks to read the entire 13 Giants Report. Related Episodes:
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You can find more of our content geared towards activists on our SUBSTACK All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support our work through monthly contributions: Patreon | |||
| Holding Institutions Accountable: TMU Lawsuit with Dimitri Lascaris | 14 oct. 2025 | 00:36:05 | |
Students from Toronto Metropolitan University have launched a $10 million lawsuit being launched against the school for falsely, and very publicly, labelling them antisemitic. Human rights lawyer Dimitri Lascaris, one of the lawyers working pro-bono on this case, joins Blueprints Hosts Jessa McLean and Santiago Helou Quintero to dish on the details and talk about its wider implications. Dimitri also shares updates from other related legal cases, including a historic challenge against the Canadian government's role in the genocide. Run time: 36 minutes Call to Action: You can donate to the Toronto Community Justice Fund or other local support initiatives that help activists navigate the legal system. Related Episodes:
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| Wave After Wave: Freedom Flotilla | 06 oct. 2025 | 00:28:07 | |
The recent Freedom Flotilla ships seized in international waters by the IOF were not the first, nor the last to try to break the illegal naval blockade on the, now starving, population of Gaza. Mskwaasin Agnew is aboard another vessel determined to draw attention to the issue and force western governments to act. She speaks about the need for risk and sacrifice, of making an impact and of how this is also part of the global Indigenous resistance to colonization. Mskwaasin, is an Indigenous Harm Reduction worker and fierce activist based in Toronto. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Track and Draw Attention to the Conscience's Mission Related Episodes:
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| Draw the Line: Connecting Movements | 17 sept. 2025 | 00:53:19 | |
Draw the Line isn't just a cross-country day of action on September 20th, 2025; activists involved have been building the structure and finding a basis of unity to bring together the movements in Canada who are all fighting the same thing - Capital. Three organizers from Draw the Line join the studio to talk about the work that went into connecting groups big and small, and finding enough common ground to build around something bigger. Hear about their five key demands, how they plan on turning this mobilization into sustainable mass organizing and what it means to "grow globally while acting locally". Guests:
Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Host Your Own Action for September 20th Related Episodes:
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Our podcast is also available on Our Substack, along with articles and more resources for the movements. All of our content is free - made... | |||
| Confronting Fascists at Christie Pitts | 11 sept. 2025 | 00:54:03 | |
Things are heating up at Christie Pitts, 92 years after the famous riot there. In the first half of this episode, John Clarke and host Jessa McLean talk about the Swastika clubs that sprung up in Toronto back in 1933, how they were emboldened by the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, as well as legitimized, even encouraged by the establishment here in Canada. These clubs, furthering white supremacist ideology, attacking Jewish community members were allowed to roam around the City until the community decided they had had enough. In the second half, Catherine Crockett of the General Defence Committee for the IWW reminisces on the 'lovely riot' of 1933, its long term impact on the community. They'll also share some of the details around the planned anti-immigration rally and what organizers of the counter protest planned for this Saturday, September 13th hope to see happen. Call to Action: Register to Attend Community Rally Related Episodes:
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Be sure to also check out our Substack - it has written material, resources, as well as all our podcast episodes broken down into playlists. All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support our work through monthly contributions: Patreon | |||
| Exposing Toronto Police Tactics | 04 sept. 2025 | 00:56:57 | |
Activist and journalist Benjamin Nolan has witnessed a shift in Police tactics over the past two years, particularly in how they deal with Palestinian solidarity protestors. Toronto Police won't admit to any of it and mainstream media fail to tell both sides, which has left an obvious gap in report Ben wants to step up and help fill. He goes over his recent piece in The Grind, Police Chief Plays Loose with the Truth in Call in Show, which opens up a lot of discussions about police violence, their use of the knee-on-neck technique and just what TPS thinks 'proportionate' responses are to peaceful protests. Ben also provides firsthand accounts of Police overreaching their authority and not following the law, as well as reports back on the amount of injuries Hosted by: Jessa McLean Calls to Action:
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| Demilitarize the AirShow | 28 août 2025 | 00:47:20 | |
The F35 is back at the Canadian National Exhibition and its airshow - so are the peace activists. For years peace activists, environmentalists, refugee advocates and even pet lovers have been protesting the annual four-day airshow that includes war planes over an urban centre, Toronto. However, there is a new sense of urgency this year, as well as new tools. A recent report revealed the extent of Canada's role in manufacturing components for the F35, the very plane delivering genocide from the skies over Gaza. Three organizers, who are also part of the larger anti-war movement, talk about the shifts the campaign has taken over the years, the challenges they're overcomming and the coalition building that makes it all possible. Guests:
Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Contact and Call on Your City Councillor to Demilitarize the AirShow Related Episodes:
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| UNIFOR's Hot Cargo: Labour Internationalism | 25 août 2025 | 00:59:56 | |
The work behind the Arms Embargo Now Report revealed that there are unionized workplaces in Canada making weapons destined for Israel. World Beyond War organizer called this information, along with a recent letter from Unifor's President "an opportunity" for positive action. Activists from Labour for Palestine are going into this week's UNIFOR convention in Vancouver with this top of mind. They are working on a campaign to have any goods or services coming from, or going to Israel, declared 'hot cargo'. They know the majority of Canadians, and thus UNIFOR members, are against the genocide, but that doesn't mean there aren't going to be obstacles in their way. In a political climate defined by fear and heightened nationalism, it has been a challenge getting workers to prioritize Palestine. Hear what work is being done to pave the way for more Internationalism not just inside UNIFOR, but within all Labour institutions. Guests:
Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Tell the CLC to Declare Israeli Goods 'Hot Cargo' Related Episodes:
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| Defying Orders: Air Canada Workers on Strike | 19 août 2025 | 00:44:14 | |
Over 10,000 CUPE unionized Air Canada workers defied the orders of the nation's labour board, stayed off the job and secured a tentative agreement. Kim Siever, Labour Journalist for the Alberta Worker joins host Jessa McLean to talk about what led up to the strike, the Liberals' liberal use of back-to-work legislation and what this means for Canadian Labour. They draw comparisons to other back-to-work orders and try to predict what might happen next... Related Episodes:
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| The West Bank: "We Don't Break" | 13 août 2025 | 00:55:09 | |
A discussion on recent events in the West Bank with activist, Anna Lippman of Labour 4 Palestine. Anna helps tell Awdah Hathaleen's story, one that is sadly, a case study of how ethnic cleansing has intensified in the West Bank at the same time Gaza has been under siege. Instead of F35s and armed drones, the Israeli authorities aid and abet settler violence to remove Palestinians from their land using tactics reminiscent of the Nakba. How are the people of Umm Al Khair, Awda's village resisting? What can you do to help? What does this mean amongst new promises to recognize a Palestinian State? We attempt to answer these questions, as well as provide related geopolitical updates and news from the movement. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Cover Photo Credit: Emily Glick (used with permission)
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| Feeding the Beast with the Movement Media Hub | 05 août 2025 | 00:43:23 | |
Imagine a PR Firm for the movements... Gur Tsabar from the Movement Media Hub joins Host Jessa McLean to talk about the work he does to help organizations get their message out there in an environment often hostile to their stories. Whether it be through traditional mainstream media, or by using resources within the movement, Gur shares tactics that help amplify the work being done on the ground. He also talks about the forces he's often up against; the commodification of media, the Zionist lobby and complacent newsroom bosses' Episodes done with the help of the Movement Media Hub:
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| Arming Israel: Canada's Continued Role | 29 juil. 2025 | 00:48:03 | |
Representatives for the Arms Embargo Now campaign have released a scathing report that shows Canada has been actively arming Israel as recently as July 2025. Haneen from the Palestinian Youth Movement and Rachel from World Beyond War, share details included in the report, including what kind of weapons we're sending, where they're going exactly and the routes these shipments are taking. They also provide an inside look into their methodology, their motivations and what they'd like to see happen as a result - namely a "political crisis" for the Canadian government. With this information, the activists behind the report will be helping to mobilize folks, including (hopefully) elements in Labour that have close connections to these weapons. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: REGISTER FOR URGENT MOVEMENT MEETING Related Episodes:
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| Carney's First 100(ish) Days: A Paradigm Shift, with the International Solidarity Pod | 22 juil. 2025 | 01:45:13 | |
In a joint episode with the International Solidarity Pod, hosts Ashwin and Jessa breakdown Canadian PM Mark Carney's first 100(ish) days in office. Together they go over the details, context and implications of controversial legislation already passed, promised made and foreign policy positions taken by the banker turned politician. Topics covered:
On top of highlighting what the Liberals have been up to, we go over the resistance mounting to these changes and what the Left's role could (or should) be. More Resources:
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| Freedom Flotilla Coalition: Onboard the Handala with Dr. Yipeng Ge | 14 juil. 2025 | 00:21:35 | |
Family physician and activist, Dr. Yipeng Ge answers questions about his current journey from deck of the Handala. The humanitarian aid vessel is the latest attempt by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition to break the naval blockade on Gaza by sea - something activists have been trying to do since at least 2007. We ask Dr. Ge why he's chosen to travel to Italy and take the risk of engaging with Israeli forces, and what he hopes to get out of it all. We also get to find out what it takes to prepare for and execute such a complex action, under such dangerous conditions. But despite all the risks being taken, Dr. Ge repeatedly refocuses the discussion back to those taking the most risks - Palestinians fighting for liberation, as well as migrants crossing the very same waters. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Ways to help the Freedom Flotilla Coalition Related Episodes:
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| Yves Engler: Next Leader of the NDP? | 08 juil. 2025 | 01:02:01 | |
Journalist, author and activist Yves Engler talks about his recent announcement to run for Leader of Canada's NDP and what he's expecting to achieve from what is likely to be a contentious endeavor. Will the NDP, notorious now for their mistreatment of activists, even allow Yves to run? What kind of barriers does he expect will be put in his way? How will he handle it? What is the driving force behind Engler's run? What impact does he think he would have as the leader of a Party with only seven (7) seats? He answers all these questions and more with a candor we typically don't expect from politicians. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Related Episodes:
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| United Against Genocide: Name It. Stop It. Sanction It. | 01 juil. 2025 | 01:03:51 | |
What will it take for the Canadian government to recognize what is happening in Palestine as a genocide? This growing coalition aims to find out. Three members of United Against Genocide join the studio to explain why that key word matters so much, and what they're doing to add to the pressure politicians must be feeling at this point. They share what its been like meeting with high ranking officials, and what their expectations of new PM Carney were heading into the G7. They openly challenge the notion that this is simply a humanitarian crisis that needs better handling or funding by exposing the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation's role in this horrific stage of the genocide. Guests:
Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Tell PM Carney to Stop Covering for Israel (PETITION) Related Episodes:
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| The Revolution Party of Canada | 23 juin 2025 | 01:01:12 | |
Three candidates from the Revolution Party of Canada talk about the "high chaos" that comes with starting a new political party from scratch and what their aims are, beyond being an alternative to the NDP. Kira Loughlin, Matthieu Labelle-Tassé and Troy Roberts join Host Jessa McLean to also talk about the lessons they learned in the last federal election, their expectations for the next and what exactly sets them apart from the NDP. Related Episodes:
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| A Tribute: My Father's Daughter | 19 juin 2025 | 01:06:12 | |
Dedicated to Ian (John) McLean - January 5, 1952 - June 17, 2025 A discussion about passing down working class consciousness through generations and what we choose to do with that knowledge. To pay tribute Host Jessa McLean's late father we are resharing their interview together from 2023. He shares how he too was politicized at a young age, and how his involvement in the trade union movement shaped how he understood power structures, politics and his own purpose. Together, they sound off on their own experiences with the NDP, which are unsurprisingly similar. Jessa would like to thank the great healthcare workers at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto for their care and compassion, as well as the many comrades who have sent their condolences and shared their own memories of her father in the good fight. | |||
| StopGenAI: Mutual Aid for a Coming Age | 10 juin 2025 | 00:53:37 | |
Activists from StopGenAI.com provide a litany of reasons why they think we should be ridding ourselves of this pervasive technology altogether: Its environmental impact, privacy concerns, exploitation, and even detrimental impacts to our individual and collective abilities to think or create. It is also replacing jobs at incredible rates, albeit inadequately. But this is of no concern to the technocrats pushing GenAI or the politicians prioritizing it. This is where mutual aid comes in. Guests Kim Crawley and Neha share the creative ways they're also raising funds for folks most impacted by the expansion of GenAI. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: StopGenAI Fundraising Initiatives Previous Episodes with Kim Crawley:
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| Suppressing Voices in the School Boards | 03 juin 2025 | 01:08:41 | |
Labour 4 Palestine Ontario Education Workers issued a scathing report in April 2025, on anti-Palestinian racism within the Province's school boards. The report, School Delegations for Palestine, documents and analyzes months of delegations given to Trustees across the Province that mostly went ignored. Four Education Workers from various backgrounds talk about their personal experiences with suppression, weaponized antisemitism and other ways their workplaces are unwelcoming to any displays of humanity towards Palestine. They also talk about the work being done to pressure school boards to cut ties with the problematic organizations that are largely responsible for fostering an environment of fear and anti-Palestinian racism. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Stay in Contact with Labour 4 Palestine Related Episodes:
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Intro Clip Source: Critiquing the TDSB Israel Proposal: A Jewish Perspective | TikTok 📺YOU CAN CATCH US LIVE EVERY FRIDAY AT 12pm E.T. on our YouTube Channel. All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support our work through monthly contributions: Patreon | |||
| The Skeptical Leftist Meets Blueprints of Disruption | 28 mai 2025 | 00:56:47 | |
A cross-posted episode from The Skeptical Leftist podcast that features Blueprints of Disruption Host, Jessa McLean. Together with Cory Johnston, they discuss the NDP collapse, the rise of another corporate technocrat and more reactions to the Canadian federal election results. Also on the table: why the left keeps falling for electoral traps, what the NDP's collapse means for the broader left, and why organizing outside the system is more urgent than ever. Related Episodes:
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| Nourishing Community | 13 mai 2025 | 01:07:54 | |
Migrant workers in the gig economy are arguably the most exploited labour force in Canada. Derailing Dignity, an art installation and sound piece opening May 16th, encourages people to make the connection between the convenience of online food delivery services and the human beings making it all happen. The exhibit opens May 16th, and is part of the 40th annual Mayworks Festival in Toronto. It was created by Krish Dineshkumar, a cook, sound producer, activist and artist, who is constantly looking for creative ways to build empathy. He joins the Blueprints studio to share his creative process, the motivation behind using art as a tool of engagement and the other ways he works on nourishing the community. He calls it 'heartwork', and makes the caring case that its something we could better prioritize when we think about organizing. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Support Gig Workers United Related Episodes:
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| Layton’s Legacy and the Decline of the NDP | 06 mai 2025 | 00:57:50 | |
In order to best understand what happened to the NDP in the 2025 federal election, one has to learn about the decisions made under Jack Layton. Who better to help us do this than historian and author of From Layton to Singh, Matt Fodor. This is a follow up to Matt's first appearance on the show where he explained in great detail how the team responsible for the Orange Crush deliberately and possibly permanently changed the course of the Party. Hear why a leadership change just won't do and what Labour's role in all of this has been. Its essential listening for anyone considering reforming the NDP, as is the rest of the Inside the NDP playlist. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Related Episodes:
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| Cutting Through the Knot of Social Investment with Tom Fraser | 29 avr. 2025 | 00:49:22 | |
Did you know that some public sector pensions, like the Ontario Municipality Employees Retirement System (OMERS) invests in the very companies that contribute to the exploitation of retirees and the commodification of aging? That is just one example of 'social investments gone awry' that author and researcher Tom Fraser brings to our discussion from his book, Invested in Crisis, Public Sector Pensions Against the Future. He explains how we got to the point where (mostly unionized) workers are heavily invested in real estate across the globe, pipelines, privatized healthcare and water infrastructure, and other industries we're mobilizing against. Good news is Tom also talks about potential solutions and ways out of this cycle of trying to secure power over industries by investing in them. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Support the Campaign to Divest Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Related Episode:
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| Vote Palestine! | 22 avr. 2025 | 00:51:26 | |
Find out why and how the Palestinian Youth Movement (PYM) chose to intervene in the 2025 Federal Election. VotePalestine.ca is more than a listing of candidates who have signed onto the Palestinian Platform. Yara Shoufani of the PYM explains the strategy behind the campaign, their expectations of politicians and, its long terms goals around mobilizing power. The discussion also provides a great overview of the work the PYM has been doing since we last spoke to them, and specifics on how they're continuing to build capacity and bring people into the movement for a Free Palestine. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Take the Vote Palestine Pledge Related Episodes:
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| How to Take Down Amazon, with Jon Milton | 15 avr. 2025 | 00:38:33 | |
In January 2024, shortly after workers in their Laval location had unionized, Amazon announced the closure of its facilities in Quebec. In a most egregious union busting moves, Amazon left 2,000 people out of work and walked away from significant investments in infrastructure to make sure workers wouldn't get a say in their conditions. Jon Milton, Senior Communications Specialist with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, shares some of the ways Labour, the community and municipalities are fighting back against Amazon. Jon also has some tactics not yet deployed to 'bring down' this corporate giant AND its exploitive business model. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Boycott Amazon Canada Related Episodes:
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| Lax’yip Firekeepers: Giving Voice to a Generation | 08 avr. 2025 | 00:43:48 | |
The Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Pipeline, if built, would transport Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) 800 km, across 1,000 different waterways. Its approval is based on an inadequate, outdated environmental assessment and the youth of the Gitz’an Nation are not having it. Indigenous activist Drew Harris from the Lax-yip Firekeepers talks about stepping into a role she never imagined for herself after seeing an absence of young voices at the table. She takes us through her journey into activism, and how they've been working to bridge generation gaps, build knowledge and expand their capacity to do more. Their beginning lay in fighting the pipeline, but the youth found that, once provided with a voice, a venue and receptive ears, they had goals way beyond resisting resource extraction. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Stop the PRGT Petition, via Dogwood BC Related Episodes:
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| Student Hunger Strike - Only a Matter of Time | 01 avr. 2025 | 00:55:08 | |
Student activists at two University of Colombia (UBC) campuses have decided upon one of the most extreme forms of non-violent protest - a hunger strike. It wasn’t a brash decision by any means, and it is by far the first tactic they’ve deployed. In this episode, they detail just how they got to this point of escalation in their efforts to have their University divest from weapons manufacturers. They also provide details on how they prepared for this act of defiance, how they’re taking care of one another during it and what it will take to end their hunger strike. Other great takeaways are the many ways these folks utilize their campuses to build community and create space for more folks to step up into the fight. There’s also a lesson in leaning on those who came before you, to both better inform your plans and support you through the act. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Call on UBC to Divest from Corporations Fueling Genocide and Occupation Related Episodes:
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| Basis of Unity: Vancouver Tenants Union | 25 mars 2025 | 01:04:36 | |
"The Tenant Class is Here" and they are a force to be reckoned with. Vancouver Tenants Union organizers Asura Enkhbayar and Ben Ger provide insight into their work building power from below, some of it in neighbourhoods with the highest concentration of renters on the continent. The variety of campaigns they’ve got going on doesn’t just speak to the complexity of issues facing tenants, but also to the value of a decentralized organization that’s able to respond locally, as needed. They also share the journey their organization has gone on over the past decade, and how tough lessons led them to a Basis of Unity and a new way forward. Hosted and Produced by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Donate to the Park Beach Tenants Legal Fund Related Episodes:
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| Refusing to Enlist | 18 mars 2025 | 00:40:27 | |
Two Refuseniks from Tel Aviv talk candidly about Israeli society's reaction to their movement and the supports they've created to make it easier for more youth to refuse enlistment in the IDF. Tal Mitnik and Einat Gerlitz share their story, while also acknowledging despite all they've been through during their stints in military prison, it can't compare to the situation of Palestinian youth their age. Comparisons are made to Canadian settlers; both our states' being predicated on ethnic cleansing and colonial violence, and the struggle to decolonize spaces from within while understanding our role in maintaining that same colonial state. Their assessment of Israeli society at the moment, and the possibilities for peace are instructive, but difficult to hear. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action:
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| Student Suppression By Any Means Necessary, with Jeremy Appel | 11 mars 2025 | 00:57:07 | |
Journalist Jeremy Appel has uncovered proof Danielle Smith's government set the stage for universities in Alberta to quickly and violently have student encampments cleared from their campuses. The timeline of evidence predates the protest, with numerous communications disseminating Zionist talking points and demonizing the Palestinian solidarity movement. We then find out how the University of Calgary Staff, Police and the Province worked seamlessly to coverup the truth about the violent eviction of peaceful student protestors back in May 2024. That was, until Jeremy got on the case. Hosted by: Jessa McLean Call to Action: Organize a Gaza Unbreakable: Week of Rage a call from the United Student Front for Palestine Related Episodes:
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| Trying to Silence Yves Engler | 04 mars 2025 | 01:16:09 | |
Episode 173 Journalist and Activist Yves Engler discusses the charges against him, the very thing Montreal Police tried to stop him from doing. As Yves tells the story of his arrest and the five days he spend in jail fighting suppressive bail conditions, he reflects on the supports he received, Canada's history of attacking activists, and the deeper issues surrounding incarceration. During the interview with Host Jessa McLean, Yves uses the phrase 'Zionist Lawfare' to describe the ways in which Canadian Law was weaponized against him at the behest of Pro-Israeli figures. END SONG CREDIT: David Rovics, What's Going on Here Montreal? (2025) Related Episodes:
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| A Space to Exist: School Boards and Anti-Palestinian Racism | 19 févr. 2025 | 00:55:05 | |
Toronto Palestinian Families and Toronto Jewish Families talk about their within the Toronto District School Board. Their most recent campaign was in response to a report submitted to and adopted by TDSB Trustees that explicitly conflates the political ideology of Zionism with Jewish identity. Iman and Lev both testify to an environment rife with anti-Palestinian racism and misrepresentations of what antisemitism is, even before the presentation of the report. If implemented, political expressions for Palestine would be categorized as discrimination, leaving Palestinian/allied students and educators without a voice. CALL TO ACTION: Join Toronto Palestinian Families Related Blueprints of Disruption Episodes: __________ All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: Patreon Resources:
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| Process as Punishment: Prosecution of Protest | 11 févr. 2025 | 00:56:14 | |
Movement lawyers Nora Fathalipour and Arash Ghiassi have their hands full defending activists targeted by Police and prosecutors, particularly in Ontario where a Hate Crimes Working Group in the Attorney General's office has an explicitly racist mandate. Hear first hand the process police and the Crown are putting people through in order to intimidate, silence and criminalize movements. Even though most charges are dropped, the ordeal of having a publicized arrest, bail conditions and the process to clear their name can take a toll on activists. This is why having legal representation that understands the broader issues at play is so important. Political interference and anti-Palestinian racism are setting the tone for Police and prosecutors, but the community, together, is learning how to navigate it all so our comrades can remain free to fight another day. CALL TO ACTION: Related Episodes:
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| Watching Cops: Advice for Activists | 04 févr. 2025 | 00:57:45 | |
The Orange Hats join host Jessa McLean to share some of the knowledge they've acquired by documenting the Toronto Police harass, intimidate and brutalize activists at actions. Hear stories from the front lines, learn some of the dangerous trends in policing, and get LOTS of tips on how navigate the tactics being deployed against our movements. All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: Patreon Resources: | |||
| Ceasefire Now What? | 28 janv. 2025 | 00:55:30 | |
Unpacking the ceasefire and our feelings around it isn't easy, so who better to help us than Fatima Saleh and Anna Lippman? These two Palestinian Solidarity Activists have been at the front lines for a ceasefire for 15 months, a Free Palestine even longer. How are they feeling about seeing people return to the north of Gaza, or about Trump's comments about what's next for the region? Its a bit complicated. While we can feel joy and relief in the moment, both our guests are clear - we need to keep up the pressure on politicians, continue our education and create more disruptions. Guests:
CALLS TO ACTION
Related Episodes: Answering the Call: Labour for Palestine w/Anna Lippman Disrupting Canada's Arms Trade w/World Beyond War's Rachel Small Canada's Colonial Imagination w/Tyler Shipley All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: Patreon More Resources:
Keywords: Palestine, ceasefire, Canada, politics, activism, mental health #cdnpoli, #ArmsEmbargoNow | |||
| Doug Ford's Toxic Relationship with Enbridge Feat. Fatima Syed of the Narwhal | 21 janv. 2025 | 00:37:23 | |
Frenzied communications, coordinated attacks on regulators, and a report withheld from the public...hear it all from someone with their eye on Ontario's energy portfolio, Investigative Journalist Fatima Syed of The Narwhal. Fatima joins Host Jessa McLean for a deep dive into Ontario Premier Doug Ford's troubling relationship with natural gas and its provider, Enbridge; a relationship that dates back to his very first days in office and which really came to light when the PC government took the unprecedented move of overruling the Ontario Energy Board. The latter part of the episode focuses on stories of resistance inside Ontario, spearheaded by Indigenous activists. _______________ All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: Patreon Follow us on Instagram or Bluesky Resources:
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| Reimagining Politics and Demystifying Communism with ARC | 13 janv. 2025 | 01:21:57 | |
An interview with the Atlantic Regional Communists who were founded through a disillusionment with the 'bourgeoise Canadian political system'. Rather than simply starting a new Party, they have created something entirely different. With so many of us looking for alternative ways to engage in politics, this discussion is great for those trying to decide where to start. As Comrades E and M discuss their journey as a group, it opens up further discussions on the concept of a vanguard party, intersectionality and Marxism, Land Back, centralized authority, and more. Song Credit: Ain't Done Nothing if You Ain't Been Called a Red, Faith Petric. Performed LIVE in 1984. __________________ All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: Patreon Follow us on Instagram or on Bluesky Want even MORE content from these creators? We go LIVE with RABBLE RANTS every FRIDAY at NOON E.T. on the Blueprints of Disruption YouTube Channel. Our hosts unpack the mostly Canadian news items of the week. Resources:
Keywords: Marxism, politics, settler socialism, methodology, democracy, organizing, communism, anarchy | |||
| CUPW: Right to Strike? | 07 janv. 2025 | 00:39:43 | |
After almost five weeks on the line, a 96% strike mandate and many concessions, Canadian Postal Workers weren't able to have a say in their contract, yet again. What does it mean when one of the strongest unions in Canada hasn't been able to negotiate a fair deal in 12+ years? Find out from the rank and file what happened and where they can go from here. Strike Captain, Stop Steward and Mail Carrier Sera sits down with Host Jessa McLean to talk about the dealings with Canada Post bosses, the attempts to build militancy inside the union and more... All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: Patreon End Song Credit: "What Unions Did for You", Dave Pomeroy Resources: | |||
| Jews Say No to Genocide | 19 déc. 2024 | 00:48:16 | |
Two organizers from this growing coalition unpack their recent action on Parliament Hill, and the identity crisis being purposely crafted by the Israeli lobby to thwart the work being done to liberate Palestine. Serena Sairan and Lauren Moses-Brettler, both from Jews Say No to Genocide, join Host Jessa McLean, for a discussion about individual responsibility, group decision making in a fluid political environment and finding new ways to keep the pressure on Canadian politicians to realize an #ArmsEmbargoNow CALL TO ACTION: Sign the Petition to End the Arms Embargo Now All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: Patreon Resources:
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| Rabble Rants: Deny, Defend, Depose | 13 déc. 2024 | 00:42:45 | |
What are we to think of the public's response to United Health CEO Brian Thompson's death? Cross-posted from our Rabble Rants feed: Hosts Jessa McLean and Santiago Helou Quintero provide a class analysis of the case and the media frenzy around it. They also give insight into just how bad a company United Health is, and what our reactions should be to social murder. Song credit (end of episode): Jesse Welles, via TikTok To be sure you catch all our Rabble Rants, subscribe wherever you catch your podcasts. ______ All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: Patreon Resources:
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