Blueprints of Disruption

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 McLeanCall to Action: Support the Campaign to Divest Ontario Teachers Pension PlanRelated Episode: The Tenant Class, with Ricardo Tranjan, where the subject of real estate investment trusts is raised and the barrier pensions present;More Resources: The Maple: Major Canadian Union Calls for Divestment of TeslaBuy Tom's Book: Invested in Crisis – Between the LinesHuff Post: COVID-19 Has Killed 164 At Revera's Care Homes. Their Families Want Answers.

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 McLeanCall to Action: Take the Vote Palestine PledgeRelated Episodes: Our previous discussion with PYM, Return and Liberation;Canada's Colonial Imagination, with Tyler Shipley helps explain Canada's reaction to the occupation; and, Our entire Free Palestine PlaylistMore Resources: PYM on InstagramGuelph News: Which federal candidates support the Palestine Platform? - An example of a local news outlet covering candidates' positions on the Palestine Platform.Trends in International Arms Transfers (2021) - On Canada's growing prominence in the arms industry.Vote Palestine FAQs_____

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 McLeanCall to Action: Boycott Amazon CanadaRelated Episodes: CUPW Right to Strike was recorded immediately after Canada Post workers were ordered back to work. Its a candid discussion on the state of what's often touted as Canada's strongest union. Another guest from the CCPA, Richard Tranjan, with a discussion on The Tenant ClassMore Resources: Supreme Court Rules Walmart Broke QC Law - Global NewsUnion says Amazon closures in Quebec are an attack on unionization - rabble.caAmazon's Quebec closures are a wake-up call for Canada's labour movement - CCPAHow Quebec and Canada can make Amazon pay for union-busting - CCPAAll 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: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or on Bluesky

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 McLeanCall to Action: Stop the PRGT Petition, via Dogwood BCRelated Episodes:An interview with organizers from Change Course Canada. Drew mentions the supports they've received from this group in their campaign against the PRGT. Climate Justice: Knowing Friend from Foe, is a candid discussion with Torrance Coste of the Wilderness Committee on having to battle even the most progressive politicians in British Columbia.More Resources: PRGT pipeline hit with warning letter for environmental violations | Penicton HeraldPrince Rupert Pipeline Resistance | Watershed SentinelThe Breach: ‘Inherently racist': Wet'suwet'en leader on the crime of defending her landLax'yip Firekeepers Links and ResourcesSkeena Watershed Conservation Coalition

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 McLeanCall to Action: Call on UBC to Divest from Corporations Fueling Genocide and OccupationRelated Episodes: More on campus organizing with Change Course: Stigmatizing Capitalism on Campus Reflections on the student encampments from the Summer of 2024And more on the Palestinian Solidarity Movement in Canada, In Our Lifetime, a playlist.--------We go LIVE! every Friday at 12pm (ET) on our YouTube Channel - be sure to subscribe.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: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or on BlueskyMore Resources: UBC Divest on InstagramUBC Students Launch Hunger Strike to Demand Divestment | UBC DIVEST!CBC News: UBC Divestment Students Hunger StrikeUBC Okanagan students start hunger strike to demand divestment - Saanich News

"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 McLeanCall to Action: Donate to the Park Beach Tenants Legal FundRelated Episodes: Shifting Gears is a discussion w/Climate Justice Toronto on their own transition from an environmentalist grassroots org to one focused on supporting tenant organizing in the City. Voices for Unhoused Liberation is an interview with unhoused organizers and activists in Toronto.Tenant Power: a playlist of episodes that would have landlords shaking in their boots.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: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or on BlueskyMore Resources: CBC: Power to the renter: Vancouver Tenants Union hopes to put rep in every buildingVancouver Tenants Union: Basic of Unity

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 McLeanCall to Action: Call for an #ArmsEmbargoNowFollow the Refusenik Speaking Tour with Independent Jewish VoicesKeep talking about Palestine.Related Episodes: Support Systems Amid State Suppression a discussion with members of a legal support group in Toronto on the ways we can help each other navigate police state tactics. Disrupting Canada's Arms Trade is an interview with activist and organizer Rachel Small of World Beyond War.This episode has been added to our playlist, In Our Lifetime.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: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or on BlueskyMore Resources: IJV Activist Anna Lippman's SubstackMesarvot (Organization Website)The Israeli teens imprisoned for their refusal to join the army (Galway Pulse)Refusenik speaking tour March 2025 – Independent Jewish Voices Canada

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 McLeanCall to Action: Organize a Gaza Unbreakable: Week of Rage a call from the United Student Front for PalestineRelated Episodes: Student Encampments (May 2024), an analysis of the various encampments springing up across North America. Stigmatizing Capitalism on Campus, a discussion on campus organizing with folks from Change Course Canada.Lessons from the Peoples' Circle for Palestine (July 2024), on the University of Toronto student encampment. 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: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or on BlueskyMore Resources: Timeline: Protest encampments - University AffairsVIDEO: CBC Footage of Police Clearing Encampment Vancouver Island University suspends 2 students who were part of pro-Palestine camp - Saanich NewsVIDEO: Calgary Students Movement Footage of Police ViolenceThe Orchard: How the UCP Covered up Police ViolenceThe Orchard: UCalgary Palestine encampment's fate was sealed before a single tent was pitched

Episode 173Journalist 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:Process as Punishment, an interview with Movement Lawyers on the tactics used by Police and Prosecutors against Palestinian solidarity activists in Ontario;Watching Cops, a Toronto-based legal observer from the Orange Hats provides insight into the shifts in Policing protests over the past year and a half; and,Blockades and Bail Conditions, an Indigenous Palestinian Solidarity activist talks about their experience being arrested at an action and the use of bail conditions to intimidate and sideline them.Resources: Repression of anti-war voices an old Canadian story - Yves EnglerPEN Canada letter to Mayor and Police Chief of Montreal regarding Yves EnglerYves Engler - Canadian Author and ActivistAll of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on Instagram____________

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 FamiliesRelated Blueprints of Disruption Episodes:Jews Say No to Genocidethe IHRA, Fascism and Upholding Colonial Violence__________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Toronto Jewish FamiliesToronto Palestinian Families LinktreVIDEO: TDSB Delegations in Full (YouTube)VIDEO: Palestinian, Jewish families call on Toronto school board to address anti-Palestinian racismOPINION: Pro-Israel NGOs in Our Schools Put Kids at Risk - The Grind Magazine

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: Support the Toronto Community Justice FundRelated Episodes: Support Systems Amid State Suppression w/members of the Toronto Legal Support;Weaponizing Canadian Law for Israel w/journalist Martin Lukacs from The Breach; and,The IHRA, Fascism and Upholding Colonial Violence - on Canada's adoption of the weaponized definition of antisemitism.All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: The Breach: Secretive committee in Ontario ministry pushed crackdown on pro-Palestine activismCBC: Charges Dropped against pro-Palestinian protesterCBC: Charges dropped against woman filmed pulling Pro-Palestinian protester's hijabNora Fathalipour Bio | Nuance LegalArash Ghiassi Bio — Savards LLP | Toronto Criminal LawyersWhat is Movement Lawyering? — Movement Law Lab

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: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: What to consider when requesting legal support.Orange Hats 1st PRESS RELEASE

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:Fatima Saleh, Palestinian activist based in Edmonton, AB; and,Anna Lippman, organizer with Independent Jewish Voices and Labour for Palestine.CALLS TO ACTIONAnna's X thread of GoFundMe Pages for people in Gaza;Epicore Delivers Genocide; and,#ArmsEmbargoNow!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 ShipleyAll of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramMore Resources: The Maple: Trudeau Government Authorized $28.5 Million Of New Military Exports To Israel Since OctoberUN Office of High Commission: Israeli Forces Attack West BankEducation under attack in the Gaza Strip, as of 8 January 2024 - occupied Palestinian territory | ReliefWebAnna Lippman: Protesting Against Israel's Genocide of Palestinians Isn't Antisemitic - The Grind MagazineKeywords: Palestine, ceasefire, Canada, politics, activism, mental health #cdnpoli, #ArmsEmbargoNow

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: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or BlueskyResources: The Narwhal: Lessons from Ontario's Transition from CoalThe Narwhal - 5 things about Ontario youth-led climate case Ontario Government Site: Natural Gas Consultation Summary and ProposalNarwhal: Ontario didn't inform the public about advice urging a shift away from natural gasInvestigation: Ontario is taking cues from Enbridge Gas — a fossil fuel giant ‘freaking out' about its futureThe Narwhal (homepage)

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: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or on BlueskyWant 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: Unequal exchange of labour in the world economy (Jason Hickle)Recommended by Guest: The Red Clarion Atlantic Regional Communists ABOUT USKeywords: Marxism, politics, settler socialism, methodology, democracy, organizing, communism, anarchy

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: PatreonEnd Song Credit: "What Unions Did for You", Dave PomeroyResources: CBC: Labour minister asks Canada Industrial Relations Board to step into Canada Post contract dispute

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 #ArmsEmbargoNowCALL TO ACTION: Sign the Petition to End the Arms Embargo NowAll of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Democracy Now - Live Report from Action on Parliament Hill - JSNTGMore Links From: Jews Say No to GenocideJews Say No to Genocide on Instagram

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: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: There's anger behind the internet's reactions to the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO : NPRAP News: Hurry up and wait: Docs say insurers increasingly interfereForbes: How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?CNN: US Healthcare Rankings

Climate justice organizers talk about the changing landscape of campus organizing across Turtle Island, divestment as a tactic and the increasingly heavy hand of university administrators in so-called Canada.Celine, Levi and Evelyn all came to Change Course from different backgrounds and with slightly different political priorities, as we all do, but they have found common ground for growth in targeting the big banks for their role in the systems that oppresses us. Included are reports from Western University and University of Ottawa on their escalations against student demonstrations, and a workable list of skills we could all be working on. __________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Banks OFF Campus CampaignCBC: Western University Students BlindsidedIG Post on UofOttawa Sit-InHomepage - Change Course

The Nova Scotia NDP recently removed a candidate over their support for Palestine. This isn't the first time, not for the NS NDP or its counterparts across Canada. This episode provides insight into why so many members choose to stay and what the detriments of that are.For an even deeper dive, check out our podcast playlist, INSIDE THE NDP._______________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: CBC: Ontario NDP Removes Sarah Jama from CaucusGlobal News: NS NDP Candidate Tammy Jakeman Speaks Publicly

COVID AWARE ORGANIZINGIf we're going to build accessible, safe spaces to organize, that needs to include ways to reduce COVID transmissions amongst our comrades. Shira Lurie, a COVID aware activist with Protect our Province Nova Scotia (POPNS) and Mask for Mask Queers, joins host Jessa McLean to give easy, affordable precautions we can incorporate into our organizing and event planning. Filling in the gaps where our governments have failed to protect us isn't new to progressives. Neither is having to buck popular trends, or create new ones. So why the resistance to masking and other initiatives around air quality? We unpack that and how we can start to bring more people along, even after five years._______________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: COVID Conscious Under Capitalism - Blueprints of DisruptionRabble Rants: Mask Bans (podcast episode)Need a Mask? Can you Donate a Mask? DonateMask.caHow to build your own Corsi-Rosenthal Box - Corsi-Rosenthal FoundationGuest: Shira Lurie

Canada recently adopted the IHRA definition of antisemitism, which is nothing but unmasked anti-Palestinian racism that looks to criminalize criticisms of Israeli State. The Ontario Progressive Conservatives are going to pay organizations like CIJA $550 million to teach that definition in schools. Our hosts remind us all of this is coming at a time where the Canadian state is spending unprecedented resources on weaponizing the legal system against activists. The repercussions are already being felt.Within days of the adoption of the IHRA, the Crown dropped charges against a woman, not because she didn't commit the violence she was accused of, but because it was justified by the mere mention of a Free Palestine. Why is Canada so invested in defending Israel's occupation and genocide of Palestinians? People may not like the answer....________________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: CBC: Hijab Assault Charges WithdrawnCBC: Ontario expands Holocaust education in schools to combat rise in antisemitismHarsha Walia: Colonialism, racism and the IHRA | The Monitor

We will remember this 5th of November. A bonus Rabble Rants for the Blueprints of Disruption audience in response to the 2024 U.S. Presidential election.While some blame voters and activists, our hosts examine how the DNC is to blame and what the results mean for the movements we feature on the show. To be sure you don't miss another Rabble Rants, subscribe here. All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonBe sure to catch more RABBLE RANTS on its dedicated feed.You can also follow us on Instagram

This installment of the TENANT POWER series features three members of the Ottawa Neighbourhood Organizing Centre (NOC) and their work supporting tenants in their fight against landlords, and of course, capitalism. The work of the NOC began in the most organic way. By going into their community and talking to as many people as possible. Listening to their neighbours and finding common ground. Overwhelmingly, people needed and most importantly, wanted to fight, as tenants. Hear how they continue to learn from one another and build power where they are. Quite literally going door by door, building by building and block by block to Activate the Tenant Class. Guests: Seema Shafei, Shivangi Misra, Ethan MitchellCALLS TO ACTION: If you are a tenant organization, please reach out to NOC through their Instagram, or email us at bpofdisruption@gmail.comDonations can be made to the Bank Block Tenants here____________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: “A So-called Tenants' Union”: Defining the Organizational Power of Tenants within and outside the LawFollow NOC on Instagram

The wealthy bought up the neighbourhood like their own personal game of Monopoly. Now they want to tear down some of the only affordable units in Ottawa - places where some of called home for 40 years.Demovictions, like renovictions are eating away at the bottom of the housing market, targeting low cost rentals and turning them into places most people can not afford. Even with new renoviction bylaws in place, there is seemingly no help coming from City Hall for the tenants on Bank Street.We interview Ben Emond from Bank Street Tenants and ask about their beginnings; how they came together after all receiving N13s (eviction notices). We hear about the resistance they've faced from their landlord, the rubberstamping approvals process at City Hall and the tactics the these tenants are using to push back against it all.All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Bank Street Tenants Confront Smart Living Properties to say No to Mass Eviction - The LevellerLearn More – Bank Block Tenants

Support Systems Amid State Suppression with Dalia Awwad and Rachelle Friesen, both members of the Toronto Legal Support Committee.Toronto Police have escalated their harassment and surveillance of Palestinian solidarity activists across the City, with arrests nearing 100. Our guests provide firsthand accounts of the oppressive tactics being used and the impact they are having on individuals and the larger movement. But not to worry...Just as the tactics used by Police, the Crown, the media and politicians have been multi-faceted, so has been the response of these activists. Rather than go underground, stay quiet and 'out of trouble', they have risen up and created a community around the arrestees that goes way beyond legal support. All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Unlawful Assembly While Masked - Blueprints of Disruption | PodfollowBlockades and Bail Conditions - Blueprints of Disruption | PodfollowDonate to the Toronto Community Justice Fund

Journalist and human rights lawyer, Dimitri Lascaris on Lebanon, the resistance and bringing down an apartheid state. After returning from his fourth trip to Beirut in the past year, Lascaris describes the changes he's seen in Lebanon, laments on the depravity of our politicians and the need to reassert the right to armed resistance for the Palestinian people.All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Disrupting Politics with Dimitri Lascaris - Blueprints of DisruptionLebanon Palestine and Resisting Colonialism - Blueprints of Disruption

Unverified: The Grind Uncovers New Lows in Canadian MediaJournalist Dave Gray-Donald from the GrindTO spent months analyzing Canadian media reports and attempting to hold his follow journalists accountable for repeatedly printing unverified claims about October 7th, 2023. His piece, Global News and Postmedia Refuse to Correct Oct. 7 Falsehoods exposes some of the most horrific failures of our legacy media - but its not getting the exposure it needs......so we also discuss how to combat the impacts of shoddy, even malicious reporting by supporting independent media and good reporting when we see it.______________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Global News and Postmedia Refuse to Correct Oct. 7 Falsehoods - The Grind Magazine

Decades of climate organizing hasn't really produced many victories to feed off of. Why? Climate Justice Toronto took a hard look at the environmentalist movement, studied Labour organizing models and decided to undertake a major shift in their work. One that focused on actually challenging points of power while building their own. Hear how they went from a class-based climate organization to one that is almost entirely dedicated to tenant organizing, without compromising the end goal of defending the planet.CALL TO ACTION: Sign up for Climate Justice Toronto October 2024 Orientation - Action Network ___________________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Referenced Episode with York-South Weston Tenants UnionNational Observer (Seth Klein) The climate movement must shift gears or it's doneInstagram: CJTOClimate Justice Toronto –Homepage

Harm reduction advocates have their work cut out for them in this current political climate that has Provincial governments targeting their services using dehumanization language and legislation. Ola Skudlarska, of the Leslieville Harm Reduction Coalition helps myth bust some of the commonly used narratives to criminalize and displace people who use drugs. Safe consumption facilities have been the focal point of moral panic that is playing out in harmful legislation aiming to shut them down. Hear how people are coming together to defend these sites in their communities that provide support, connection, and a pathway to recovery for individuals who use drugs.All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Other Harm Reduction ResourcesToronto Life: Safe Consumption Site Kensington MarketToronto Star: Supervised Consumption Site What its Really LikeLeslieville Harm Reduction Coalition

230 Fightback has been battling over a crucial piece of real estate in downtown Toronto for a very long time. A real estate investment company, Kingsett Capital is who owns the building, but their fight has been just as hampered by Toronto City Hall.Hear how the campaign persisted through organizational changes, set backs and discouragement from their own City Councilor. All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramCALL TO ACTION:Contact KingSett Capital and Toronto City Councilor Chris Moise to protest against the redevelopment of 214-230 Sherbourne.History - 230 FightbackRabble: Questions remain about eviction of 150 Toronto seniors 2019Tenant Power - a Podcast Playlist

Our hosts get personal with their lived experiences with ADHD.Its a very candid discussion on how ADHD impacts their lives, the accommodations that help them thrive and the politics behind preventing us from realizing more inclusive spaces for neurodivergent folks.The episode was largely left uncut to better demonstrate some of the very characteristics people associate with ADHD, but also to challenge the misconceptions that are out there._________________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Referenced video: How to ADHD's Wall of Awful Part 1Related Episode: Autistic Resistance: The Foundations - Blueprints of Disruption

Hear a story of tenants forming a union to fight back against a slumlord, going on Rent Strike and winning! Bruno, an organizer with York-South Weston Tenants Union is back to share a victory from an unlikely place, the Ontario Landlord Tenant Board. We previously heard from Bruno on one of our favourite episodes, Blueprints of a Rent Strike. We don't just get the story - we get the blueprints of how they did it._________________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramAnd be sure to check out our other podcast: Resources: The Tenant Class - Blueprints of Disruption | PodfollowBlueprints of Rent StrikeFollow YSW Tenants Union on Twitter (X)

Canada's has deep ties to Haiti's current political dilemma, and deep pockets when it comes to meddling in their democracy. Since 2022, that is $300 million and counting. Teacher and writer Travis Ross, of the Canada-Haiti Information Project gets us up to speed on what is happening on the ground in Haiti right now and how we got there. It includes a foreign policy discussion, but also explains from a local perspective the various coalitions and classes battling it out on the streets of the capital, Port-au-Prince. Learn more on this topic:Referenced Documentary: Another Vision (YouTube)Follow Travis Ross on Twitter (X)Global Fragility Act Statement - President BidenCanada announces $123 million in funding to improve security in Haiti - Canada.caLatest News | The Canada-Haiti Information ProjectAll of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on Instagram

Alex Cosh, Managing Editor at The Maple joins us to talk about their work holding the powerful accountable. Their most recent story, ignored by Canadian media, is explosive, as it proves Trudeau has been lying about an arms embargo with Israel. There is lots to learn about the Canadian arms trade if we're going to shut it down.We also talk about the importance of finding the truth and exposing it - especially as it related to the work of the movements to disarm Israel.CALL TO ACTION: Get involved with #ArmsEmbargoNow____________________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Al Jazeera: Canada's Off the Record Arms TradeAppel and Cosh: Pierre Poilievre's Incoming War On Support For PalestineThe Maple: U.S. Names Quebec Contractor In Newly Approved Arms Sale To IsraelFollow Alex Cosh on Twitter (X)The Maple

Not only does Unicorn Riot put out impressive, badly needed content that covers our movements - but they do it using a decentralized, non-hierarchal model that we could all learn from. A model that frees their members, pulls in as many people as possible and gets a lot done with little resources. We get to talk to three members of Unicorn Riot about how they work with contributors from all over the globe to tell previously untold stories of resistance, state suppression and more. For example, they are the folks imbedded in the protests we're seeing around the Democratic National Convention (DNC). They certainly do provide, Blueprints of Disruption._________________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Unicorn Riot's Legal Defense Fund

Despite what they'll tell you, Scotiabank is feeling the heat from No Arms in the Arts, a coalition of cultural sector workers who have deftly weaponized the banks own PR machine to get them to divest from Israeli weapons manufacturers.Aliya Pabani from Canlit Responds and Michael DeForge of Writers Against the War on Gaza (W.A.W.O.G) talk about how they were able to turn Scotiabank's sponsorships of things like the Giller Prize and Hot Docs into liabilities as a means of pressure.Its also a discussion about creating, activating and structuring coalitions, encouraging folks to go beyond their craft and look beyond the typical leverage points.Resources: Attention Required! | CloudflareHow the Giller Prize Became Associated with Genocide | The WalrusCanlit RespondsToronto Star: Scotiabank Divests_______________________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on Instagram

Groups of White Nationalists took to the streets around the U.K. in a wave of racist, xenophobic violence in early August 2024. Although they attempted to capitalize on a tragedy to target mostly the Muslim Community, their numbers were small and the show of force against them daunting. Our hosts discuss the possibilities of this occurring in Canada, and what our response should be.______________________Don't miss our Rabble Rants; our newest podcast where hosts Jessa McLean and Santiago Helou Quintero comment on current news from an anti-capitalist perspective.All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources:

The City of Toronto evicted yet another encampment. When pressed for a reason, City Staff claimed it was at the behest of the organizers for Caribana. Marilyn Bell Park had been the home of several community members for the last year. Listen in as organizers with Voices for Unhoused Liberation tell that story and share what they're doing to fight back - not just against this latest eviction, but against the war on the poor.___________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Fundraiser by Unhoused Liberation : Support the Fight for Unhoused Liberation

Would a coalition, similar to what we saw in France, stop Pierre Poilievre in the next election? This is a scenario independent journalist, political analyst and author Jeremy Appel lays out in his recent piece for the Tyee.Jeremy joins host Jessa McLean to talk about the feasibility of a one-time political coalition to keep the Conservatives out of power, the need for electoral reform and the state of the electoral 'Left' here in Canada.Is voting a tool for change or simply harm reduction? Let us know what you think.All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources:

Their name represents the fact we are the Last Generation with the ability to do something meaningful on climate change. We interviewed their two full time organizers and asked them about what they call their "recipe for civil resistance" and their calls for an international uprising.These determined climate activists provide practical advice for other organizers, talk about their theories for change and discuss the organizations emphasis on non-violent disruptions._____________-All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonBe sure to catch our other podcast, Rabble Rants, where the same hosts give their take on Canadian news items. Follow us on InstagramResources:

Investigative journalist Martin Lukacs from The Breach discusses his investigations into Toronto Police's Project Resolute and the secretive committee in the Ontario Attorney General's office tasked with cracking down on Palestinian solidarity activism.A beefed up hate crimes unit is backed by a committee staffed with former Prosecutors who have openly declared their affinity for Israel and penchant for "leveraging criminal law for critical action". And we would have not heard anything about it had it not been for the tenacity of independent journalists like Martin and the mistakes of a local police board. Hear the whole sordid story....________________ All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Martin's Previous Appearance on Blueprints - Corporate Lobbyists Running the Workers' PartyThe Breach: Inside the ‘shocking' police operation targeting pro-Palestine activists in TorontoThe Breach: Secretive Committee in Ontario's Ministry for the Attorney General

The University of Toronto student encampment, named the People's Circle for Palestine, dismantled their tents after an Ontario Superior Court judge ordered an injunction against them. Our hosts break down the ruling, what it means for other encampments and bring up lessons learned from the end of just "one tactic in the toolbox" of students demanding their institutions disclose and divest. ________________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources:

Special Guest: Scott MartinWith special guest Scott Martin, we unpack the criticism and backlash faced by activists who disrupt and protest against climate change. In this case its Just Stop Oil, orange cornstarch and Stonehenge, but this conversation applies to all that disrupt the status quo.The repetitive and disingenuous arguments used by politicians and media to discredit these actions just underscore the need for more revolutionary optics and diverse tactics. We also look at the criminalization of indigenous land and water defenders in Canada and around the world, and the lack of media coverage on these critical struggles.All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Just Stop Oil homepage

Virtue Signaling?Subtitle: Red Keffiyehs and White Supremacists Our hosts rant after a seemingly innocuous (yet viral) tweet of Jessa wearing a red keffiyeh triggered both zionists and white supremacists, who felt quite safe to air their anti-Arab racism, misogyny and affinity for violence.As they unpack the response, they discuss individualism and lack of understanding of solidarity among right-wing ideologies, as well as the misconceptions around multiculturalism, cultural appropriation, and the complexity of the Palestinian resistance movement._________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources:

An expert panel of activists and independent journalists talk media strategy when it comes to setting the narratives around our movements.We find out from organizers Fatima Saleh (Edmonto and Anna Lippman what its been like responding to the ridiculous claims levelled at the Palestinian Solidarity movement, and what they've been doing to make sure our opponents don't decide the talking points. Journalists Dave Grey-Donald of The GrindTO and our very own Santiago Helou Quintero talk media strategies for activists - what works, who we don't talk to and ways to get your points across as effectively as possible. This was from an event livestreamed from our YouTube channel on June 18, 2024. To be at the next one, be sure to Follow us on InstagramAll of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonResources: Find Dave Grey-Donald on Twitter (X)Find Anna Lippman on Twitter (X)Find Fatima on Twitter (X)The GrindTO

Two special guests, Kim Crawley and Bothered Boy, join host Jessa McLean to talk about the mask bans being introduced in the United States, the attitudes here in Canada and the recent uptick in activists being charged for wearing COVID protective masks during direct actions.We keep us safe - wear a mask comrades. All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: REFERENCED EPISODE: Unlawful Assembly While MaskedAP NEWS: North Carolina Mask BanFind Bothered Boy on YouTubeKim Crawley's LinkTree

As we discuss and draw lessons from recent police actions at student encampments, peaceful protests and marches for genocide, it becomes clear exactly who is breaching the peace. McGill students escalated their actions and occupied a building on campus, while York University students finished setting up their encampment. Both had the police set on on them by the very people tasked with ensuring their safety. We talk about anarchist organizing, the need for backup plans, and remind folks to never trust these University Presidents.The discussion then moves to the Walk for Israel and the arrest of counter-protestors for breach of peace. This is contrasted with the egregious police violence at a Toronto rally that same weekend, where they stole a large Palestinian flag. Beyond getting mad - our hosts provide constructive takeaways for organizers everywhere. They provide, Blueprints of Disruption.---------------All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources:

The Canadian Socialist Rifle Association makes it clear - they are nothing like the notorious NRA, nor are they some sort of militia. In fact, a lot of their focus is on things like mutual aid and community defences that don't involve guns. But they do insist that all of us (gun owner or not) should, at the very least, be familiar with them. Listen in as we talk to CSRA Spokesperson Isla Jerowsky about fitting into Canadian leftist spaces, the misconceptions that come with 'rifle association', and the need to distinguish themselves as an exclusively socialist space.______________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Canadian Socialist Rifle Association – Canadian Socialist Rifle Association

CROSSPOSTED: From Rabble Rants FeedsTopic 1: All Eyes on RafahWe give an update for the week of May 24th, including the latest attacks on a 'safe zone', the lack of a US 'red line' and the creation of buffer zones that block the border with Egypt. Topic 2: Students and Labour Unite at UofT EncampmentAn Emergency Rally in the face of a possible injunction and police action saw Ontario Labour leaders pledge to "put their bodies between police and students". We give updates on the encampments, discuss the possibilities of escalation and vent about the hypocrisies of our politicians.__________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonResources:

Rachel Small, World Beyond War Canada's spokesperson, discusses the organization's work to disrupt the military industrial complex and challenge the culture of war using a variety of tactics.Lately, World Beyond War's focus has been on Gaza. They see their role as highlighting, Canada's complicity in the genocide via our role in the arms trade. Rachel shares details about their latest campaign, Arms Embargo Now, and the promise this moment holds for all movement. The conversation also explores the deep-rooted nationalism in Canada, how it contributes to the support for war and conflicts with our perception we are a peaceful country.______________All of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support us: PatreonFollow us on InstagramResources: Find a Weapons Manufacturer near you - CANADACALL TO ACTION: Stop Arming Genocide, World Beyond War