The “Progressive” NBA Still Loves Israel
The NBA has presented itself as the most socially conscious of the major US sports leagues. But when it comes to Israel, the redlines are clear.
12 Articles by: Sean Jacobs
Sean Jacobs is an associate professor of international affairs at The New School and writes the Substack Eleven Named People.
How Israel Uses Africa to Try to Whitewash Apartheid
In the years after its violent formation, Israel tried to position itself as a member of the rising anti-colonial world. And today, despite its obvious role as an occupier, Israel is trying the same thing: establishing ties to African countries to shield Israel from criticisms that it’s an apartheid state.
Nigeria’s #EndSARS Protests Aren’t Just Opposing Police Brutality — They’re Opposing Neoliberalism
The #EndSARS movement has convulsed Nigeria for weeks, demanding an end to police brutality. But the protesters have something else in their crosshairs: the unequal, austerity-ridden status quo and the political class that defends it.
Why Kwame Nkrumah’s Socialist, Pan-African Vision Continues to Inspire Radicals Today
Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah was a postcolonial icon who tried to fight the forces of imperialism and capitalism to build a nation, continent, and world based on equality and self-government. That’s why, despite his faults, young people in Ghana today are resurrecting Nkrumah’s vision as a radical alternative to neoliberalism.
How We Remember Steve Biko
South Africa’s apartheid government murdered Steve Biko 43 years ago this month. But they couldn’t snuff out his political influence — the Black Consciousness leader remains a symbol of defiance against injustice and racial oppression.
Why South Africa Needs a Democratic Socialism
South African politics urgently needs an injection of electoral energy from the Left, that speaks in a language that resonates with voters, rejects chauvinism, and embraces democracy.
A Human, Not a Myth
We should resist constructing self-serving myths about political figures — even someone as heroic as Winnie Mandela.
From Zuma to Ramaphosa
Jacob Zuma won’t be remembered as a liberation hero, but as a corrupt leader who broke the South African left.
Zuma Is Not the Only Problem
From Donald Trump to Jacob Zuma, we can’t reduce politics to “getting rid of the bad guys” and expect to win.
Patrice Lumumba (1925–1961)
58 years ago today, Congolese prime minister and anticolonial leader Patrice Lumumba was assassinated.
South Africa’s Coming Two-Party System
Recent local elections show the bleak future of South African politics: two centrist parties and no left alternative.
What Muhammad Ali Believed
Muhammad Ali’s political life was as frustrating and contradictory as it was principled and selfless.