Eric-Mann, also known as Eric Mann, is an American activist, writer, and organizer, particularly noted for his involvement in civil rights and social justice movements. Here is a detailed overview:
Biography
Eric Mann was born on August 10, 1942, in New York City. His early life was marked by his participation in the civil rights movement, where he became deeply involved with organizations like the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC).
Activism and Career
- 1960s Civil Rights Movement: Mann was actively involved in the fight against racial segregation and discrimination, participating in sit-ins, freedom rides, and voter registration drives.
- Anti-Vietnam War Activism: He was also a significant figure in the anti-Vietnam War movement, notably with the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS).
- Labor Organizing: After moving to Los Angeles in the 1970s, Mann focused on labor organizing. He worked with the United Auto Workers (UAW) and was instrumental in organizing workers at General Motors and other auto plants.
- Formation of the Labor/Community Strategy Center: In 1989, Mann co-founded the Labor/Community Strategy Center (LCSC), which aims to address issues of urban environmental racism, mass transit, and workers' rights.
- Environmental Justice: Through LCSC, Mann has been involved in campaigns against urban freeways and for public transportation, notably the Bus Riders Union's lawsuit against the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).
Publications
Mann is an author of several books and articles, including:
- Comrade George: An Investigation into the Life, Political Thought, and Assassination of George Jackson (1974)
- Taking on General Motors: A Case Study of the UAW Campaign to Keep GM Van Nuys Open (1987)
- Dispatches from Durban: Firsthand Commentaries on the World Conference Against Racism and Post-September 11 Movement Strategies (2002)
Legacy and Influence
Eric-Mann's work has had a lasting impact on labor movements, civil rights, and environmental justice in the United States. His strategies in community organizing and his focus on the intersectionality of issues like race, class, and the environment have influenced numerous activists and organizations.
Sources
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