The Dangers of Silica ft. Kim Kelly
Summary
Host Kim Kelly discusses the resurgence of black lung disease in Appalachia due to silica exposure and a silicosis epidemic among immigrant stone workers. She highlights Starbucks workers’ health concerns over silica-based blending powders and celebrates nurses union efforts to free detained member Deborah Kapisha. Finally, Kelly announces a planned 2027 nationwide prison strike demanding an end to legalized slavery and the restoration of voting rights.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Times Square, TNA Wrestling, Cotton, and Aleve
Host Kim Kelly introduces the podcast and labor history focus
What is silica? Health risks of respirable crystalline silica
Black lung epidemic in Appalachian coal mines and political inaction
Silicosis crisis among construction workers and countertop fabricators
Starbucks workers exposed to silica in new blending powder
Sponsors: Times Square, TNA, Addyi, and Vital Proteins
Nurse Deborah Kapisha detained by ICE and union response
Black August and announcement of 2027 national prison strike
History of prison strikes and demands to end legalized slavery
Outro and final sponsor messages
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