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Are public defense unions the solution to reform?

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In this episode, Hunter speaks with Sam Allison-Natale, Executive Director of the Kansas Holistic Defenders, and Bob Kolstad, a public defender in Hennepin County, Minnesota.

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They\u2019ll walk you through everything you need to know about public defense unions and the philosophy behind them. Giving you a behind-the-scenes view, you\u2019ll learn the realities behind unions, the goals, and why they are necessary.

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Then, Bob and Sam will discuss collective organizing and the ethics around it. They\u2019ll share how they mobilize public defenders and how they get past the individualistic society of today.

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With their endless enthusiasm, Bob and Sam share a refreshing vision of unity and hope.\xa0

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Key Topics and Takeaways:

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• Bob and Sam talk about how they got into public defense. [7:02]
• Why the Minnesota union is so successful. [16:45]
• The ethics of unionization. [24:00]
• Why people should take the burden of collective action. [37:10]
• The racial lens of collective action. [48:07]
• What led to the Minnesota strike. [57:12]
• Organizing collective action. [1:02:34]
• How to get from a place of individuality to unity. [1:07:50]

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Guests:

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Sam Allison-Natale, Executive Director, Kansas Holistic Defenders

Bob Kolstad, Public Defender, Hennepin County, Minnesota

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Resources:

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Public defenders vote to strike; justice system could come to a halt\xa0

Minnesota\u2019s top public defender reappointed over objections from rank-and-file\xa0

Minnesota\u2019s public defenders vote no confidence in agency head\xa0

The Secrets of a Successful Organizer\xa0

Michelle Alexander Plea Deal Strike\xa0

Email Bob\xa0

Email Sam\xa0

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Memorable Quotes:

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\u201cThe weakness of unions generally in Kansas is something that affects the shape of Kansas politics across the board.\u201d (23:36, Sam)

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\u201cThe public defense system is under duress. I mean, severe duress.\u201d (24:50, Bob)

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\u201cThis discussion about collective action versus individual action, and the fact that everybody is stuck in an individual mindset is what allows the system to function.\u201d (33:00, Sam)

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\u201cThe fact is that organizing for a strike, building a credible strike threat can get people really, really far in fighting for the kinds of things that they need to have.\u201d (40:39, Bob)

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\u201cI think that we are in a situation of such dire need that people want to be invited into a struggle for something greater.\u201d (43:13, Hunter)

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Contact Hunter Parnell:

hwparnell@publicdefenseless.com

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www.publicdefenseless.com