Portside

Statement by COSATU - The Congress of South African Trade Unions on the death today of Nelson Mandela - "the greatest ever South African and most inspirational leader in our struggle for liberty and democracy, our beloved Comrade, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela."

Many college adjuncts are going to the Service Employees International Union for help in organizing a union. Because of low wages and abysmal working conditions adjuncts feel they have on other choice.

Harold Schaitberger, general president of the International Association of Fire Fighters based in Washington, said, "Going forward, this is as much about politics and the priorities of public officials as it is about bankruptcy and the court." Schaitberger said that elected officials in the United States are expected to continue to "push for austerity no matter the cost to the lives of workers and public safety."

Wal-Mart arrests could fuel "A New Political Movement of the Disenfranchised," Florida Congressman Alan Grayson tells Salon. The Congressman questions Obama's praise for Wal-Mart: "What has Wal-Mart given the president in return?"