Inside Europe Inside Europe 17 April 2025
Apr 17, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Sarah Jaffe, a journalist and author known for her focus on street and workplace politics, delves into the profound impact of grief on society. She reflects on how personal losses from COVID and historical events shape collective memory and activism. Jaffe emphasizes the political shifts spurred by grief, the emotional landscape of deindustrialization, and the evolving definitions of masculinity amidst change. Through personal stories, she illustrates the resilience and hope emerging from tragedy, prompting a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.
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Bergamo's COVID Tragedy
- Bergamo experienced a devastating COVID-19 outbreak due to delayed lockdown to protect industry.
- Military trucks removing bodies became a stark symbol of the tragedy and government failure.
Grief Shapes Political Shifts
- Political backlash after the pandemic favored leaders opposing lockdowns, reflecting unresolved collective trauma.
- This shift links to the rise of far-right politics fueled by unaddressed grief and fear.
Right to Grieve Denied at Work
- Workers during COVID-19 often had to keep working without time to grieve due to restrictions on funerals.
- This caused an unnatural suppression of grief and trauma among essential workers.
