Working conditions throughout the Middle East and South Asia can be quite harsh and unequal. For many, it's the main motivation for emigration. They arrive in the States hoping for safer environment and more just opportunities for themselves and their children. But, for some, not much has changed.

This week, Radio Intifada will explore the Labor Movement here in the US and internationally.

Joining us for the first half hour are, Sentayehu Silassie, president of the board of the LATWA-Los Angeles Taxi Worker's Alliance and Gray Palmer, a member of the board. They will discuss the current hardships facing LA taxi drivers, and the conditions that they say have turned the industry into "Sweatshops on Wheels." These are the conditions that prompted the August 18th protest in front of City Hall, where 100 taxi cabs circled the building, honking in defiance.

During the second half of the hour, Hamoud Salhi, will examine the labor movement in the Middle East, particularly the human rights issues, the socio-economic conditions under which they work and their role in political change within the region.

This show is produced by Sejal Petal, Lucy DerTavitian and Hamoud Salhi.
Hosted by Lucy DerTavitian and Hamoud Salhi.