I have been thinking about Direct Production Workers. This term confused people when I first proposed it. People could not quite understand what it was and its significance. Now as the economy shuts down, it is clearer what this role is and how essential it is. Outside of RC, the word “frontline worker” is being used. It is similar in meaning.


I would ask frontline workers, “Is it safe to go to work, and what are the conditions under which we can work safely?”


Power has shifted. We Direct Production Workers are in a position to demand the protection that we need.


My opinion is that no one should be allowed in supermarkets except for the employees. They should all be tested. If positive, they should automatically be paid wages to stay out of the workplace for as long as they need it. Customers should bring their orders or make them online, and the orders should be brought to them outdoors. There should be required space between workers and between customers.


For people working at home: Beware of “I have to do a good job” patterns. Our goal is not to “do a good job.” It is to survive in a way that will do the least damage to ourselves and the society. You now have the opportunity to make your job what it should be. Take breaks, go outside, stretch. If you don’t need eight hours to do your job, don’t feel like you have to work that long. Who is going to know?


To parents of children who are now schooling at home: I taught for four years in a boarding school where students could choose whether or not to attend class. Some did not attend classes. They are fine now. Do what is best for the young people and the family. Do what make sense. For teachers: Resist the pull to meet the demands put on you. Do what is best for you and others.


At the time of this writing, parents in the United States are being told that schooling from home is just for a few weeks. I doubt that very much. I think going to school is finished for the year.


Things are changing. We do not have to conform. Do what is best for you and everyone else. Start living the future rational society.


For those who are facing job and income loss: You do not have to pay your bills. Poor folks have skills. You know you can hold the institutions off [keep them away] for months if not years. Call them up, reschedule payments. Pay a little. Do not spend your last dollar paying bills. Spend it on something that will enhance your survival. Like an RC class, for instance.


The system will be overwhelmed with unpaid bills. It will not want to lose your business. It is not going to send someone to your house during quarantine. There will be fewer workers to keep up with the enforcement anyway. The customer service people are your friends. Treat them well—they may do a little “extra” for you.


It is possible to figure out how to survive the collapse. We will also be grieving some losses.


Don’t let the internalized patterns of capitalism put you at risk if you can help it at all.


My sister is a nurse working with homeless people. She does not have the proper equipment to keep herself safe. This week the testing training was stopped due to supply issues and dysfunctional test equipment. She and I have had frequent “sessions” by text. Her daughter just made it through a lot of border closings and flight cancellations to get home to take care of her mom and grandmother. She had been working against the Ebola virus in the Congo. She will be in quarantine for fourteen days as long as she does not test positive.


The frontline health workers are organizing in RC. Please connect to them. There may also be a group for those living with or who are allies to frontline workers.


I will be starting a group for Direct Production Workers and others who cannot “work at home” or get out of the way of COVID-19.


Keep discharging and thinking.