Larry Long’s Boycott Hormel: Live From Austin is a stirring live album that captures the spirit of solidarity and resistance during the 1985–1986 Hormel strike in Austin, Minnesota. Produced in 1986, the album served as both a fundraiser and a rallying cry, raising over $10,000 for the Adopt a P-9 Family Fund to support striking workers.
The Hormel strike was a significant labor dispute involving approximately 1,500 workers protesting wage cuts and unsafe working conditions. The strike, which lasted from August 17, 1985, to September 13, 1986, drew national attention and highlighted the struggles of organized labor during a period of decline in union power.
The album features a collection of songs and spoken-word pieces that reflect the emotions and experiences of the striking workers and their supporters. Tracks like “Proud To March With P-9” featuring Dennis Jones and “Solidarity Forever” with Carrie Gerendasy, Larry Long, Mim Olsen, and striking workers of P-9, encapsulate the unity and determination of the labor movement. The inclusion of “Which Side Are You On” with new words and vocals by Larry Long and Carrie Gerendasy connects the Hormel strike to a broader history of labor struggles.
Larry Long, a Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter known for his work in social justice and community storytelling, brings authenticity and passion to the album. His commitment to highlighting the voices of marginalized communities is evident throughout the recording.
The live recordings capture the raw energy of the time, with audience reactions and ambient sounds adding to the immersive experience. The album not only serves as a historical document but also as an inspiration for ongoing labor activism.
Boycott Hormel: Live From Austin stands as a testament to the power of music in social movements, preserving the legacy of the Hormel strike and honoring the resilience of the workers involved.
