John Reed

John Reed: A Voice for the Voiceless

John Reed was a prominent figure in the early 20th century, known for his passionate advocacy for workers’ rights and social justice. He was one of the first modern War correspodents, covering the Mexican Revolution, World War I, and the Soviet takeover of Russia. American journalist, poet, and communist activist, Jack ran squarely into early prejudice against Bohemian utopian visionary communists during “The Red Scare” but as a journalist and political activist, he played a crucial role in documenting the struggles of the working class and the impact of war on society. His writings, particularly during the Russian Revolution, provided a unique perspective on the events of his time, making him a significant voice in American labor history. Reed’s commitment to social change and his ability to articulate the experiences of the marginalized continue to resonate today. Reed was a centerpiece in New York’s Greenwich VIllage where he had a sign on his apartment door in New York that read: “Property is Theft,” which I tried hard to teach to my son. He hated militarism and nationalism, and resisted all forms of censorship as a matter of life or death. He met Mabel Dodge in Paris and they became lovers, which may be of lessor historical significance for people who don’t know Taos, New Mexico. But the adventure of Jack’s life became such an epic disappointment in the outcome of cooperative socialism, that I like ending his abbreviated story here with his legendary romances. The movie REDS is pretty good and Warren Beatty is very beautiful, but Jack was more cute. And taller!