546 - The Dunnes Store Strike, "The Most Dangerous Supermarket Workers In The World"

This episode of Do Go On recounts the powerful and inspiring story of the 1984 Dunnes Stores strike in Dublin, where a group of young supermarket workers—later dubbed the 'grapefruit ladies' or 'the most dangerous supermarket workers in the world'—launched a two-and-a-half-year labor protest that became a pivotal moment in the global anti-apartheid movement. The strike began when 21-year-old Mary Manning refused to ring up grapefruits from apartheid-era South Africa, sparking a chain reaction that transformed a local grievance into an international campaign. With the crucial support of Nimrod Sejaka, a former political prisoner who had shared a cell with Nelson Mandela, the strikers expanded their mission to include racial justice, drawing global attention, securing a visit with Desmond Tutu, and enduring detention at Johannesburg Airport. Their unwavering courage led to Ireland becoming the first Western nation to ban imports from apartheid South Africa, marking a historic victory for both labor rights and anti-racist activism. The episode celebrates how ordinary workers, particularly young women, can become global icons through principled action and solidarity. The podcast maintains its signature blend of reverence and humor throughout, using the historical narrative as a springboard to reflect on the power of grassroots movements and community. The hosts, Dave Warnicke and Jess Perkins, draw parallels between the Dunnes strikers and modern activists like Greta Thunberg, emphasizing how passion and persistence can shift history. They honor Patreon supporters with playful, fictional rituals like the 'Trip Ditch Club,' culminating in a ceremonial induction of Matt Lass, the 17th member, who is given custodianship of Episode 17—a 2016 episode about left-handedness. These absurd yet heartfelt traditions underscore the show’s deep commitment to fostering connection, loyalty, and joy among its audience, blending historical significance with lighthearted celebration and a strong call to community engagement.