Tribute to Julius Margolin

8/16/1916 – 8/24/2009

A former merchant seaman, World War II veteran and film electrician, Julius was labor editor for his union newsletter (IATSE Local 52) and was his union’s delegate to the New York City Labor Council since 1973. Born and raised in New York City, he was a member of the Congress of Industrial Organizations and organized for the CIO during the 1930s and 1940s. A member of the New York City Labor Chorus, Margolin retired in 1982, but that didn’t keep him from staying active in social movements for peace and justice. He was a regular fixture on picket lines and at demonstrations whenever unions and organizations called…

From 1998 until his death in August 2009, Julius partnered with folksinger George Mann and sang throughout the nation for peace and justice. Together they produced seven albums, three CDs of their music and the four “Hail to the Thief!” anti-Bush CD compilations.

Below are some four video clips: Julius’s last interview and concert footage, two scenes from the documentary film “A Union Man: The Life and Work of Julius Margolin,” and a video of Julius’s poem “The Bush Legacy” set to artwork by our friend Peter. Click on the links to view the videos.

George produced and directed this one-hour film that shows you a glimpse of Julius’s life during 2005-2007 when he was still touring with George. He will be missed by many.

Julius Margolin’s last interview and concert footage

Julius on the importance of unions

A visit to Julius’s pad