An American communist and trade union activist who fought alongside the Kurdish People's Protection Units in Syria, known for his radical left-wing politics and international solidarity efforts.
Meet Brace Belden, the American podcaster and union activist who traded in his mic for a rifle, volunteering to fight alongside the Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG), in the Syrian Civil War. Better known by his former Twitter handle, PissPigGranddad, Belden's unconventional journey has made him a fascinating figure in modern politics.
Belden's early life was marked by turmoil. Born to Jewish parents in San Francisco, he grew up in Corte Madera, California. His father, a journalist, and his brother, a tech worker, raised him after his mother's suicide when he was just six years old. This difficult start in life led to Belden becoming a self-described "troubled teen," attending five different high schools, including a boot camp, and getting arrested for public intoxication.
Despite these challenges, Belden discovered his political voice at a young age. As a 13-year-old, he protested the Iraq War, and by his teenage years, he had identified as a Marxist. This early activism laid the groundwork for his future endeavors.
In 2005, Belden co-founded Warkrime, a satirical right-wing, pro-war punk band. As "President Chaos," he released the band's debut album, Give War A Chance, in 2006. Although the band broke up in 2008, Belden's punk rock roots would later influence his approach to activism. He went on to play bass in another punk band, Wild Thing, earning the nickname "Bad Boy Brace Belden."
In 2015, Belden launched a petition to cancel A Prairie Home Companion, a radio show by American Public Media. Although the petition may have been tongue-in-cheek, it showcased Belden's willingness to challenge the status quo. This spirit of defiance would eventually lead him to join the YPG in Syria, where he saw firsthand the brutality of war and the importance of fighting for a cause.
Today, Belden co-hosts the popular podcast TrueAnon alongside Liz Franczak, discussing politics, history, and culture. His experiences in Syria have given him a unique perspective on international relations and the role of activism in modern society.
Belden's life is a testament to the power of taking a stand, even when it means going against the grain. Love him or hate him, PissPigGranddad has become synonymous with unapologetic activism and a willingness to challenge authority. As his story continues to unfold, one thing is certain – Brace Belden will remain a figure of intrigue and inspiration for years to come.
As Belden continues to push boundaries and challenge norms, his legacy will undoubtedly be one of controversy and activism, inspiring future generations to take a stand and fight for what they believe in.
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