Q: How did you get involved in progressive causes?

Asner: I’m intelligent! I began to become active with the ACLU, SANE, People for the American Way, the ADA, and certain wildlife organizations I’ve always been supportive of. I didn’t become actively involved making speeches or anything like that until the ’70s and ’80s.

Q: How has somebody as outspoken and progressive as you been able to survive in Hollywood?

Asner: There are lots of people in Hollywood who give lip service to progressive causes. It is not a reactionary city or industry. When it comes to extending the lines and practicing freedom of speech, then it becomes difficult, as it did for me in terms of El Salvador.

Q: Has it become easier for progressives in Hollywood now?

Asner: [Sighs.] I don’t think anything ever becomes easier for progressives. Far too much of our country is being misguided by rightwing radio, which dominates the airwaves. Far too many people are intrigued by the news space the tea baggers occupy. They talk about “socialism” while they’re busy collecting their Social Security, unemployment, and Medicare checks, and busily decrying any other new innovation as being “socialistic.”

Q: What do you think of socialism?

Asner: I think we need more of it.

This is a short excerpt of the interview with Ed Asner that is in the May issue of The Progressive. To read the entire interview, subscribe now for $14.97.