Dive into compelling stories of triumph, art, and activism as key voices reflect on changing Mississippi's state flag history. (episode originally aired June 5, 2024)

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Description: In a time of division, how do we create a sense of collective freedom? It’s a question that peace activist, artist and poet Genesis Be grapples with in all her work. Genesis Be has a new book out, People Not Things: Love Poems & Paintings for Humanity, and recently curated the Freedom Rising art show in Brooklyn, New York featuring work by incarcerated artists currently held by the Georgia Department of Corrections. She is the subject of the upcoming film “Mississippi Turning” about the successful years-long effort to remove the Confederate symbol from the state’s flag. In this episode taped at the CUNY studios in NYC, we turn to a poet and a preacher. Genesis Be joins Laura Flanders and co-host Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis, the Senior Minister for Public Theology and Transformation at Middle Church, to discuss how to reject stigmas and advance liberation. Genesis Be painted in the studio — for her and us it was a first.

“I did my protest about the confederate flag that went viral, I hung a noose around my neck and draped myself in a confederate flag . . . It was a very scary time for me because I got thrown into the fight to change the Mississippi State flag. There were a lot of death threats, but a lot of support during that time.” - Genesis Be

“The word freedom is hijacked often by folks: freedom from having to change, freedom from having to admit the humanity of others, freedom from having to widen the tent, freedom from having to let go of their sense of exceptionalism . . . This [conference] was a gathering of like-minded folks sharing a dream of all of us belonging and all of us saving this democracy, interfaith, intergenerational.” - Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis

Guests:

• Genesis Be: Poet, Peace Activist, Artist; Author, People Not Things: Love Poems & Paintings for Humanity

• Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis (Co-host): Senior Minister of Public Theology & Transformation, Middle Church, NYC.  Author of several books including her latest Fierce Love: A Bold Path to Ferocious Courage and Rule-Breaking Kindness That Can Heal the World

Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country 

Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon

Music In the Middle:  “Blind Lady Say (Be Love)” by Genesis Be, courtesy of the artist.    And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear.

Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:

•. Prison Creative Arts Project: Imagination in the Face of Incarceration. Watch / Listen-Download Podcast and Full Conversation

• How Radical Self-Love Can Heal the World. Watch / Listen-Download Podcast

• Ask Angola Prison: What Difference Can a Play Make?  Watch / Listen-Download Podcast and Full Conversation

Related Articles and Resources:

•. Documentary (released Fall 2024) “Mississippi Turning” Artist & activist Genesis Be, after her controversial protest against Mississippi's Confederate Heritage Month, heads down to her home state of Mississippi to have an honest discussion with people on both sides of the debate, including her childhood friend, a proud descendant of Confederate soldiers. Watch the Trailer

•. “People Not Things” by Genesis Be, recordings of her poetry via Bandcamp

•. Middle Church Freedom Rising Conference Learn More Here

•. People Not Things Exhibit. Learn More Here

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Meet the New Leaders of California's 12th District:** Newly elected Democrat Lateefah Simon joins veteran Congresswoman Barbara Lee in a powerful conversation about minority representation and the fight for reproductive rights, housing, and immigration reform—how will they inspire change in a Republican-controlled Congress?

This show is made possible by you!  Our year end goal is to raise $50,000, and we are half way there. To become a member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!

Description: If anyone can inspire the public about the role of the minority in Congress, the women of California’s 12th district can. In this charming conversation, newly-elected Democrat, Lateefah Simon, joins the indomitable veteran Barbara Lee, whose congressional seat Simon will be taking when the new Congress convenes. Republicans will control the House and Senate, the White House, and dominate the Supreme Court, but Simon says she’s fired up to “fight for what we’ve fought for” in the areas of reproductive rights, low and middle-income housing, public safety, immigration and more. And that’s no wonder. Simon’s following Lee — whose historic 26-year career in the legislature included often being in the minority, and once standing alone against granting the president unlimited war powers after 9/11. Like Lee, Simon began her activism as a single mother at Mills College, and that’s not all they have in common. Lee says Simon’s already made her proud. This episode will delight everyone interested in the role of African American women in politics, or how legacies are built and power is passed on. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on how not to stay tired.

“Being a Black woman in America really gives us the experience and the lens to not be daunted with being a minority. We've been a minority in this country forever . . . I don't buy this fear. I don't buy into the fact that a lot of people talk about they're exhausted Black women. We always keep going and Lateefah keeps going. “ - Barbara Lee

“We know what racism looks like. We know what the threats of deportation looks like. We have been here before, but I am so honored to be able to take on again, the ongoing journey that was led by Shirley Chisholm, Kamala D. Harris, and my mentor, professor and friend Barbara Lee. We are weary, clearly, but we're not weak.” - Lateefah Simon

Guests:

• Barbara Lee, Congresswoman, California 12th District

• Lateefah Simon, Congresswoman-Elect, California 12th District

Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country 

Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon

Music In the Middle:  "Be Love" by Alexis P. Suter Band, the title track from their album released on HipBone Records..  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear.

Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:

• Transportation is a Human Right. Watch /  Download Podcast

• To Save The Progressives: U.S. Reps Pramila Jayapal, Mark Pocan, Barbara Lee, Yvette Clark. Watch

Related Articles and Resources:

• Lateefah Simon, on Track to Be a New house Dem: “I’ve Never Shied Away From Any Fight”, by Samantha Michaels, November 6, 2024, Mother Jones

•  Shirley Chisolm’s Legacy Still Looms Large, Time Magazine

•  ‘The point is to be there for the fight’:  incoming congresswoman arrives in D.C., Erika Ryan, Ari Shapiro, Patrick Jarenwattananon, November 25, 2024, NPR

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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Description: Mainstream media has a lot to account for in 2024, but go back 90 years, and prestigious publications have often failed to see when things were so clearly wrong. In 1930s Germany, many journalists downplayed Adolf Hitler’s ascension to power, with the New York Times writing “There is no warrant for immediate alarm…The more violent parts of his alleged program he has himself in recent months been softening down or abandoning.” But one young British journalist who, seeing what was happening, quit his job with The London Times and founded The Week, a newsletter that became famous for its opposition to fascism and the Western powers that were enabling it. His name was Claud Cockburn, and he’s the subject of a newly-released biography by his son, Patrick Cockburn, “Believe Nothing Until It Is Officially Denied: Claud Cockburn and the Invention of Guerrilla Journalism,” out now via Verso Books. Patrick is an award-winning journalist himself, with a long expertise in the Middle East. And Patrick is Laura Flanders’ uncle; Claud is her grandfather. How did mainstream media miss what Claud knew about the rise of Nazis, and how did his guerilla journalism make an impact? And why is Claud’s story so relevant now? All that, plus a commentary from Laura.

Guest: Patrick Cockburn, Journalist, and author including “Believe Nothing Until It Is Officially Denied:  Claud Cockburn and the Invention of Guerrilla Journalism”, Verso Books.

Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country 

Note- Full Conversation Release:  While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation.  The following is from our episode "Patrick & Claud Cockburn: A Legacy of Guerilla Journalism Against Media Complacency."    These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Become a supporting member at https://LauraFlanders.org/Donate

•  Stephanie Flanders on A Trump Economy & What to Watch in The Ultimate Election Year, Watch / Podcast: Abridged, Uncut Conversation

•  Arundhati Roy: Freedom, Fascism, Fiction and the Pandemic Portal, Watch

/ Podcast:  Abridged, Uncut Conversation

• Laura’s Commentary, F-Word:  Bodies, Borders, Resistance, Rebirth:  Arundhati Roy, Podcast

•  Patrick Cockburn on Syria, Watch

• Opinion:  Is Trump a fascist?  Probably - but not like those of the 30s, by Patrick Cockburn, November 9 2024, iNews

• Opinion:  Netanyahu knows the US can’t restrain him now, by Patrick Cockburn, October 2, 2024, iNews

•  Most political disasters are overstated - not this one, by Patrick Cockburn, November 6, 2024, iNews

Full Episode Notes are located HERE. They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate

The first in depth interview with former State Department’s director, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Josh Paul .  COMING SOON - the 'Full Uncut Conversation' to be released  here as a podcast.

"We cannot be both against occupation, and for it. We cannot be both for freedom, and against it. And we cannot be for a better world, while contributing to one that is materially worse,” writes Josh Paul in his letter of resignation. After 11 years in the State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs — the entity most responsible for arms transfers to allies and partners — Paul quit October 18, over increased, “indeed expedited” arms sales to Israel. In this conversation, one of the first full-length interviews with Paul since his resignation, he sits down with Laura Flanders to discuss why he resigned, his concerns about how the weapons will be used, the unique way that Israel is treated when it comes to US arms sales and why the US approach to creating peace in the Middle East is clearly not working. US double standards and hypocrisy when it comes to human rights crimes, he says, are dangerous for all concerned. All that, plus a commentary for Laura on the war economy.

“The impact of the operation may be to kill terrorists, but it will also raise another generation who has no confidence in the peace process . . . This is not a recipe for lasting peace.” - Josh Paul

Guest:  Josh Paul: Former State Department Director, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:  “Fear of an Equal Planet” by Warriors of the Dystotheque courtesy of the artist.. And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS?  check our podcast feed the following week.  Thanks to our sustaining members and their monthly support.

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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ACCESSIBILITY - This episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate

As the Israel/Hamas conflict continues, what is media’s role? You may know Sonali Kolhatkar from her drive-time show ‘Uprising with Sonali” and then “Rising Up With Sonali” on KPFK/Pacifica Radio and Free Speech TV, but it was her narrative storytelling with the women of RAWA, the Revolutionary Association of the Women of Afghanistan, that Kolhatkar first made her national mark. Across the globe, reporting shapes political and cultural landscapes — and Kolhatkar believes that done right, storytelling can affect policy and advance social justice. She lays out examples in her new book from City Lights, “Rising Up: The Power of Narrative in Pursuing Racial Justice”. An award winning independent journalist, Kolhatkar has joined forces with YES! Magazine as Racial Justice Editor and host of a new weekly, “YES! Presents: Rising Up With Sonali” which she calls an “anecdote to the doom and gloom of mainstream news.” In this unique conversation Kolhatkar and Flanders exchange notes, and share experiences covering the stories that others don’t. What’s changed, what’s changing in the media coverage of Palestinians and Israelis? All that, plus a commentary from Laura on intimacy and reporting.

“. . . Solutions journalism can fuel a hope and a promise that if there are people here doing this about their problems, I can do the same.” - Sonali Kolhatkar

“. . . The world's attention is on the Palestinian people and Israelis . . . How do we center the complex humanity of people that we are told are totally different from one another?” - Sonali Kolhatkar

Guest:  Sonali Kolhatkar: Racial Justice Editor, YES! Magazine; Author, Rising Up: The Power of Narrative in Pursuing Racial Justice

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:  “The Shadow Thief” by Nickodemus featuring Alsarah from the album Soul and Science courtesy of Wonderwheel Recordings. And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS?  check our podcast feed the following week.  Thanks to our sustaining members and their monthly support.

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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ACCESSIBILITY - This episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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The following full uncut conversation is from our recent episode “Powerlands”: Indigenous Youth Fight Big Oil & Gas Worldwide.  It is made available here as a podcast thanks to the generous contributions from listeners like you.  Thank you.  Become a member support at LauraFlanders.org/donate 

Big Oil, Gas and mining companies are in the backyards of many Americans — but did you know that some of the same extractive corporations are also operating around the world? Colombia, the Philippines, Mexico, and the Standing Rock Reservation — ”resource colonization”, as today’s guest puts it, is a worldwide issue. But how often do we get the global picture? In the documentary "Powerlands", director Ivey-Camille Manybeads Tso meets Indigenous communities across three continents and speaking seven languages, to explore the global resistance against corporations such as Peabody Coal and BHP Petroleum. In the film, she discovers that their struggles are connected; is what she’s tracing a trans-local and trans-generational Indigenous movement that is building? Our guests say Indigenous resistance across national borders can beat back corporate assaults on nature, people and our climate. Joining Laura for this Indigenous Peoples’ Day special are Ivey-Camille Manybeads Tso and Kim Smith, both from the Diné (Navajo) Nation. Manybeads Tso is a self-described queer director and Smith is a community organizer who appears in the film. Plus a commentary from Laura on the Amazon monopoly — it takes one individual to hoard power, and many people to topple them down.

“We’re seeing this huge transcontinental movement that is forming in Oaxaca with wind power . . . The win that happened last October in Columbia, requiring mining corporations to clean up after themselves, that's huge for every place on the planet who is currently affected by mining . . .” Ivey-Camille Manybeads Tso

“Standing Rock showed us what is to come, especially when you look at the police state, the military force and imperialism in this country . . . You're seeing it all over the world, [police] have all of this heavy machinery to take and kill what they see is in their path.” - Kim Smith

Guests:

Kim Smith (Diné): Community Organizer, Nihi Ké Baa (For Our Relatives) Mutual Aid; Co-Founder, Indigenous Goddess Gang Publication

Ivey-Camille Manybeads Tso (Diné): Director, Powerlands; Award-Winning Filmmaker

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music Included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear.  

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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At The Laura Flanders Show, we're dedicated to providing a platform for diverse voices in the field of social justice. This report, produced through The Laura Flanders Show fellowship program, reflects our commitment. The opinions presented are solely those of the guest contributor and do not necessarily reflect or represent The Laura Flanders

• Antisemitism is the hostility to or prejudice against Jewish people, and it did not end with the Holocaust or other forms of institutionalized discrimination. Instead, antisemitic incidents in America have hit the highest level ever recorded by the Anti-Defamation League, and this age-old form of hatred is wreaking havoc on college campuses.
• The University of Wisconsin - Madison is usually a welcoming home to its 4,000 Jewish students. But on the first day of classes in September 2022, antisemitic chalkings marred the sidewalks of campus, targeting Jewish organizations and its members as “racist,” “genocidal,” and “having blood on their hands”. The university released an ineffective statement, sided with free speech, and left many Jewsh students feeling as though their own institution didn't support them.
• Abigail Handel, a student at the University of Wisconsin - Madison, was a first year student when this antisemitic event occurred. Now she has set out to answer the pressing question: Are American universities doing enough to combat antisemitism on campus? In this audio exclusive, Abigail takes us on a journey through understanding what antisemitism is, the damaging environment it has created for Jewish students, and what can be done to eradicate all forms of hate. Handel talks to Savannah Lipinksi, a rabbinite student at the The Jewish Theological Seminary, and Samuel Cross, the President of Rhodes College Hillel, to uncover the complex issue of modern antisemitism and the urgent need for proactive measures on campuses.

• “People are having a harder time recognizing antisemitism the further we get from the Holocaust and the more obvious manifestations of antisemitism that happened throughout the 19th and 20th centuries…This is why it is becoming increasingly important to call out the subtle attacks happening on university campuses.” - Abigail Handel
• Guests
• ● Savannah Lipinski, Former Student, UW Madison; Student, Jewish Theological Seminary
• ● Samuel Cross, Student, Rhodes College; President, Rhodes College Hillel

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate

Movement lawyer and organizer Andrea J. Ritchie’s forthcoming book is unlike anything she’s written before. In “Practicing New Worlds: Abolition and Emergent Strategies”, published by AK Press and out at the end of October 2023 as part of their Emergent Strategies Series, Ritchie has written a toolkit for organizers. Both visionary and practical, Ritchie believes we can live the “future” world we want, and offers actionable steps we can take to get there. A self-described “Black lesbian immigrant survivor,” Ritchie has been engaged since the 1980s in anti-violence, labor, and LGBTQ organizing, and in movements against state violence and for racial, reproductive, economic, environmental, and gender justice. In this wide-ranging conversation, Andrea J. Ritchie and Laura Flanders discuss what’s changed and what hasn’t after the police killing of George Floyd in 2020, and the emergent strategies for abolition that we should all pay attention to. The Right has strategies too — and so far, they’re working. How do we create the necessary conditions that foster collectivity and liberation leading to increased public safety and well-being? All that, plus a commentary from Laura on the power we recognize, and the other sort too.

“Change happens by acting as though the future that you are dreaming of is present now. And then practicing that with people who share your vision and values and then bringing more and more people into the conversation.” - Andrea J. Ritchie

“[Emergent strategies are] a way of approaching a world that interrupts violence in all its forms and creates new possibilities that we can't imagine yet.” - Andrea J. Ritchie

Guest:  Andrea J. Ritchie: Author, Practicing New Worlds: Abolition and Emergent Strategies; Co-Founder, Interrupting Criminalization

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “I Keeps It Moving” by David Anthony and Dani Vassar courtesy of Planet Hum Records and Pitch Control. And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS?  check our podcast feed the following week.  Thanks to our sustaining members and their monthly support.

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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The following full uncut conversation is from our recent episode featuring Rep. Ro Khanna & Lisa Graves calling out ALEC / The American Legislative Exchange Council .  It is made available here as a podcast thanks to the generous contributions from listeners like you.  Thank you.  Become a member support at LauraFlanders.org/donate 

Full Episode Description: Many people have never heard of the American Legislative Exchange Council, or ALEC – but for 50 years, the group has been the driving force behind some of the most extreme policies in this country. Behind closed doors, ALEC brings corporate lobbyists and state politicians together to draft and vote on model bills that aim to free corporations from regulations, regardless of the impacts on people and the planet. Labor law, environmental law, health and safety, voting — no cause is off-limits. Our guests say ALEC and its wealthy pool of funders are a real threat, but there are ways to take action and progress has already been made. In 2023, a diverse coalition of groups, including Greenpeace, Color of Change, the Center for Media and Democracy and more, is calling out the anti-democratic impact of ALEC by using the hashtag #50YearsOfHarm. Congressman Ro Khanna of California's 17th Congressional District, a leading progressive in the House, and Lisa Graves, Executive Director of True North Research and President of the Center for Media and Democracy, two of the preeminent national watchdog groups investigating dark money, join Laura Flanders to unpack it all. And in her closing commentary Laura fills us in on the other side of the story in state houses: the Democrats' have their own project in place these days. But is it any match for ALEC?

“ALEC recognizes that on many of these issues, there's a 70, 80, 90% consensus against them and they're trying to distort the democratic process by the use of big money.” - Ro Khanna

“ I still believe that for many people, not all people, knowledge is power, facts matter, and knowing who the real special interests are behind this [legislation] can help expose and block them.” - Lisa Graves

Guests:

Lisa Graves: President of the Board, Center for Media & Democracy; Executive Director, True North Research

Ro Khanna: Congressman California's 17th District

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music Included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear.  

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate

Big Oil, Gas and mining companies are in the backyards of many Americans — but did you know that some of the same extractive corporations are also operating around the world? Colombia, the Philippines, Mexico, and the Standing Rock Reservation — ”resource colonization”, as today’s guest puts it, is a worldwide issue. But how often do we get the global picture? In the documentary "Powerlands", director Ivey-Camille Manybeads Tso meets Indigenous communities across three continents and speaking seven languages, to explore the global resistance against corporations such as Peabody Coal and BHP Petroleum. In the film, she discovers that their struggles are connected; is what she’s tracing a trans-local and trans-generational Indigenous movement that is building? Our guests say Indigenous resistance across national borders can beat back corporate assaults on nature, people and our climate. Joining Laura for this Indigenous Peoples’ Day special are Ivey-Camille Manybeads Tso and Kim Smith, both from the Diné (Navajo) Nation. Manybeads Tso is a self-described queer director and Smith is a community organizer who appears in the film. Plus a commentary from Laura on the Amazon monopoly — it takes one individual to hoard power, and many people to topple them down.

“We’re seeing this huge transcontinental movement that is forming in Oaxaca with wind power . . . The win that happened last October in Columbia, requiring mining corporations to clean up after themselves, that's huge for every place on the planet who is currently affected by mining . . .” Ivey-Camille Manybeads Tso

“Standing Rock showed us what is to come, especially when you look at the police state, the military force and imperialism in this country . . . You're seeing it all over the world, [police] have all of this heavy machinery to take and kill what they see is in their path.” - Kim Smith

Guests:

• Kim Smith (Diné): Community Organizer, Nihi Ké Baa (For Our Relatives) Mutual Aid; Co-Founder, Indigenous Goddess Gang Publication

• Ivey-Camille Manybeads Tso (Diné): Director, Powerlands; Award-Winning Filmmaker

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “La Sarina” by Daniel French’s band Las Cafeteras. And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS?  check our podcast feed the following week.  Thanks to our sustaining members and their monthly support.

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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Thanks to our member supporters, this show remains free to millions on Public TV, community radio and as a podcast. If you’re already a member, please check your inbox for a special invite to register for a ‘members only’ ‘ask me anything virtual event’ taking place on October 4th at 8pm Eastern Time.  It’s an opportunity for you to ask Laura anything about the show or her lifelong career as an independent journalist. Not a member yet?  There’s still time to join us on October 4th.  Go to LauraFlanders.org/donate, make a donation and we’ll send you an invite with all the details.

Description: Many people have never heard of the American Legislative Exchange Council, or ALEC – but for 50 years, the group has been the driving force behind some of the most extreme policies in this country. Behind closed doors, ALEC brings corporate lobbyists and state politicians together to draft and vote on model bills that aim to free corporations from regulations, regardless of the impacts on people and the planet. Labor law, environmental law, health and safety, voting — no cause is off-limits. Our guests say ALEC and its wealthy pool of funders are a real threat, but there are ways to take action and progress has already been made. In 2023, a diverse coalition of groups, including Greenpeace, Color of Change, the Center for Media and Democracy and more, is calling out the anti-democratic impact of ALEC by using the hashtag #50YearsOfHarm. Congressman Ro Khanna of California's 17th Congressional District, a leading progressive in the House, and Lisa Graves, Executive Director of True North Research and President of the Center for Media and Democracy, two of the preeminent national watchdog groups investigating dark money, join Laura Flanders to unpack it all. And in her closing commentary Laura fills us in on the other side of the story in state houses: the Democrats' have their own project in place these days. But is it any match for ALEC?

“ALEC recognizes that on many of these issues, there's a 70, 80, 90% consensus against them and they're trying to distort the democratic process by the use of big money.” - Ro Khanna

“ I still believe that for many people, not all people, knowledge is power, facts matter, and knowing who the real special interests are behind this [legislation] can help expose and block them.” - Lisa Graves

Guests:

Lisa Graves: President of the Board, Center for Media & Democracy; Executive Director, True North Research

Ro Khanna: Congressman California's 17th District

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “Peel Back” by F-S-Q featuring Nona Hendryx, G Koop and O-Man from their Reprise Tonight L-P courtesy of Soul Clap Records. And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

Additional Audio Clip Included:  "United States of ALEC" documentary by the Bill Moyers Company

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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ACCESSIBILITY - This episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

The following full uncut conversation is from our recent episode featuring Naomi Klein.  It is made available here as a podcast thanks to the generous contributions from listeners like you.  Thank you.  Become a member today and you'll receive an invite to a 'Ask Laura Anything" event, October 4th 8pm Eastern Time, goto https://LauraFlanders.org/donate

Full Episode Description:  Politics abhors a vacuum. Without credible explanations for the things that bewilder and exasperate us, people become susceptible to extremist conspiracy theories, hate and lies. So how does truth survive? In her brand new book, "Doppelgänger: A Trip into the Mirror World”, award-winning journalist Naomi Klein, (author of No Logo, The Shock Doctrine, et al), describes being confused with Naomi Wolf, author of The Beauty Myth, as Wolf morphed into a conspiracy-minded anti-vaxxer during the Covid pandemic. In an era of all important "personal brands", Klein became absorbed in the deep fake, double worlds surrounding and sometimes coming to represent her online. Right-wing conspiracies feed off Left-wing silences, she concludes. In this far-ranging interview from her home in British Columbia, Canada, Klein describes listening to hours and hours of conspiracist Steve Bannon's podcasts, and researching doppelgängers in history and literature, in order to uncover why we have shadow selves, and how disinformation and conspiracy theories gain power. Join Laura Flanders for this charming conversation as Naomi Klein challenges us to overcome divide-and-conquer individualism if we are ever to tackle our real-life, systemic crises. And Laura shares a few thoughts on learning from our elders about the pre-digital age.

“[I think that] the pressure we're putting on the self . . . is part of why we're seeing so many people crack. I don't think the self can support the amount that we are putting on it: It's our income. It's our retirement. It's our safety. It's our lifeboat . . . And it's an illusion because we cannot protect ourselves from the forces that we're up against . . . Our only hope of protection is through collective work and collective movement building.” - Naomi Klein

“Very often we think that the solution is deplatforming . . . What I've seen is that it's actually kind of supercharged the movement. People wear it as a badge of honor . . . I am less interested in how we control speech and much more interested in how we drain conspiracy culture of its energy, of its power.” - Naomi Klein

Guest:  Naomi Klein Naomi Klein is the award-winning author of international bestsellers including This Changes Everything, The Shock Doctrine, No Logo, No Is Not Enough, and On Fire, which have been published in more than thirty-five languages. She is an associate professor in the department of geography at the University of British Columbia, the founding co-director of UBC’s Centre for Climate Justice, and an honorary professor of Media and Climate at Rutgers University. Her writing has appeared in leading publications around the world, and she is a columnist for The Guardian.

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music Included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear.  Also included are excerpts taken from the 'Book Trailer' for Naomi Klein's "Doppelgänger: A Trip into the Mirror World”

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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ACCESSIBILITY - This episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate

From the sinking lands of California's Central Valley to the depleting aquifers nationwide, we're at a critical point: Americans are running out of water. In this episode of Meet the BIPOC Press, a monthly collaboration between The Laura Flanders Show and URL Media, we take a closer look at the US water crisis that is affecting many Americans, and putting communities of color especially at risk. How are over-extraction and climate change impacting our water supply? BIPOC media outlets are bringing these stories to the forefront, debunking myths about climate change and uplifting solutions to this urgent issue. Joining us for this conversation are Warigia Bowman, Professor at the University of Tulsa College of Law, and Andrew Hazzard, Climate Reporter at Sahan Journal, which is dedicated to reporting on communities of color in Minnesota. Co-host S. Mitra Kalita is co-founder of URL Media, a national network of Black and Brown community news outlets. Kalita is also the publisher of Epicenter-NYC, a newsletter based in Queens, New York. How do we turn the tide on this crisis, before our water sources run dry?

“We should change the food and the crops we grow, we should change what we eat. We should change how we view the role of agriculture in our society . . . Indigenous people are not well represented in academia or in industry for that matter, and they have already worked through some of these solutions.” - Warigia Bowman

“As a climate reporter, I think it's my responsibility not only to raise the fact that there are major issues facing our society due to global warming caused by the burning of fossil fuels, but also to highlight that there are people that are working on solutions . . .” - Andrew Hazzard

“I think you cannot separate water from healthcare. You can't separate water from housing. You can't separate water from race and Indigenous communities . . . By centering people of color, instantly we're in solutions mode in terms of how we're presenting these issues.” - S. Mitra Kalita

Guests:

Warigia Bowman: Professor, College of Law, University of Tulsa

Andrew Hazzard:  Climate Reporter, Sahan Journal

S. Mitra Kalita: Co-Founder, URL Media; CEO & Publisher, Epicenter-NYC

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   ‘Yéla Mama’ by  Eat My Butterfly featuring Lass & Sibu Manaï,  from the Climate Soundtrack album, produced by DJ’s for Climate Action. And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS?  check our podcast feed the following week.  Thanks to our sustaining members and their monthly support.

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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ACCESSIBILITY - This episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Discover the perspectives of influential advocates on what lies ahead for voters, communities, and democratic engagement after a transformative election season.

This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!

Description:  Tens of millions of Americans cast their ballots in one of the most divisive elections in our lifetime, but what happens next? What are the teachings and takeaways from this historic presidential race, as well as critical local races and ballot initiatives? Laura Flanders & Friends presents an exclusive post-election roundtable discussion, featuring analysts and perspectives you won’t find in the money media. They include Guerline Jozef, a Haitian-American human rights advocate and Founder & Executive Director of The Haitian Bridge Alliance, called one of the “Most Influential People on Race, Politics, and Policy in the United States”; Judith LeBlanc, a citizen of the Caddo Nation and Executive Director of the Native Organizers Alliance; and Serena Sebring, Executive Director of Blueprint NC, a progressive ecosystem of nearly 60 groups working to build inclusive democracy in North Carolina. Join Laura and her guests as they examine what lies ahead for people, the planet and democracy. Where do we go from here? This conversation was recorded the morning of November 6, 2024.

• Guerline Jozef: Founder & Executive Director, The Haitian Bridge Alliance

• Judith LeBlanc (Caddo Nation): Executive Director, Native Organizers Alliance

• Serena Sebring: Executive Director, Blueprint NC

Music In the Middle:  “Faith and Equation” by Badawi featuring the voice of Sun Ra, from Badawi’s album Protection released by the Underground Producers Alliance or UPA based in Brooklyn New York.  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear.

Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel

Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon

•  What’s On The Ballot In North Carolina? Abortion, Trans Life, A Governorship, & Multiracial Democracy, Watch / Podcast  

• Reporting on Policing at the Polls & BIPOC Voter Suppression in 2024, Watch / Podcast / Full Conversation

•  Not Party to Party Politics: Movement Leaders Consider Election ‘24, Watch / Podcast / Full Conversation

•  Haitian group in Springfield, Ohio, files citizen criminal charges against Trump and Vance, by Julie Carr Smyth, September 25, 2024, Associate Press

•  Why more Native Americans are on U.S. ballots than ever before, by Ximena Bustillo for Morning Edition, November 3, 2024, NPR-WAMU

•  Bidenomics Is Starting to Transform America.  Why Has No One Noticed? By Nicholas Lemann, October 28, 2024, New Yorker Magazine

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate

Politics abhors a vacuum. Without credible explanations for the things that bewilder and exasperate us, people become susceptible to extremist conspiracy theories, hate and lies. So how does truth survive? In her brand new book, "Doppelgänger: A Trip into the Mirror World”, award-winning journalist Naomi Klein, (author of No Logo, The Shock Doctrine, et al), describes being confused with Naomi Wolf, author of The Beauty Myth, as Wolf morphed into a conspiracy-minded anti-vaxxer during the Covid pandemic. In an era of all important "personal brands", Klein became absorbed in the deep fake, double worlds surrounding and sometimes coming to represent her online. Right-wing conspiracies feed off Left-wing silences, she concludes. In this far-ranging interview from her home in British Columbia, Canada, Klein describes listening to hours and hours of conspiracist Steve Bannon's podcasts, and researching doppelgängers in history and literature, in order to uncover why we have shadow selves, and how disinformation and conspiracy theories gain power. Join Laura Flanders for this charming conversation as Naomi Klein challenges us to overcome divide-and-conquer individualism if we are ever to tackle our real-life, systemic crises. And Laura shares a few thoughts on learning from our elders about the pre-digital age.

“[I think that] the pressure we're putting on the self . . . is part of why we're seeing so many people crack. I don't think the self can support the amount that we are putting on it: It's our income. It's our retirement. It's our safety. It's our lifeboat . . . And it's an illusion because we cannot protect ourselves from the forces that we're up against . . . Our only hope of protection is through collective work and collective movement building.” - Naomi Klein

“Very often we think that the solution is deplatforming . . . What I've seen is that it's actually kind of supercharged the movement. People wear it as a badge of honor . . . I am less interested in how we control speech and much more interested in how we drain conspiracy culture of its energy, of its power.” - Naomi Klein

Guest:

Naomi Klein Naomi Klein is the award-winning author of international bestsellers including This Changes Everything, The Shock Doctrine, No Logo, No Is Not Enough, and On Fire, which have been published in more than thirty-five languages. She is an associate professor in the department of geography at the University of British Columbia, the founding co-director of UBC’s Centre for Climate Justice, and an honorary professor of Media and Climate at Rutgers University. Her writing has appeared in leading publications around the world, and she is a columnist for The Guardian.

🔹 Topics Covered:

 1️⃣ Disinformation & 'Mirror World Platforms': Why are alternative platforms becoming hotbeds for conspiracy theories? How can we address the spread of disinformation? What happens when conspiracy-minded figures are deplatformed from mainstream social media? 

2️⃣ Draining Conspiracy Culture: Why does conspiracy culture hold such allure, and how do we drain conspiracy culture of its power? 

3️⃣ The Pressure Cooker of Capitalism: Naomi Klein dives into capitalism and how it encourages us to "optimize" ourselves. 

4️⃣ Collective Movement Building: Why collective action, rather than individualistic solutions, is the way forward to solve systemic problems. 

5️⃣ Digital Identity Vs Real World: How is our perception of others distorted in the digital realm, and what can we do about it? 

6️⃣ The Power of Activism: Discussing real human experiences, activism and community building to transcend the digital divide. 7️⃣ Learning from Our Elders: The importance of engaging with older generations to understand that different lifestyles and systems are not just possible, but have existed. 

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “Connections” featuring lyrics  by Reg E. Gaines and music by Calvin Gaines, courtesy of the artists. And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS? Patreon subscribers get early access to our full, uncut conversations and audio extras! Join our growing family today! patreon.com/thelfshow

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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ACCESSIBILITY - This episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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As we commemorate the 15th anniversary of the 2008 financial crisis, we explore the urgent questions surrounding the extractive nature of capitalism and its impact on democracy and economic inequality. What are the consequences of “capital bias”, an economic and social system that prioritizes wealth and the wealthy at the expense of manufacturing, people and the planet? And in what ways is “wealth supremacy” as deadly as white male supremacy — and every other kind? In this episode, we sit down with Marjorie Kelly, author of the newly-released book “Wealth Supremacy: How the Extractive Economy and the Biased Rules of Capitalism Drive Today’s Crises”, and Edgar Villanueva, a member of the Lumbee people and Founder of the Decolonizing Wealth Project. We urgently need a spiritual revolution — could Indigenous perspectives offer alternative ways of thinking about wealth and community? All that, plus an update from Laura on a special collaboration between the Laura Flanders Show and the Bioneers: Revolution from the Heart of Nature podcast.

“. . . Big capital is out there right now buying water rights . . . Communities are saying no . . . Water needs to be declared a public trust. You have these two completely different worldviews, which show us we can have a financialized world or we can have a democratic world . . .” - Marjorie Kelly

 “. . . Capitalism was completely founded upon the enslavement of Black people in this country. That is the blueprint for our economy. I don't know how to take racism and harm out of that existing system without completely imagining a new system . . .” - Edgar Villanueva

Guests:

Marjorie Kelly: Distinguished Senior Fellow, The Democracy Collaborative; Author, Wealth Supremacy: How the Extractive Economy and the Biased Rules of Capitalism Drive Today’s Crises

Edgar Villanueva (Lumbee): Founder & Principal, Decolonizing Wealth Project

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “Turn Me Around” by STR4TA featuring Theo Croker, from the ST4TASFEAR Remix Collection released on Brownswood Records  Listen & Learn More.  And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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Stay informed and engaged! Don't miss out on our captivating weekly episodes that dive deep into the heart of our economy, culture, and politics. Please hit the podcast subscribe button if you've yet to subscribe.

 Join us for this discussion on multicultural education as a fundamental human right. As we kick off a new academic year, it's crucial to reflect on the state of education today. From right-wing pushback against critical thinking and comprehensive history to challenges in class size, teacher compensation, and the very foundation of quality public education — our conversation aims to shed light on the progress we've made toward multicultural education and the paths we've taken to get here. 

📚 The Birth of Puerto Rican and Black Studies Programs: In this episode, you’ll learn about the efforts to establish Africana Studies and Puerto Rican Studies Departments at The City University of New York, or CUNY's Brooklyn College. Black, Latino, and working-class white students united to reshape a campus, an educational system, and college curricula — setting the stage for today’s multicultural education and overall educational landscape.

 🎥 Featured Documentary: Making the Impossible Possible Directed by Tami Kashia Gold and Pam Sporn, and distributed by @ThirdWorldNewsreel, this documentary tells the story of this transformative movement for multicultural education. Streaming on TWN On Demand: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/mtipfilm  Educational Screenings: twn.org/film.aspx?rec=1531 

🌟 Meet the Guests:

- Askia Davis: A former Black Panther and one of the "BC 19," Askia was arrested in 1969 for demanding Open Admissions and the establishment of Africana and Puerto Rican Studies at Brooklyn College. He served as Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent of Schools in Harlem and the Bronx. 

- Antonio Nieves: Also a member of the "BC 19," Antonio was a founder of the Puerto Rican and Afro American Institutes at Brooklyn College and has been a pharmacist for 30 years. He currently serves as the Director of Pharmacy for Caribbean Health Outreach. 

- Sonia Nieto: A former Brooklyn College faculty and one of the "BC 44," Sonia was arrested in 1974 during a student takeover. She is the Professor Emerita of Language, Literacy & Culture at the College of Education at UMass, Amherst. Her 1992 book, "Affirming Diversity," is considered a defining work in 20th-century education.

“The desire was to transform education, not just to create departments, not just to open access, but to change the fundamental nature of the institutions. At Brooklyn College in 1968, I would say maybe every day [there] was a demonstration . . .” - Askia Davis 

“These are the same issues that we were fighting for so many years ago . . . Things have improved somewhat, but in other ways, they have gotten worse because of right-wing interests and fear of losing power . . .” - Sonia Nieto 

“You cannot be unwoke . . . If you are unwoke, that means that history will repeat itself and you will be victimized again. We want an education that tells us where we came from and what our contribution to America was.” - Antonio Nieves 

Guests: 

Askia Davis: Former Superintendent of Schools, Harlem, NYC; Former Deputy Regional Superintendent, Bronx, NYC 

Sonia Nieto: Professor Emerita, Language, Literacy & Culture, College of Education UMass, Amherst; Member, National Academy of Education 

Antonio Nieves: Director of Pharmacy, Caribbean Health Outreach; Founder, Puerto Rican Institute & the Afro American Institute, Brooklyn College

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “Rumba Tobacco y Ron” by Nickodemus featuring Haydee Soul & The Candela Allstars, from his album Soul and Science released on Wonderwheel Recordings..  And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

Clips featured in the podcast from the documentary "Making the Impossible Possible" include the trailer and an additional clip featuring former student activists Dr. Orlando Pile, Askia Davis, and Antonio Nieves recounting the reactions by the police

The Laura Flanders Show Crew:  Laura Flanders, Sabrina Artel, David Neuman, Nat Needham, Rory O'Conner, Janet Hernandez, Sarah Miller and Jeannie Hopper

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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This year, Mother’s Day, May 14th coincides with the formal end of the National Covid-19 Emergency. Since its enactment in March 2020, emergency spending expanded healthcare coverage to some 15 million people who will now be disenrolled, and increased food stamp benefits, and post-partum coverage in many states. Poor parents will be taking a hit — but Guaranteed Income could be the solution. The Magnolia Mothers Trust in Jackson, Mississippi is the first in the country to provide Guaranteed Income of $1000 monthly to low-income families headed by a Black woman living in affordable housing. Joining Laura for this Mother’s Day special are Aisha Nyandoro who leads this program as the CEO of Springboard Opportunities, a nonprofit organization working with residents in affordable housing to help them reach their goals; Anquoindria Moore, a mother of three was a recipient of this cash relief from Magnolia Mothers and Dorian Warren, the Co-President of Community Change, that  focuses on building the power of people most impacted by injustice. How does cash relief reduce poverty, and increase equity and security for families? All that, and a commentary from Laura on renewing, and renaming, the tax credit program.

“Clearly it is not only about the cash. I had the opportunity to meet some very wonderful people. I was also able to socialize with different women who were also in the same shoes as me or similar . . . The women there are not getting involved and then leaving you stranded.” - Anquoindria Moore

“When people have a little more breathing room, when they don't have to count every penny to pay bills . . . they actually have more time to get involved in our democracy and their communities and school board elections and town hall meetings . . . That is important for the promise of multiracial democracy in this country.” - Aisha Nyandoro

“We know that if we trust women in particular and give them agency, they will always do the right thing for their kids . . . What we're up against is basically ideologues and zombie ideas who are ignoring the evidence and the stories about the participants in these kinds of programs.” - Dorian Warren

Guests:

Anquoindria Moore: Recipient, Magnolia Mothers Trust

Dr. Aisha Nyandoro: CEO, Springboard To Opportunities

Dorian Warren: Co-President, Community Change

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “Don’t Know What Tomorrow Brings” by Secret Night Gang from their forth coming album “Belongs on a Place Called Earth” to be released on Brownswood Recordings.  And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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The notorious Rikers, a 10-jail complex situated on an island in the East River of New York City, has become a national symbol and a symptom of our current approach to crime. The jail has over 6,000 inmates — the majority of whom are awaiting trial because they can’t afford bail — living in unconstitutionally inhumane conditions, a federal court once ruled. In October 2019, the New York City Council passed, and then Mayor Bill de Blasio signed into law, a plan to permanently close Rikers and replace the jails with four borough facilities by August 2027. But the proposed closure has hit roadblocks — from the left, from the right, from the prison guards union and from concerned residents who live near where new jails would be built. Although many support the Rikers closure, there is little agreement as to how and when — or what should replace it. Why is it so difficult to make changes to our challenged carceral system? Joining Laura to discuss the local and national implications of this story are Journalist Nick Pinto, co-founder of Hell Gate, a worker-owned news outlet covering New York City, and New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, who helped pass the law to close the jail. Elected Public Advocate last fall, he is now the prime sponsor of legislation that would ban solitary confinement in city jails.

“. . . The education that's necessary to bring the voting public along with this sort of change is difficult. It's especially difficult in the face of a concerted fear mongering campaign.” - Nick Pinto

“This is the first time I've seen a population of folks in the city and the state who are ready to receive a conversation that's holistic around public safety. And we're squandering it.” - Public Advocate Jumaane Williams

Guests:

Nick Pinto: NYC Journalist & Co-Founder, Hell Gate

Jumaane D. Williams: New York City Public Advocate

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:  “Front Line” featuring Puma Ptah by Eric Hilton, from the Farewell to Midnight EP released on Eighteenth Street Lounge Records.  And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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The following is the entire conversation from our episode "Forging Alliances for Climate Action: A Conversation with Sierra Club's Ben Jealous."  Please show your appreciation for our dedication to bringing you coverage on movements by becoming a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate  Monthly supporters receive early releases of our full uncut conversations.  Thank you for your continued support!

In this enlightening conversation on climate change, Laura Flanders sits down with Ben Jealous, the dynamic leader of the Sierra Club, to discuss the pressing challenges and opportunities in the realm of climate change news. As we navigate the climate crisis in 2023, Jealous delves deep into the Sierra Club's transformative journey, shedding light on its historical figures and the organization's evolution towards inclusivity and environmental justice.

Drawing from personal narratives and the ongoing climate change debate, Jealous shares the inspiring story of his ancestor, Edward David Bland, emphasizing the power of collaboration across racial and political divides in the face of global warming. The conversation also touches upon recent environmental incidents like the chemical train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, underscoring the disparities in media attention and within our world news.

Jealous passionately speaks about the Sierra Club's innovative efforts, from wilderness outings to urban "Toxic Tours," highlighting the organization's commitment to connecting people with both nature and pressing urban environmental issues. This episode highlights the broader environmental movement's need to resonate with a diverse audience, offering solutions that not only address the climate crisis but also promise economic benefits and social change.

Laura concludes the conversation with insightful commentary on the environmental challenges that the Biden administration is facing, spotlighting the Southeast Alaska Sustainability Strategy (SASS) as a beacon of hope for sustainability.

Join us for a deep dive into the world of environmental activism, the challenges we face, and the collaborative solutions that promise a greener, more equitable future in the face of the climate crisis.

“. . . We've got to show up to the American people with a vision that says we can build a better economy that lifts all boats. We have the technology, we have the resources, we have the demand, we have the will.” - Ben Jealous

Guest:  Ben Jealous: Executive Director, Sierra Club

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music Included:    "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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The following is the entire conversation from our episode "The Inspiring Battle for Cooper Square: Community Land Trusts and the Future of Affordable Housing."  Please show your appreciation for our dedication to bringing you coverage on movements by becoming a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate  Monthly supporters receive early releases of our full uncut conversations.  Thank you for your continued support!

Low income Americans face an acute housing shortage. But our guests have a victory to share. “Rabble Rousers: Frances Goldin and the Fight for Cooper Square" is a newly-released documentary telling the story of how a diverse group of New Yorkers, led by housing organizer Frances Goldin, fought a 50-year struggle against abandonment, white flight, violence, drugs and "Power Broker" Robert Moses to save a 12-block section of lower Manhattan from being destroyed. They created the first urban Community Land Trust (CLT), and thousands of homes and businesses were saved from speculation. The CLT established permanent low-income housing for Cooper Square residents. The film, which is out now from New Day Films, was directed and produced by our guests Kelly Anderson and Ryan Joseph, with Kathryn Barnier. Anderson and Joseph, along with historian Johanna Fernández join Laura to discuss the significance of Goldin, rabble rousing and the Cooper Square story for today. Plus, a commentary from Laura on “lost causes” that aren’t. 

“The housing situation is only getting worse…We need policy solutions to address problems that were created through racist and classist policies to begin with.” - Kelly Anderson

“What [Frances Goldin] creates is a model for others to follow. And that is the notion that public lands should be connected to the idea of the public good, meaning that they can never be sold at a profit in the future by people who live there.” - Johanna Fernández

“[Frances Goldin] wanted to make sure that the movement was integrated from the start. And in doing so, she formed coalitions quickly between Blacks, Browns, Jews, Puerto Ricans . . . She was able to take the movement to City Hall because she had people in numbers.” - Ryan Joseph

Guests:

•  Kelly Anderson: Producer/Director, “Rabble Rousers: Frances Goldin and the Fight for Cooper Square”

•  Johanna Fernández: Professor, 20th Century US History & the History of Social Movements at Baruch College & the Graduate Center CUNY

•  Ryan Joseph: Producer/Director, “Rabble Rousers: Frances Goldin and the Fight for Cooper Square”

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music Included:    "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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Affirmative action's foes worked with conservative Chinese American organizations to sue two colleges over their admissions processes. The result was a victory for activists who have been trying to do away with affirmative action for years. What led to the June 29 decision by the Trump-packed Supreme Court finally to ban race-conscious affirmative action? In this month’s “Meet the BIPOC Press” feature with URL Media, our guests fill in the blanks in the media coverage and correct some of the misconceptions about affirmative action, systemic racism, and how we got here. This time, Laura Flanders and co-host Sara Lomax of Philadelphia’s WURD Radio are joined by Washington DC-based journalist Brandon Tensley, the National Politics Reporter at Capital B, a nonprofit national and local newsroom reporting for Black communities across the country, and Claire Jean Kim, a political scientist and Asian American studies professor at UC Irvine in Southern California. Kim is also the author of the forthcoming book “Asian Americans in an Anti-Black World”. How will the recent Supreme Court decision affect diversity and fairness in US institutions, and what does solidarity with African Americans specifically look like in the US today?

“As someone who teaches about anti-Blackness and race, I can tell you how much that impacts the classroom to not have more diversity in the classroom . . . It affects the quality of education for everybody.” - Claire Jean Kim

“One of the professors I spoke to  put it very clearly when I asked him, ‘What will the higher education landscape look like post affirmative action?’ He was like, we don't need to theorize, we don't need to sort of imagine it. We can look to where this has already happened . . . “ - Brandon Tensley

Guests:

Claire Jean Kim: Professor of Political Science & Asian American Studies, UC Irvine; Author, Asian Americans in an Anti-Black World (Cambridge University Press, 2023)

Sara Lomax: Co-Founder, URL Media; President & CEO, WURD Radio

Brandon Tensley: National Politics Reporter, Capital B News

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “Sometimes I Wonder” by The Allergies from their full length album Tear The Place Up released on Jalapeno Records.  And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

Description:  The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990, a significant milestone in the fight for civil rights, with a vision of inclusion and respect for people with disabilities. But ableism, or discrimination in favor of able-bodied people, persists, affecting the one in four Americans with a disability. What does ableism mean and why is it still a prominent problem? Anita Cameron and Keith Jones, leaders in the disability rights and disability justice movements, have answers.

Cameron, who has been arrested nearly 150 times, participated in the "Capitol Crawl" for the passage of the ADA in 1990 and, later in 2017, she was part of the widely-publicized Rotunda Takeover with the disability advocacy group, ADAPT, to protest proposed Medicaid cuts. Her influential writings shed light on topics like ableism in media and the intersection of ableism and mental health. She currently heads the Minority Outreach at "Not Dead Yet", an organization committed to fighting ableism, or discrimination veiled as physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia of persons with disabilities.

As an African-American activist, entrepreneur, and father living with cerebral palsy, Keith Jones advocates for quality independent living for persons with disabilities. He also strives for equal access to housing, education, and voting rights - for all. In addition to his human rights work, Jones is the founder of SoulTouchin’ Experiences and has earned an Emmy award for his song "Rising Phoenix," a documentary about the Paralympic Games. This far-ranging feature, timed to coincide with the signing of the ADA on July 25, 1990, concludes with a commentary by Flanders.

“The lives of people with disabilities are so regulated, we don't have true autonomy. I can guarantee you that the access to healthcare, reproductive rights and all of that, we disabled women have to fight for that access anyway.” - Anita Cameron

“They like to either say, you're disabled or you’re a woman, you're disabled or you're queer, you're disabled or you're Black. That's not the case. We are an intricate mosaic of identities.” - Keith Jones

Guests:

Anita Cameron: Disability Justice Activist; Director of Minority Outreach, Not Dead Yet

Keith Jones: Human Rights & Disability Justice Activist; President, SoulTouchin’ Experiences

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:   “So Hip Hop” by Fezo de Mad One featuring Toni Kickman courtesy of the artist and Soul Touchin’ Experiences.  And additional music included- "In and Out" and "Steppin" by Podington Bear

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You can watch The Laura Flanders Show report on The Jubilee Justice Black Farmers Rice Project on PBS stations across the nation, or on YouTube. In addition, we offer an audio version by subscribing to this free podcast or airing on community radio. Check our community radio listings for stations airing the show, and if your favorite community radio station is airing the program.  If they are not, please let them know to add the show.  More details are  at LauraFlanders.org.

And my latest article for The Nation  is now available, also on The Jubilee Justice Black Farmers Rice Project.

The F-Word is released bi-weekly featuring timely commentaries by Laura Flanders and guests. 

The Laura Flanders Show is made possible by our listeners and viewers. Please become a sustaining member or make a one time donation at LauraFlanders.org/donate

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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Descpription:  Tens of millions of Americans cast their ballots in one of the most divisive elections in our lifetime, but what happens next? What are the teachings and takeaways from this historic presidential race, as well as critical local races and ballot initiatives? Laura Flanders & Friends presents an exclusive post-election roundtable discussion, featuring analysts and perspectives you won’t find in the money media. They include Guerline Jozef, a Haitian-American human rights advocate and Founder & Executive Director of The Haitian Bridge Alliance, called one of the “Most Influential People on Race, Politics, and Policy in the United States”; Judith LeBlanc, a citizen of the Caddo Nation and Executive Director of the Native Organizers Alliance; and Serena Sebring, Executive Director of Blueprint NC, a progressive ecosystem of nearly 60 groups working to build inclusive democracy in North Carolina. Join Laura and her guests as they examine what lies ahead for people, the planet and democracy. Where do we go from here? This conversation was recorded the morning of November 6, 2024.

Guests:

• Guerline Jozef: Founder & Executive Director, The Haitian Bridge Alliance

• Judith LeBlanc (Caddo Nation): Executive Director, Native Organizers Alliance

• Serena Sebring: Executive Director, Blueprint NC

Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country 

•  What’s On The Ballot In North Carolina? Abortion, Trans Life, A Governorship, & Multiracial Democracy, Watch / Podcast  

• Reporting on Policing at the Polls & BIPOC Voter Suppression in 2024, Watch / Podcast / Full Conversation

•  Not Party to Party Politics: Movement Leaders Consider Election ‘24, Watch / Podcast / Full Conversation

•  Haitian group in Springfield, Ohio, files citizen criminal charges against Trump and Vance, by Julie Carr Smyth, September 25, 2024, Associate Press

•  Why more Native Americans are on U.S. ballots than ever before, by Ximena Bustillo for Morning Edition, November 3, 2024, NPR-WAMU

•  Bidenomics Is Starting to Transform America.  Why Has No One Noticed? By Nicholas Lemann, October 28, 2024, New Yorker Magazine

Full Episode Notes are located HERE. They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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Description:  A bold experiment is taking place among Black farmers in the Southeast — a story of hope in an area with a history of plantation slavery, land theft and white violence. The Jubilee Justice Black Farmers' Rice Project is pioneering regenerative farming practices as a means to address systemic racism and make repair. This innovative project combines restorative economics, regenerative agriculture, and asset ownership as the path to address the harm done to Black farmers, and the environmentally harmful methods of rice production. In this exclusive report from The Laura Flanders Show, Laura Flanders reports on-location from Alexandria, Louisiana, where she meets Jubilee Justice Co-Founder and President Konda Mason, veteran civil rights crusader Shirley Sherrod and the Black farmers at the center of this story. Through knowledge sharing, collaboration and community support, this project endeavors to bridge the racial divide and foster a future rooted in justice and healing. Join us to discover how Jubilee Justice helps repair the damage from long-term racism and plant the seeds for a healthful and healing future.

“Restorative economics calls on us to first acknowledge the hurt and structural harm caused by economic systems of extraction and exploitation. It then requires us to engage in a conversation about repair.” - Nwamaka Agbo

“My goal is to not just grow organically and to be regenerative . . . but to do it in a way that's affordable so that everybody has access. Everybody has a right to good, nutritious food.” - Donna Isaac

“How can we balance all of the farming principles that we want to hold on to? How can we build soil health? How can we have a productive mill? . . . That’s the mission.” - Myles Gaines

“As Black farmers, we rarely own the land . . . And we are completely dependent upon a third party to say yes to my crop . . . What that mill represents is a vertical integration of their crop from growing it to milling it, to distributing it, and making their own decisions . . . We have to own the means of production.” - Konda Mason

“. . . It's not just the big guys who can come in and grow rice where it's not even healthy and feed it to all of us . . . We can pick our area, we can do it right, we can show care and love for each other, and that comes out in the food we provide.” - Shirley Sherrod

“We as a cohort have the deeds to this [rice mill]. It's going to be ours. If all else fails, we still have a building for people to come to, that they need . . . This building here is a stronghold for me and my heart.” - Bernard Winn

“Farmers are aging and their kids don't want to take [the farmland] over. So that land's going to go somewhere. Is it going to go to developers or is it going to go to people who care passionately about changing how the food that we eat is grown, for the betterment of society?” - Ken Lee

“. . . If you take care of the soil and if you farm regeneratively, you are going to not only get a better crop . . . but it's going to be more nutritious for the consumer and better for the environment. Regenerative is the future and we're totally committed to it.” - Caryl Levine

Guests:

Nwamaka Agbo: CEO, Kataly Foundation & Managing Director, Restorative Economies Fund

Donna Isaac: Farmer, Jubilee Justice Black Farmers Rice Project

Myles Gaines: Head of Innovation & Experimentation, Jubilee Justice Black Farmers Rice Project

Konda Mason: Founder & President, Jubilee Justice

Shirley Sherrod: Executive Director, Southwest Georgia Project for Community Education; Co-Founder, New Communities, Inc.; U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Equity Commission

Bernard Winn: Operations Specialist & Mill Manager, Jubilee Justice Black Farmers Rice Project

Caryl Levine and Ken Lee: Co-Founders & Co-CEOs, Lotus Foods; Partners with Jubilee Justice Black Farmers' Rice Project

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:  “Freedom and Progress” by Nicole Conte featuring Zara McFarlane from his full length album Umoja released on Far Out Recordings.

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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What if there was a way to trade time and share skills with your neighbors in a way that met a range of needs without involving cash?

In this episode, we have an in-depth conversation with Mike Strode, the Founding Coordinator behind an innovative solution that offers just that: The Kola Nut Collaborative. 

This Chicago-based initiative, operating since 2017, stands as a beacon of the solidarity economy, promoting timebanking as a means of social and economic transformation. Timebanking, distinct from traditional bartering, targets relationship-building over wealth accumulation, providing an alternative to profit-driven capitalist systems. Part of a growing new economy coalition, The Kola Nut Collaborative forges reciprocal networks of support and encourages a sharing economy.

In a timebank, time is treated as a currency, fostering fairness and enhancing community cooperation. Timebanking reshapes the conventional economic narrative and exposes participants to new economic thinking.

This enlightening conversation reminds us that there are multiple, co-existing economies within our society which transcend the confines of capitalism.

Tune in for more on timebanking, and how it just might work in your community. 

 “The notion of the lone entrepreneur funneling out on the boat is impossible. We get together by community. So starting a time bank involves you actually being in community.” - Mike Strode

“Solidarity economy is a post-capitalist framework. Ultimately we are still in capitalism . . . so until we rest ourselves from capitalism, we will continue to be very far from the solidarity economy.” - Mike Strode

Guest:  Mike Strode, Founding Coordinator, Kola Nut Collaborative Timebank

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:  “Fill My Cup” by POSY (pronounced Pose -ee) and Markell Holmes courtesy of Bastard Jazz Records.

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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What kind of country do we want as Americans? Gerrymandered Red by the Republican minority, Texas is a testing ground for restrictive policies and ideologies that export themselves to the rest of the country. We follow up on our episode from last year, “Forget Everything You Know About Texas,” to mark the one-year anniversary of the Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade and opened the door for states to ban or severely restrict the availability of abortion care. For this episode, we’ve reconvened a panel of organizers and activists in Texas to discuss what has (or hasn’t) changed on the abortion, trans and voting rights fronts, and the ongoing impact on women, girls, LGBTQ lives and democracy across the country. Our guests say that Texas may just be a predictor of how 21st-century change happens when people organize differently. They also acknowledge that the backlash has grown and are finding creative strategies to push back. Caroline Duble is the political director of Avow: Unapologetic Abortion Advocacy; Eesha Pandit is co-founder of the Center for Advancing Innovative Policy (CAIP) and Emmett Schelling is the director of the Transgender Education Network of Texas (TENT). This July 4, we discuss whose rights are in the crosshairs, and what Texas can teach us all about movement strategy. Plus, a commentary from Laura.

“In order for these bans on healthcare to be enforced, they require policing and surveillance and criminalization. We need to look to the leadership of Black advocates, of people who have been fighting the carceral state for decades. They were warning us about the dangers of criminalization and over-policing and surveillance long before this abortion ban existed.” - Caroline Duble

“The legal and legislative responses are vital. They are however, in a state like Texas, harm reduction approaches . . . We're trying to protect people's rights, and that often looks like stemming a legislative tide rather than enacting proactive things that will actually protect us and our families and our vision for our state.” - Eesha Pandit

“This was horrifically bad. We saw a record number of Texans come out in full opposition, to oppose seeing medical care rolled back and families targeted, physicians targeted, especially in a post-pandemic world that we still live in.” - Emmett Schelling

Guests:

Caroline Duble: Political Director, Avow: Unapologetic Abortion Advocacy

Eesha Pandit: Co-founder, Center for Advancing Innovative Policy (CAIP)

Emmett Schelling: Executive Director, Transgender Education Network of Texas (TENT)

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:  “State of the Nation” by Bokani Dyer featuring Damani Nkosi from his album ‘Sechaba’ released on Brownswood Records.  

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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"It’s being called the Minnesota miracle, but  Minnesota’s historic legislative session was no act of god."

The F-Word features timely commentaries by Laura Flanders

The Laura Flanders Show is made possible by our listeners and viewers. Please become a sustaining member or make a one time donation at LauraFlanders.org/donate
 

TEXT:

It’s being called the Minnesota miracle, but  Minnesota’s historic legislative session was no act of god.
 

Democrats in Minnesota wrote abortion rights into law and passed paid family and medical leave; they funded free breakfast and lunch for all k-12 students and passed protections for transgender people. Going forward, undocumented people will be able to get drivers' licenses and people released from prison or jail will be able to vote. There’s a one-time tax rebate, and a tax credit aimed at low income parents and a $1 billion investment in affordable housing including for rental assistance. Minnesotans passed stronger protections for workers seeking to unionize, banned conversion therapy for LGBTQ people and set a date by which the electric grid has to be carbon free. They tightened gun laws, loosened marijuana regs, and sent more money to nursing homes. That list’s probably still incomplete. 

In a tweet Barack Obama commented: “If you need a reminder that elections have consequences, check out what’s happening in Minnesota.”
 

The stunning session is certainly proof that voting matters. The Democratic Farmers and Labor Party (DFL) owed its trifecta power this session to midterm elections in which they won not just the Governor’s mansion, but also majorities in both houses thanks to a one-vote majority in the state Senate and narrow victories by a handful of candidates, one of whom won by just 321 votes.
 

But voting alone won’t do it. As the beloved late Minnesota Senator Paul Wellstone knew, legislative action doesn’t happen without massive, ongoing organizing by strong coalitions. In this case, long time labor, environmental and social justice activists worked in coalition, the Wellstone way, sometimes for years.  Minnesotans for Paid Family Medical Leave for example —a coalition of 70 labor, faith, and community groups—set their sights and worked to rally support for what they won this year for as much as a decade.
 

And not all majorities matter. Minnesota Democrats have held majorities before, but acted cautiously -- carefully conducting partisan calculus -- in the style of if you don’t mind me saying - Obama. Cautionary politics lost them the majority a decade ago. It’s taken that long to reboot.
 

In other words, Democrats in Minnesota learned the lesson that Democrats nationally should have learned from the Sen. Mansion experience  Partisanship’s nice but principles are better.

Finally, Minnesota Democrats didn’t just win political capital. They spent it, and they spent it in a bold way, with time to have an impact on real people’s lives before the next elections to the Governor’s office or the state Senate.

There’s more to be learned from the Minnesota story. Let’s hope some learn it. But the biggest takeaway? Suffice to say, there are no miracles in politics.

You can catch Laura's conversation with activists in Texas about how they’re surviving abortion bans and trumped up trans laws this time on the Laura Flanders Show on PBS stations, community radio stations and as a podcast or online at Lauraflanders.org.

@GRITlaura
@TheLFShow

The TV & radio show where the people who say it can't be done take a backseat to the people who are doing it! Watch on a PBS station near you or subscribe to the free podcast. LauraFlanders.org

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In this episode of the Laura Flanders Show, we explore both the struggles and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month 2023 by diving into the right-wing extremist backlash permeating the inclusive, family-friendly activity known as Drag Story Hour. We explore what LGBTQ activists are doing about it, and what the media is getting wrong (and right) in its portrayal of this conflict. 

Through the context of the historical brutality at New York's Stonewall Inn in 1969, as well as the modern legal challenges and reactionary legislations threatening queer self-expression — this episode highlights the various adversities faced by the community and what activists, allies and the media can do about it. 

Our guest, Naomi Dix, a drag artist from North Carolina, shares the shocking harassment her show faced in Moore County, which ultimately took place in the dark after a sabotage attack on an energy substation — an attack that left 45,000 households and businesses in the dark for five days in December 2022. 

In spite of such trials, the resilience and courage within the LGBTQ+ community and the role of allies in promoting diversity, acceptance, and empathy are on display through initiatives like Drag Story Hour. 

The media also plays a role in this conflict. Mainstream media often sensationalizes coverage of LGBTQ+ issues — but the movement calls for more nuanced, community-centric narratives. 

When looking at LGBTQIA+ issues through the historical lens of the gay rights movement, trans rights protests, and US Pride protests, the need for visibility, acceptance, and a balanced portrayal of the community's struggles and triumphs has never been clearer. 

Join us for this enlightening episode as we celebrate Pride Month 2023, reflecting on LGBT history, the gay and trans rights movement, and the ongoing fight for equality.

“We never thought in a million years, especially drag artists of my generation, that we would have to be facing the same things and issues that our parents were telling us that they were having to face in the 50s and the 60s and the 70s and the 80s.” - Naomi Dix

“What we're seeing is an overlapping of the identities that our communities represent, and the approach to how we combat these forces. It's really powerful when we can say the counter protestors outnumber those who don't want us here.” - Mitra Kalita

“I think that Drag Story Hour as a whole gives us a great look and a microcosm of drag trans and queer worlds, because it represents how they're being attacked in terms of losing rights to exist safely, and the Proud Boys, specifically digging their heels into inflammatory, destructive and untruthful accusations against these communities.” - Sam Zachar

Guests:

Naomi Dix: Drag Artist, Activist & Member of Durham NC BIPOC Operated House of Coxx; Co-Chair, Pride: Durham, NC

S. Mitra Kalita: Co-Founder, URL Media

Sam Zachar: Reporter, Podcast Producer, Epicenter-NYC

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   “Knockin’” by Nickodemus and Bad Colours featuring The Illustrious Blacks from Nickodemus’ Soul and Science Album, courtesy of Wonderwheel Recordings.

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Within the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and feminist activism, Holly Hughes and Esther Newton are pioneers — breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the fields of art, anthropology, activism, and LGBTQ+ representation. The work of Hughes and Newton have shaped our understanding of gender, identity, and community. Join us as we explore their significant contributions to LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, and human rights, delving into the power of queer kinship in overcoming anti-LGBTQ and anti-feminist ideologies. 

Holly Hughes, a writer and performer, made a lasting impact through her involvement in the renowned WOW Cafe in New York City. In the face of backlash and anti-LGBTQ sentiments during the 1990s, Hughes' art stood as a testament to the importance of queer rights and self-expression. 

Esther Newton, a pioneering anthropologist, is known for her groundbreaking 1972 book, "Mother Camp," the first major anthropological study of what would now perhaps be called an LGBT community in the U.S. Her perspective as a lesbian feminist challenged conventional notions of gender, fostering greater understanding and acceptance. Newton's work remains relevant in today's discussions on LGBTQ+ rights, LGBTQ+ rights in the Supreme Court, and ongoing LGBTQ+ issues. 

Their individual achievements have contributed to the advancement of LGBT rights, trans rights, and feminist causes. Their inspiring stories transcend boundaries, inspiring marginalized individuals to embrace their identities and advocate for inclusivity and acceptance. What can they teach us today, in the face of anti-LGBTQ bills, anti-gay laws and extremism? 

In this episode we discuss gender, identity, and Hughes and Newton’s commitment to intersectional feminism, queer kinship, and community-building to provide inspiration for fostering supportive networks and dismantling societal barriers. 

In celebration of Pride Month 2023, we honor the contributions of Holly Hughes and Esther Newton within the LGBTQ+ community, feminism, and the fight for a more just and inclusive society. Their conversation reminds us that the journey towards equality and acceptance is ongoing. Join us as we delve into their remarkable stories and explore the power of queer kinship in challenging anti-LGBTQ and anti-feminist beliefs. 

“I am very concerned and disheartened [by] the attacks on trans people. It's disheartening to see some of it coming from feminists. I think a lot of the people who are described as TERFs are not really Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists because they're not feminists. They're just exclusionary.” - Holly Hughes 

“Traditionally primary ties were supposed to be ‘blood family.’ Gay people have built structures outside of that, which I think is partly what's so appealing to young people. We must maintain those structures.” - Esther Newton 

GUESTS: 

• Holly Hughes, Performer & Writer; Professor, University of Michigan 

• Esther Newton, Professor of Anthropology, Founder & Leading Scholar LGBTQ Studies; Author, Mother Camp: Female Impersonators in America & My Butch Career: A Memoir

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   “Mirage” by WhatItDo Archive Group from their album ‘Palace of a Thousand Sounds’ released on Record Kicks.

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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In this episode, we dissect the harmful reality of America's ballooning drug prices—especially the life-and-death issue of insulin affordability—and share new legislation out of California. This is Big Pharma, explained. 

Today's three integral guests (listed below) join the Laura Flanders Show to discuss the pharmaceutical industry and how to end Big Pharma companies' monopoly. 

The current model of the pharmaceutical industry, in which profit-driven Big Pharma companies decide who manufactures treatments, where, & at what cost, is a threat to public health. 

Public pharmaceutical manufacturing could limit the enormous power of these Big Pharma companies and potentially spark a public health revolution. 

New legislation in California is a shift in the usual dealings of Big Pharma business. This state's groundbreaking move to produce insulin will eradicate the astronomical profit margins that private companies currently enjoy. This change has the potential to bring about significant economic and social benefits, enabling a larger demographic to engage in the workforce and community. And as you'll hear in the conversation, this discussion is not limited to the Democratic Party nor Republican Party — it's bipartisan. 

Access and equity in healthcare starts with systemic changes in pharmaceutical production and distribution. Here's what's happening in the US & globally.

“This has economic & social benefits for all of us...Having the public sector take a bigger role in the production of distribution of medicine historically starts to shift the balance of power.” -Dana Brown 

“Our current model for vaccine research development & distribution globally is colonial in many ways, because big pharmaceutical companies have the ability to decide who gets vaccines, treatments, insulin & other pharmaceutical products, & when & at which prices.” -Luis Gil Abinader 

“10% of the population has a chronic illness, & [pharmaceutical companies] are exploiting & extorting our need for this drug. It's coming to an end because people like me & rising up & talking about it & sharing our stories.” -Kevin Wren 

GUESTS: 

•  Dana Brown: Director, Health & Economy, The Democracy Collaborative 

•  Luis Gil Abinader: Legal Scholar; Fellow, Georgetown University Law O'Neill Institute; Board Member, Universities Allied for Essential Medicines (UAEM) 

•  Kevin Wren: Queer Activist & Patient Advocate Chapter Leader, California #insulin4all; T1International; Queer Activist & Patient Advocate, MA Evans School of Public Policy & Governance, University of Washington

Music In the Middle:   “Class War” by Grammy Award winners Zion Train from their latest album Dissident Sound released on Universal Egg.

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

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We thought that last year would go down in history, but this year is even worse for the number of anti-trans bills introduced into state legislatures, and the successful passage of many of those bills. 549 proposed bills, banning books, medical treatment, even access to the bathroom were introduced in 2023. 73 of those anti-trans bills have already passed and the ACLU’s weekly tracker can barely keep score. As extremists crank up the volume on hate — trans people, especially trans women of color, are facing an onslaught of violence. As today’s guest points out, the people driving the anti-trans movement are the same as those leading the anti-abortion movement. Imara Jones is featured in this year’s “Time’s 100 Most Influential People” for her work to combat disinformation against trans people. She’s the producer of a podcast mini-series called “The Anti-Trans Hate Machine: A Plot Against Equality”. The final three episodes of the podcast will release this June and July. Jones is also the creator of “TransLash Media”, a cross-platform journalism, personal storytelling, and narrative project, which seeks to shift the culture, create empathy and save trans lives. In this episode, Laura asks her what impacts these restrictions and increased control have on all of us.

“We're already seeing doctors that treat trans people being targeted just like abortion doctors. That's a new thing that just happened this year.” - Imara Jones

“There's an understanding by the people, the politicians, the organizations, and the billionaires that trans people will be the next fight in the gender wars, after what they anticipate, and have anticipated for over a year, to be their victory on abortion rights.” - Imara Jones

Guest:  Imara Jones: Founder and CEO, TransLash Media

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   “Making Sense Stop” by Charlotte Adigéry and Bolis Pupul from their new super synth-sonic album Tropical Dancer courtesy of Soulwax’s DeeWee Records.

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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What is causing the Black maternal mortality epidemic, and what can be done to save Black lives? The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of any high-income nation in the world — and it is Black mothers who are dying at the highest rates. Black birthing people are three times more likely to die in childbirth, but about 84% of those deaths are preventable. For this episode of Meet the BIPOC Press with our partner URL Media, a network of Black and Brown owned and operated news outlets, Laura Flanders is joined again by co-host Sara Lomax of Philadelphia’s WURD Radio. They invite Marianne Fray, the CEO of Maternity Care Coalition and Kenya Hunter, the Atlanta Health Reporter for Capital B News, to discuss how Black women and birthing people are taking control of their pregnancies. Explore the community-centered responses that may lead to better pregnancy outcomes and a more equitable healthcare system.

“We all came into this world through some person and it is a miraculous thing. If we could spend a little time reflecting on that, and then set up ourselves or whomever chooses to have children with the best possible outcome.” - Marianne Fray

“There was a researcher from the University of Colorado, Boulder, who predicted a 21% jump in pregnancy-related deaths in the country if Roe v Wade was overturned. But that number then jumps to 33% when you're talking about Black women.” - Kenya Hunter

“. . . Birth was a business practice in many ways. Children were ripped from us. Black women were experimented on by the ‘father of gynecology,’ Marion Sims in the 1840s . . .  I do think Black women are carrying a lot of historical trauma related to birthing and childbearing.”

Guests:

Marianne Fray: CEO, Maternity Care Coalition

Kenya Hunter: Atlanta Health Reporter, Capital B News

Sara Lomax: Co-Founder, URL Media; President & CEO, WURD Radio

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   “Time Shlime” by Rithma courtesy of Om Records.

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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It takes a village to move the microphone to stories that have real impact!  Premium content awaits you!  The latest is my full conversation with Angela M. Thorpe, Executive Director of the Pauli Murray Center.  Thorpe was featured in our special field report, 'Deciding the Fate of Democracy in North Carolina.'  Pauli Murray was a gender non-conforming, legal scholar and civil rights movement leader.  Her legal work was ahead of its time then and more relevant than ever today.  We know you will be just as inspired as we are here at The Laura Flanders Show!  Our goal is to raise $20K for our Flanders Field Reporting Fund!

Here's the article I wrote for The Nation in conjunction to our latest special report from North Carolina on extreme racial Gerrymandering and Moore vs. Harper.  It’s a case on the US Supreme Court docket that could give state lawmakers unchecked power over how elections are held — including who gets to vote.

Become a monthly supporter and you’ll receive my entire interview, along with all of our premium content from each week's episode.  Please go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate and become a monthly supporting member.  Thank you! 

Our field reporting is made possible  by you!  We do not take any corporate underwriting or government funding.  We depend on you! 

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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What If January 6 Happened Again? Exploring the Risks of Another Insurrection.

This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!

Description: What if January 6 happened again? Are we prepared for another post-election insurrection? “War Game” is a riveting political thriller that tackles this question head-on in what Rolling Stone calls, “the scariest documentary you’ll see this year.” “War Game” features a cast of senior officials war-gaming a constitutional crisis, including former North Dakota Senator Heidi Heitkamp, playing a senior advisor to a newly elected President, Retired US Army Lieutenant General Jeffrey Buchanan and Janessa Goldbeck, a Marine Corps veteran and the CEO of Vet Voice Foundation. This time on Laura Flanders & Friends, Laura’s joined by Goldbeck who also produced the war game that is at the center of the film as well as the film’s directors, Tony Gerber and Jesse Moss, both of whom are award-winning filmmakers. Together they discuss why many Americans — disproportionately military veterans — have joined domestic extremist groups, and what can be done. What reforms to the Insurrection Act are necessary at this moment? All that, plus a commentary from Laura on Donald Trump’s appearance at New York’s Madison Square Garden.

“. . . Domestic extremist groups, particularly on the far Right, have been targeting veterans and military family members for recruitment . . . We've seen veterans and active duty military disproportionately represented in places like the January 6 insurrection in 2021, where one in five of the people who were charged in the insurrection were actually military veterans.” - Janessa Goldbeck

"The notion that democracy is this sort of idyllic perfect thing that was once great and will be great again is a complete fabrication. Democracy has always been flawed, it's always been in process . . . There's got to be certain issues that we can all agree on, like the peaceful transfer of power.” - Tony Gerber

“[In the war game], we see a healthy politics model, people who probably disagree on a lot of things politically, but actually agree on one important thing, which is safeguarding our democracy . . . I think modeling healthy politics is really valuable today. It's hard to look around and see how people are working together across partisan divides to get work done on Capitol Hill or in state houses.” - Jesse Moss

Guests:

• Tony Gerber: Co-Director & Writer, War Game

• Janessa Goldbeck: CEO, Vet Voice Foundation; Game Producer, War Game

• Jesse Moss: Co-Director, Writer & Producer, War Game

Music In the Middle:  “America at War (Freedom)” by DJ Pope featuring Voices of Freedom released on Yellorange Records.  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear.

Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel

Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon

•  Political Violence & MAGA Militancy: Strategies to Protect Democracy Watch / Podcast + Uncut Full Conversation

•  Congressman Jamie Raskin On January 6th: After a Failed Coup, a Successful One?  Watch / Podcast + Uncut Full Conversation

• Community Safety in a Time of Insurrection: Watch / Podcast  

•  Graphic Artists Drawing Comix At The Margins:  Nate Powell and Mohammad Saba’aneh  Watch / Podcast

• ‘War Game’ Is the Scariest Documentary You’ll See This Year, by David Fear,August 2, 2024, Rolling Stone

•. The Posse Comitatus Act Explained, by Joseph Nunn, October 14, 2021, Brennan Center

• Legal experts worry about presidential abuse of the Insurrection Act. Here’s Why, by Carrie Johnson, March 28, 2024, NPR-WAMU

•  ‘Mischief and problems’:  rightwing activists ramp up drive to hand-count ballots, by Rachel Leingang, The Guardian

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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This episode offers insight into the conditions at Rikers and the movement to close it. The unauthorized NY Prison Guard Wildcat Strike is currently in its second week as of February 26, 2025.

The notorious Rikers, a 10-jail complex situated on an island in the East River of New York City, has become a national symbol and a symptom of our current approach to crime. The jail has over 6,000 inmates — the majority of whom are awaiting trial because they can’t afford bail — living in unconstitutionally inhumane conditions, a federal court once ruled. In October 2019, the New York City Council passed, and then Mayor Bill de Blasio signed into law, a plan to permanently close Rikers and replace the jails with four borough facilities by August 2027. But the proposed closure has hit roadblocks — from the left, from the right, from the prison guards union and from concerned residents who live near where new jails would be built. Although many support the Rikers closure, there is little agreement as to how and when — or what should replace it. Why is it so difficult to make changes to our challenged carceral system? Joining Laura to discuss the local and national implications of this story are Journalist Nick Pinto, co-founder of Hell Gate, a worker-owned news outlet covering New York City, and New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, who helped pass the law to close the jail. Elected Public Advocate last fall, he is now the prime sponsor of legislation that would ban solitary confinement in city jails.

“. . . The education that's necessary to bring the voting public along with this sort of change is difficult. It's especially difficult in the face of a concerted fear mongering campaign.” - Nick Pinto

“This is the first time I've seen a population of folks in the city and the state who are ready to receive a conversation that's holistic around public safety. And we're squandering it.” - Public Advocate Jumaane Williams

Guests:

Nick Pinto: NYC Journalist & Co-Founder, Hell Gate

Jumaane D. Williams: New York City Public Advocate

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   “Front Line” featuring Puma Ptah by Eric Hilton, from the Farewell to Midnight EP released on Eighteenth Street Lounge Records.

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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It's our May membership drive when we move the mic to you!  By becoming a member your voice of support amplifies our coverage of forward thinking movement movers and shakers.     Go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

This Mother’s Day, May 14th coincides with the formal end of the National Covid-19 Emergency. Since its enactment in March 2020, emergency spending expanded healthcare coverage to some 15 million people who will now be disenrolled, and increased food stamp benefits, and post-partum coverage in many states. Poor parents will be taking a hit — but Guaranteed Income could be the solution. The Magnolia Mothers Trust in Jackson, Mississippi is the first in the country to provide Guaranteed Income of $1000 monthly to low-income families headed by a Black woman living in affordable housing. Joining Laura for this Mother’s Day special are Aisha Nyandoro who leads this program as the CEO of Springboard Opportunities, a nonprofit organization working with residents in affordable housing to help them reach their goals; Anquoindria Moore, a mother of three was a recipient of this cash relief from Magnolia Mothers and Dorian Warren, the Co-President of Community Change, that  focuses on building the power of people most impacted by injustice. How does cash relief reduce poverty, and increase equity and security for families? All that, and a commentary from Laura on renewing, and renaming, the tax credit program.

“Clearly it is not only about the cash. I had the opportunity to meet some very wonderful people. I was also able to socialize with different women who were also in the same shoes as me or similar . . . The women there are not getting involved and then leaving you stranded.” - Anquoindria Moore

“When people have a little more breathing room, when they don't have to count every penny to pay bills . . . they actually have more time to get involved in our democracy and their communities and school board elections and town hall meetings . . . That is important for the promise of multiracial democracy in this country.” - Aisha Nyandoro

“We know that if we trust women in particular and give them agency, they will always do the right thing for their kids . . . What we're up against is basically ideologues and zombie ideas who are ignoring the evidence and the stories about the participants in these kinds of programs.” - Dorian Warren

Guests:

Anquoindria Moore: Recipient, Magnolia Mothers Trust

Dr. Aisha Nyandoro: CEO, Springboard To Opportunities

Dorian Warren: Co-President, Community Change

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   “Don’t Know What Tomorrow Brings” by Secret Night Gang from their forth coming album “Belongs on a Place Called Earth," courtesy of Brownswood Recordings.

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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"It has often been said that the US South is the testing ground for American democracy, which makes it frustrating how little attention national Democrats and their media pals give to Southern politics.  

A case in point is the decision by the North Carolina Supreme Court on April 28th, to reverse a series of election-related rulings that were handed down just months ago by the same court when it was dominated by Democrats."  

-excerpt from the latest commentary by Laura Flanders...

The F-Word is released bi-weekly featuring timely commentaries by Laura Flanders and guests.

You can hear that special report in our series on The War on Democracy by subscribing to this podcast feed or watch the show:

And take a listen/watch our prior special reports in the series:

• The Forgotten Coup, January 6th & the Small Town Americans on the Frontlines of Democracy Watch / Download Podcast

• Community Safety in a Time of Insurrection Watch / Download Podcast

• North Carolina: Courageous Conversations in a Climate of Fear Watch / Download Podcast

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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North Carolina has long been a battleground for democracy. So far, 27 people in the state have been indicted in connection with the effort to overturn the 2020 election on January 6th. No body of legislators has fought more fiercely to maintain Republican supermajority power in a demographically 50/50 state. On April 28, 2023, in a rare reversal of recent precedent, the new Republican majority on the North Carolina Supreme Court struck down a previous ruling that threw out gerrymandered voting maps. And in this term, the Supreme Court will decide on Moore v Harper, a case that could give state lawmakers unchecked power over how elections are held — and even who gets to vote. In this episode, Laura Flanders sits down with the NC Attorney General Josh Stein and Hilary Harris Klein, lead attorney on the North Carolina case along with veteran civil rights attorney and law professor, Irving L. Joyner to discuss what these cases mean for democracy and voters of color. What does a better vision of democracy look like? Durham is home to the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice, named after the human rights activist whose work was integral to the Civil Rights Movement. Murray's legacy lives on today, inspiring organizers who are determined to "bring the promise of democracy to life," as Angela M. Thorpe, the center’s Executive Director, puts it. Serena Sebring, the Executive Director of Blueprint NC, shares what’s needed to build Murray’s vision of a multiracial democracy. What’s at stake? And who’s pushing back?

“North Carolinians do not want this gerrymandering . . . What the legislatures are trying to do here is not the people’s business. It is their own political entrenchment.” - Hilary Harris Klein

“You had 30 African Americans in the North Carolina General Assembly and all of that came crashing down in 2010 with the election of Republicans . . . Their first order of business was to attack the success that we had had in building up African American political power.” - Irving L. Joyner

“It's not just Raleigh, it's not just Charlotte. It's not even just Durham that matters, but it is Columbus County, it is Pasquotank Country. It is all of the people of North Carolina who must be welcomed into a democracy, if it is to be what it says it is.” - Serena Sebring

“This legislature has been elected time and time again under unconstitutional maps . . . It’s not a surprise they have these powers, because that’s what they’ve done, is manipulate [voting maps] to their advantage.” - Josh Stein

“I think Pauli Murray would be incredibly concerned with the way legislatures and states across the US are working to strip people, particularly Black people, of their voting rights.” - Angela M. Thorpe

Guests:

Hilary Harris Klein: Senior Counsel of Voting Rights, Southern Coalition for Social Justice

Irving L. Joyner: Professor of Law, North Carolina Central University School of Law

Serena Sebring: Executive Director, Blueprint NC

Josh Stein: Attorney General, North Carolina

Angela M. Thorpe: Executive Director, Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   "Wings" by Terry Callier courtesy of Mr. Bongo Records.  Additional music,  'Steppin' & 'Electric Car' by Podington Bear.  "Unsilenced" by Ketsa.

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

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What does it mean to be a Muslim American in a society plagued by dangerous stereotypes and misconceptions? Hiba Ansari and Daria Mogahed share their insights on the challenges faced by this diverse community, highlighting the importance of good reporting, recognizing their contributions to America's history, and drawing parallels with the experiences of the Black community.

Listen in as Laura Flanders along with Dalia Mogahed, Director of Research, Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) and fellow journalists S. Mitra Kalita and Dalia Mogahed from the URL Media Network discuss the Muslim community's role in America as co-builders, emphasizing the importance of centering joy and entertainment as well as engaging in civic activities. Explore the multifaceted world of Muslim Americans, their contributions, and aspirations, as our panelists stress the need for politicians to engage with them and never take their vote for granted.

"I grew up immediately post 9/11 in an Internet world where oftentimes the only people I was seeing on TV that might have looked a little bit like me or people in my family were usually victims of war . . . And that can perpetuate really harmful stereotypes, about Muslim women especially." - Hibah Ansari

"I've been covering the Muslim community in New York City pretty much since after 9/11. This has been my whole trajectory for my career. But I have never seen a moment like this." - Mitra Kalita

“Why would you wait for someone to welcome you in your own home? If we don't feel like this is ours and ours to build and ours to fight for, we will never be truly equal in this country.” - Dalia Mogahed

Guests:

S. Mitra Kalita: Co-Founder, URL Media

Hibah Ansari: Reporter, Sahan Journal

Dalia Mogahed: Director of Research, Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU)

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   The Jimpster remix of “Mba-Mba” by Sid Vaga  & Nickodemus featuring Beni-Fadi , courtesy of Turntables on the Hudson Music.  Additional music,  'Steppin' by Podington Bear.

Chapters:

(0:00:03) - Challenging Stereotypes of Muslim Americans

(0:14:38) - Muslim Co-Builders

Chapter Summaries:

(0:00:03) - Challenging Stereotypes of Muslim Americans (15 Minutes)

Challenges faced by Muslim Americans due to dangerous stereotypes and misconceptions are discussed, highlighting the diversity within the Muslim community and the need for good reporting to challenge stereotypes. The conversation explores Muslim Americans' civic engagement and political leadership strides, as well as the similarities between their experiences and those of the Black community, particularly regarding law enforcement and surveillance. The discussion concludes with the mainstreaming of Muslims, including a recent Minneapolis City Council ordinance allowing public broadcast of the Islamic call to prayer five times a day.

(0:14:38) - Muslim Co-Builders (16 Minutes)

The Muslim community's role in America includes being co-builders and recognizing their contributions to the country's history. Mutual aid is a critical part of the Muslim community, as is centering joy and entertainment. The diverse community's voting habits indicate that politicians should engage with them and not take their votes for granted.

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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In this episode, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip hop and explore its impact on the world with special guests Rosa Clemente, an award-winning organizer, journalist, and historian, and Chuck D, leader and co-founder of the legendary group Public Enemy. We discuss the origins of hip hop in the Bronx, its influence on politics, activism, music, art, dance, and fashion, and how it has changed the world. We delve into the urgent need to address the growing issue of violence in black neighborhoods during the 1980s, the importance of cultural media in connecting people, and the power of information in shaping the future. Join us as we reflect on hip hop's 50th anniversary and consider the potential lessons to be learned from the culture and its influence on movements like Black Lives Matter. Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation!

“‘How [Hip Hop] changed the world?’ That's the tunnels and the roads that came out of the art form. How it got filled with the content to be able to make somebody think differently is the story of the execution and the elocution of rappers, DJs, break dancers, graffiti artists and activists.” - Chuck D

“Women continue to be erased, trans people continue [to be erased], LGBTQ people continue to be erased . . . Hip hop is critiqued solely as the place where these things happen. No, they're happening from the White House all over the world.”  - Rosa Clemente

Guests:

Rosa Clemente: Independent Journalist & 2008 Green Party VP Candidate

Chuck D: Hip Hop Pioneer, Activist & Co-Founder, Public Enemy

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:   Public Enemy’s “Bring in the Noise” performed by Brown-Out, from their album Fear of a Brown Planet, released on Fat Beats Records. Additional music included 'Steppin' by Podington Bear.

Chapters:

(0:00:03) - Fight the Power

(0:14:58) - Exploring Hip Hop and Social Change

Chapter Summaries:

(0:00:03) - Fight the Power (15 Minutes)

In this episode, we explore the impact of hip hop on the world as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, with guests Rosa Clemente, an award-winning organizer, journalist, and historian, and Chuck D, leader and co-founder of the legendary group Public Enemy. We discuss the origins of hip hop in the Bronx, its influence on politics, activism, music, art, dance, and fashion, and how it has changed the world.

(0:14:58) - Exploring Hip Hop and Social Change (14 Minutes)

In this discussion, we delve into the urgent need to address the growing issue of violence in black neighborhoods during the 1980s, as well as the role of hip hop in raising awareness and sparking change. The conversation also touches on the importance of cultural media in connecting people and the power of information in shaping the future. As we reflect on hip hop's 50th anniversary, we consider the potential lessons to be learned from the culture and its influence on movements like Black Lives Matter.

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

The Earth's temperature is rising at an alarming rate, and time is running out to change direction according to the IPCC. But veteran organizer/strategist Ben Jealous (formerly of the NAACP) sees history as being replete with examples of humans doing the unpredictable in history’s toughest moments. It’s that perspective, and those stories, compiled in his new book, that Jealous brings to his new job as head of the Sierra Club. The first African American to lead a “Big Green” environmental organization, Jealous explores his plans, the train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, and President Biden’s greenlighting of potentially catastrophic drilling projects in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska. All that, and a few thoughts from Laura about hidden history and the heroic motley crew.

“. . . We've got to show up to the American people with a vision that says we can build a better economy that lifts all boats. We have the technology, we have the resources, we have the demand, we have the will.” - Ben Jealous

Guest:  Ben Jealous: Executive Director, Sierra Club

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:  “Ode to Nature” by Hover Fly from the Climate Soundtrack Project, produced by DJ’s for Climate Action, a global initiative harnessing the power of dance music and DJ culture to power climate solutions and generate action.

Chapters:

(0:00:03) - Climate Change and Greed

(0:11:39) - Environmental Justice & Activism

Chapter Summaries:

(0:00:03) - Climate Change and Greed (12 Minutes)

In this episode, we explore the challenges and opportunities facing the environmental movement in the United States, particularly in light of the Biden administration's recent decisions on oil and gas projects. Our guest, Ben Jealous, discusses his new role as the leader of the Sierra Club and how his background in civil rights activism informs his approach to environmental issues. We also discuss the importance of creating unlikely alliances to address climate change and promote a greener, more equitable future for all. As the Earth's temperature continues to rise, the need for bold climate action becomes increasingly urgent.

(0:11:39) - Environmental Justice & Activism (17 Minutes)

We dive into a conversation with Ben Jealous, civil rights leader and the first African American executive director of the Sierra Club. As the organization reckons with its own systemic racism and the racism of its founder, we discuss Jealous' plans for addressing these issues and his latest book, "Never Forget Our People Were Always Free: A Parable of American Healing. " We also explore the Sierra Club's evolving role in supporting environmental justice communities, the importance of optimism in the face of the climate crisis, and the need for a broader political coalition to drive meaningful change for the environment'

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

Low income Americans face an acute housing shortage. But our guests have a victory to share. “Rabble Rousers: Frances Goldin and the Fight for Cooper Square" is a newly-released documentary telling the story of how a diverse group of New Yorkers, led by housing organizer Frances Goldin, fought a 50-year struggle against abandonment, white flight, violence, drugs and "Power Broker" Robert Moses to save a 12-block section of lower Manhattan from being destroyed. They created the first urban Community Land Trust (CLT), and thousands of homes and businesses were saved from speculation. The CLT established permanent low-income housing for Cooper Square residents. The film, which is out now from New Day Films, was directed and produced by our guests Kelly Anderson and Ryan Joseph, with Kathryn Barnier. Anderson and Joseph, along with historian Johanna Fernández join Laura to discuss the significance of Goldin, rabble rousing and the Cooper Square story for today. Plus, a commentary from Laura on “lost causes” that aren’t. 

“The housing situation is only getting worse…We need policy solutions to address problems that were created through racist and classist policies to begin with.” - Kelly Anderson

“What [Frances Goldin] creates is a model for others to follow. And that is the notion that public lands should be connected to the idea of the public good, meaning that they can never be sold at a profit in the future by people who live there.” - Johanna Fernández

“[Frances Goldin] wanted to make sure that the movement was integrated from the start. And in doing so, she formed coalitions quickly between Blacks, Browns, Jews, Puerto Ricans . . . She was able to take the movement to City Hall because she had people in numbers.” - Ryan Joseph

Guests:

Kelly Anderson: Producer/Director, “Rabble Rousers: Frances Goldin and the Fight for Cooper Square”

Johanna Fernández: Professor, 20th Century US History & the History of Social Movements at Baruch College & the Graduate Center CUNY

Ryan Joseph: Producer/Director, “Rabble Rousers: Frances Goldin and the Fight for Cooper Square”

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:  “Place Delight” featuring Patti Austen, from the Home Ground project produced by Stephen Hemmer.

Chapters Summary:

(0:00:03) - The Fight for Cooper Square

(0:10:35) - The Legacy of Cooper Square

(0:18:52) - Advocating for Affordable Housing

(0:28:32) - A Collective Effort

Chapter Summaries:

(0:00:03) - The Fight for Cooper Square (11 Minutes)

In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Frances Goldin and the Cooper Square Committee's fifty-year fight to save a twelve-block stretch of lower Manhattan from abandonment, white flight, and the powerful developer Robert Moses. The documentary film 'Rabble Rousers: Frances Goldin and the Fight for Cooper Square' highlights this David vs Goliath battle, where a diverse group of New Yorkers came together to save thousands of homes and businesses from destruction. In 1970, they won approval for their alternate development plan, and today, a community land trust and mutual housing association are in place, providing affordable homes in the area.

(0:10:35) - The Legacy of Cooper Square (8 Minutes)

We delve into the factors that set the Cooper Square neighborhood apart from other communities threatened by Robert Moses' bulldozers, and how the 50-year battle for its survival succeeded. Key contributors to this success included collaborating with urban planner Walter Thabit to develop a vision for the community and securing control over the land. Additionally, the neighborhood's rich history of working-class politics and values, as well as its diverse and creative community, played a significant role in the victory. Today, the area is home to a diverse population and a range of minority-owned and woman-owned businesses, fostering a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem.

(0:18:52) - Advocating for Affordable Housing (10 Minutes)

We discuss the concept of community land trusts, which involve communal land that cannot be sold for profit and should be connected to the public good. The conversation touches on the housing crisis, the role of land speculation, and potential remedies such as reparations for African Americans. Various ongoing initiatives in New York City are mentioned, including efforts to keep public land public and increase community control over land. The importance of collective action and persistence in housing struggles is highlighted, emphasizing the need for a movement organized around the public good. The legacy of Frances Goldin serves as an inspiring example of successful organizing and advocacy for housing rights.'

Shownotes created by https://podium.page

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

In this episode, I dive deep into discussions on the state of the banking system and the economy, touching on topics such as the stress in the banking system, the implications of the recent Silicon Valley Bank situation, and the challenges faced by central banks in reducing inflation. We also explore the rise of nationalism in politics and its impact on policy decisions, the increasing influence of money in the political landscape, and the potential consequences of a plutocratic society. Additionally, we delve into the role of international institutions like the IMF and the World Bank in addressing global issues and the challenges they face in democratizing decision-making. In the second part of the episode, we explore the challenges facing modern society, including low birth rates, wage stagnation, and labor market issues. We discuss the potential influence of Europe's more cooperative economic models, as well as the importance of rational argument and finding alternative solutions to current problems. Join me for this fascinating and insightful conversation with my sister and guest, Stephanie Flanders, head of economics and government at Bloomberg. It's an episode you won't want to miss!

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Music In the Middle:  “Saints and Sinners” by Bluey of Incognito from his solo album Life Between the Notes released on Shanachie Records.

Chapters:

(0:00:00) - Latest stress in the banking system. Internationalism.  

(0:05:32) - Economic Statecraft & Globalization.  Subsidy wars?  IMF & China.

(0:8:20) - What happens to Democracy when so much money is so much and so concentrated?  Heading to a Plutocracy?

(0:12:15) - Music Break

(0014:40) Silicon Valley Bank, what happened?  State of the banking system.  Alternatives to the banking system.

(00:17:24) - What can be done to create better checks and balances.  

(00:19:50) - How profit margins factor from EU to US.  Birth Rates and the Economy. 

(0:24:00) - What is the story the future will tell about now?

(00:25:40)  - Laura's closing commentary

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

In this episode, Laura explores the unorthodox documentary "Sell By Date" by Tony Award-winning performer and comedian Sarah Jones. We discuss the complex issues of sex, power, race, and our economy through the lens of various characters played by Jones herself. The film features interviews with real people both in and out of the sex industry, offering diverse perspectives on the subject matter. We also dive into the challenges and experiences faced while creating the documentary, the importance of amplifying marginalized voices, and the potential for a healthier understanding of sexuality and power dynamics in society. Join Laura and Sarah Jones as they navigate these thought-provoking topics and more in this insightful conversation.

Guest:  Sarah Jones, Tony Award-winning Solo Performer, Writer, Comedian & Activist; Director & Star, Sell/Buy/Date

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

This podcast includes an endorsement for Best of the Left, with host Jay! Tomlinson.  We think you'll dig it too!

Music In the Middle:  “Sold Out” by Ultra Naté from her new album Ultra courtesy of Blufire and Peace Biscuit.

Additional Music: "Many Hands & "Steppin" by Podington Bear

Chapters:

(0:00:00) - Sex and Power Dynamics

(0:11:07) - Sex Work and Society

(0:23:22) - Sex, Gender, Marginalization

(0:27:04) - Women in the Workplace

(0:32:28) - Marginalization of Women

(0:41:57) - What About Moonlight?

Chapter Summaries:

(0:00:00) - Sex and Power Dynamics (11 Minutes)

In this episode, we explore the unorthodox documentary by Tony Award-winning performer and comedian Sarah Jones, titled "Sell By Date" The film delves into topics such as sex, power, race, and our economy and examines these complex issues through the lens of various characters played by Jones herself. The documentary also features interviews with real people both in and out of the sex industry, offering diverse perspectives on the subject matter. Alongside Jones, the film includes appearances from celebrities like Rosario Dawson and Bryan Cranston.

(0:11:07) - Sex Work and Society (12 Minutes)

We discuss the challenges and experiences faced while creating the unorthodox documentary "Sell By Date," a film by Tony Award-winning performer and comedian Sarah Jones. The film aims to bring complex conversations about social justice and the sex industry to a wider audience, while also addressing the backlash faced from various groups. We also explore the difficulties encountered while navigating the commercial aspects of the entertainment industry and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices. Finally, we touch on the benefits of healing from stigma, shame, and secrets, and the potential for a healthier understanding of sexuality and power dynamics in society'

(0:23:22) - Sex, Gender, Marginalization (4 Minutes)

We dive into the importance of access to reproductive health and abortion, as well as the need to challenge societal norms around female sexuality. The conversation touches on the double standards that exist and the potential consequences of slut-shaming and stigma. The discussion also includes the perspective of a Bronx taxi driver who joined the journey and highlights the organization A Call to Men, which aims to address the negative effects of toxic masculinity on both men and women. The conversation emphasizes the importance of honest dialogue around these topics and dismantling oppressive hierarchies in the sex industry'

(0:27:04) - Women in the Workplace (5 Minutes)

We explore the idea of expanding the concept of "Sell By Date" into other forms of content, such as podcasts and anthology series, to address various societal issues, including climate change, gun violence, and healthcare. We discuss the potential for future generations to look back on our current moment and see how far we have come in terms of policy and cultural attitudes. Additionally, we touch on the portrayal of women and sex in the media and the importance of honest connection and conversation in the age of social media'

(0:32:28) - Marginalization of Women (9 Minutes)

We explore the portrayal of women on screen and discuss the narrow boxes in which certain women have been placed. The conversation touches upon stereotypes, over sexualization, and the lack of humanity given to women in media. We also discuss the horror virgin dichotomy and the complex nature of women's roles in society today. Furthermore, we examine intersectionality and the impact of marginalization on women's access to choices in a democratic society. Finally, we consider the potential emergence of a COVID-era character and the importance of global conversations about freedom and liberation'

(0:41:57) - What About Moonlight? (1 Minutes)

We delve into the poetic and evocative imagery of moonlight, exploring its symbolism in moments of vulnerability, fear, and desire for freedom. The conversation navigates through the emotional landscape of seeking solace and release, asking the poignant question: what about the moonlight?'

Episode Keywords:

Sarah Jones, Sell By Date, Documentary, Sex Industry, Power Dynamics, Marginalized Voices, Sexuality, Social Justice, Reproductive Health, Toxic Masculinity, Women in Media, Stereotypes, Intersectionality, Honest Dialogue, Cultural Attitudes, Female Sexuality, Double Standards, Stigma, Oppressive Hierarchies, Moonlight Symbolism

Shownotes created by https://podium.page

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

LAURA FLANDERS - COMMENTARY 

And one of those came to mind was in 1999, when V, then known as Eve Ensler of Vagina Monologues and V-Day and One Billion Rising fame, filled that 18,000 seat stadium, with women and their allies pledging themselves to stop violence against women and girls, to stop gender-based violence in our lifetime. Improbable? Unlikely? Unpredictable? You bet. They laced the whole place with red caution tape that read “rape-free zone.” Was it surprising? Yes, but it happened all the same, albeit with less media coverage. Other things have happened in the last few years that should surprise us and remind us of what we can accomplish when we decide to. We invested trillions of dollars in infrastructure rebuilding and creation of new jobs. We saw millions of people brought out of poverty thanks to an increase in the child tax credit. We saw pharmaceutical prices brought down. We saw investments in industries that will help reduce climate change. And we saw a pandemic stopped in its tracks, largely, by the very speedy creation of a vaccine. In our lifetime, too, I was reminded this past weekend at Madison Square Garden that we were celebrating the 100th anniversary of a public transportation system. The New York City subway, again the product of commitment, investment of public dollars for the public good. A surprise, perhaps, that we could ever accomplish such things. But we have. And we can do it again. So surprises, bad? Sure. Possible. Surprises, good? I'm putting my belief and confidence there. I think more good surprises are in store for us if we simply put our minds to it and maybe invest, invest a bit of our effort and our cash. Till the next time, I encourage you to spend the week as you will, but stay kind and stay curious. And join me back here next time when we convene a special all-star panel to reflect on Election Day. You can find all the information at our website. And don't forget, every week the podcast subscribers, the people that subscribe to our free podcasts receive the uncut version of every conversation. And believe you me. Much of the conversation that I'd love to bring to you ends up on the cutting room floor. So subscribe to the podcast. Subscribe to our channel right here on YouTube. And if you haven't told your friends about us, write a review or share with your pals. It's how we get out the word about this show.

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Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

Rosa Parks is best known to Americans as a national treasure — the little old lady who sat down on a bus and “ended racism.” What we lose in that depiction is what happened before and afterward, which is to say most of the story of Park’s lifetime of activism. Soledad O'Brien, the award-winning journalist and producer, has just executive  produced the first ever full-length documentary on the Civil Rights icon, titled “The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks.” based on the book by Jeanne Theoharis, and directed by Yoruba Richen and Johanna Hamilton. The film tells a much fuller story of the woman best known for her role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. The film is also being used to create a curriculum for K-12 students. Laura welcomes back Soledad for this revealing conversation on Parks, her legacy, and what the media got wrong. Why is it essential to dispel the myths and to fully understand the role that strategic organizing played in the actions of Rosa Parks, and the implications for her life, and ours today?

“Who knew Rosa Parks was a fan of the Black Panthers? Who knew Rosa Parks was as much of a fan of Malcolm X as she was of Dr. King? What does it say about this vision we had of Rosa Parks, where everybody knows her and yet even Hollywood celebrities can't identify this woman who's called the mother of the movement.”

“I talk about mistakes I made all the time. I don't mind. I'm happy to, I did them. They exist on tape somewhere. It's okay, let's fix it. Let's get better from it. I think we just need more introspection.”

Guest:  Soledad O’Brien, CEO of Soledad O'Brien Productions; Award-winning Journalist, Producer & Philanthropist; Executive Producer, The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

Chapters (full conversation)

00:00:00  Introduction to the program.

00:01:37  How did the new documentary about Rosa Parks story come together?  They discuss some highlights from her untold story especially as an activist.  She embraced change by any means necessary.  Shockingly you'll learn that the 'mother of the movement' was destitute and often ignored.   What it means when we only get a partial picture of a person's body of work in the civil rights movement.

00:12:05  They discuss the challenges of being a journalist in these times.  What is good journalism especially when covering the run up to an election?  With regard to Maggie Haberman's book "Confidence Man:  The Making of Donald Trump, and the Breaking of America", what does the role of 'access' play, and who does it serve?   Ask yourself 'what's the framing?'   

00:17:55  They discuss covering politics in these times and share advice as two seasoned journalists.  The difference between spinning a story and overtly lying.  Why it's important to highlight hypocricy.  

00:20:09  They discuss the book the documentary is based on and the telling of a more complex story beyond the headlines.  How was it possible that she was the mother of the movement, yet destitute.   How women were left out of the narrative when it came to the work in the civil rights movement.

00:23:50  The discussion pivots to the topic of 'city and community development projects,' and the challenges in these times with regard to race relations.  How do you make sure your city is serving you?

00:28:00  Activism is a long game!  There's a curriculum that accompanies the documentary film.  The author of the book the documentary is based on, and others are taking the documentary and the greater story of Rosa Parks to public schools across the country.  What's next for Soledad O'Brien and her production company?

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

Join Laura and Gina for this impactful conversation on combating anti-Asian hate.  A new documentary on PBS, Rising Against Asian Hate: One Day in March, spotlights the movement to turn grief into action and address the challenges that exist when it comes to prosecuting anti-Asian hate crimes. Executive producer Gina Kim is an Emmy-nominated producer, and the film features narration from actress Sandra Oh, original music by Jon Batiste and is directed by Titi Yu.

“Out of the hate crimes that were being prosecuted against Asian Americans, only 3% ended in a conviction, which is incredibly low.” - Gina Kim

“. . . People aren't just lying down and saying, ‘This is what it is.’ They're fighting back and protecting their communities.” - Gina Kim

Guest:  Gina Kim, Emmy-nominated Producer & Executive Producer, Rising Against Asian Hate: One Day in March

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

This podcast includes an endorsement for Best of the Left, with host Jay! Tomlinson.  We think you'll dig it too!

Music In the Middle:  “Home” by Academy and Grammy Award-winner, Jon Batiste, and Grammy nominated Cory Wong.  It’s an original score they produced for the documentary film “Rising Against Asian Hate:  One Day in March”

Additional Music: "Many Hands & "Steppin" by Podington Bear

Chapters (full conversation)

00:00:00  Best of the Left podcast endorsement from Laura

00:03:01  Height of the Covid 19 pandemic spikes violence against the Asian community.  Laura shares a clip from the documentary. Gina shares some historical perspectives on Asian Hate in America.  Connection between Asian communities in Atlanta and San Francisco

00:10:04  Hate crime legislation challenges when applied to the Asian community and speaking out.   

00:12:47   Re-introduce guest & subject.

Music in the Middle: “Home” by Academy and Grammy Award-winner, Jon Batiste, and Grammy nominated Cory Wong.

00:15:33  The myth of Asian Americans as the model minority.  Statistics related to the Asian American community and breaking down stereotypes.  Movement building and the challenges for organizers in the Asian American Community in Atlanta, Georgia.  The story of the first Asian American State Senator elected in Georgia, the growing voting block and changing demographics.

00:21:39  They discuss some grassroots initiatives keeping AAPI Americans safer;  The real fears Asian Americans face.  Gina shares details in bringing together their documentary film crew made up of predominantly Asian Americans, and the difficulties they faced personally working on the documentary together.

00:27:18  Laura’s closing commentary on the effects of racism, and hate language, currently and historically especially for Asian Americans facing a spike in hate crimes.

00:28:54  Outro including more information, how you can support the show, show credits and major funders.

00:30:09  FIN

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!

Laura and guest, Abigail Disney, ask how long can corporations sustain the “American Dream” at the expense of their workers.  Is the American Dream dead?  While most Americans are earning less than their parents and economic mobility is on the decline, the median net worth of the top 10 billionaires in the world has nearly tripled over the last decade.  Abigail Disney, the granddaughter of Roy Disney, one of the founders of Disney, discovered that some employees were earning one two-thousandth of the earnings of CEO Bob Iger.  She wrote to Iger, testified in Congress and ultimately made a film, “The American Dream and Other Fairy Tales.”  Abigail underscores the need to tax the top 1%, speaks out against corporate greed and calls out the policies and values that created such gaping inequality at Disney and across the business world.  Abigail Disney is an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker, and an activist. The film, co-directed with Kathleen Hughes is available for streaming now. 

“There was a woman who played Winnie the Pooh for many years . . . six days a week, who died in her car. That was really a galvanizing moment for a lot of the folks that I spoke to, because the wrongness of this was all concentrated in this one moment.” - Abigail Disney

“Absent collective bargaining, we are all subject to the tender mercies of Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. Collective bargaining is the only way workers have to democratically represent their own interests in the workplace.” - Abigail Disney

Guest:  Abigail Disney, Documentary Filmmaker & Social Activist; Co-Director & Producer, The American Dream & Other Fairy Tales; Founder Fork Films; Producer & Host "All Ears"

Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.

This podcast includes an endorsement for Best of the Left, with host Jay! Tomlinson.  We think you'll dig it too!

Music In the Middle:  “Black Fros Black Gold - All You Zombies Dig the Luminosity” by Burnt Sugar, The Arkestra Chamber from their ‘Twentieth Anniversary Mixtapes: Groiddest Schizznits, Volume 3’.

Additional Music: "Many Hands & "Steppin" by Podington Bear

Chapters (full conversation)

00:00:00  Best of the Left podcast endorsement from Laura

00:05:40 Gaping disparities between the Disney Corporation and employees at Disney theme parks; it’s personal for Abigail Disney.

00:08:43  From the founders to the current CEO, Abigail Disney investigates, and reflects on what happened

00:13:27 Shifting the status quo toward justice, civil rights, assault on unions, wage disparities, capitalism

00:21:37  Re-introduce guest & subject.

Music in the Middle: “Black Fros Black Gold - All You Zombies Dig the Luminosity” by Burnt Sugar, The Arkestra Chamber from their ‘Twentieth Anniversary Mixtapes:  Groiddest Schizznits, Volume 3’

00:24:13  Gap between have’s and have not’s, what to do? Money in politics

00:28:00  Hope for the future addressing injustices and inequities.  Raising wages vs raising taxes. Auditing, the tax code.

00:37:00  Reconstruction, shared dreams, well being and accomplishments.

00:41:00 Woke Capitalism, fruits of labor, aspirations

00:44:46  Closing commentary from Laura on history, anxiety and change

00:46:37  FIN

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer.

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