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Summary
In this episode, we are in conversation with youth leaders, Jeremiah Salazar and Joelle Hennington-Jeffries, and staff member, Joseph Williams of the Police Free LAUSD Coalition to discuss the criminalization and overdisciplining of Black students in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). The Police Free LAUSD Coalition aims to improve schooling conditions for Black students and emphasizes the importance of community involvement and racial equity. We discuss how the Coalition has been successful in improving schooling conditions for Black students, such as, banning the use of pepper spray by school police against students. Importantly, guests argue that change for students doesn’t happen without concern for their families and communities.

Takeaways
School safety must be reimagined without police presence.
Funding Black futures is a priority for the coalition.

Film and Petition mentioned in this Episode

• SIGN this petition to defend Black students in LAUSD and protect the Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP) by putting the BLACK back in BSAP!
• 13th Documentary

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Summary
For this episode, I am in conversation with Dr. Ariana Denise Brazier, Diana Gamez, Professor Damien M. Sojoyner, and Luma Hasan; four of the book contributors inThe Promise of Youth Anti-Citizenship: Race and Revolt in Education edited by Drs. Kevin L. Clay and Kevin Lawrence Henry Jr. We explore the concept of anti-citizenship, particularly in relation to youth and their experiences within educational systems. Guests discuss how anti-citizenship serves as a framework for understanding the struggles faced by marginalized communities, particularly for Black, Salvadoran, and Palestinian youth. They highlight the importance of play and community organizing as forms of resistance and survival, and examine the intersections of racial capitalism and citizenship. This conversation delves into the complexities of nation-state development, racial capitalism, and the implications of anti-Blackness in migration dynamics. Guests also explore the fragility of these systems and the role of education in shaping citizenship. Finally, they discuss the importance of collective action and community resilience in the face of systemic oppression, emphasizing the need for a reimagined understanding of citizenship that transcends traditional frameworks.

Takeaways
Anti-citizenship provides a framework for understanding youth experiences.
Play is a vital form of resistance for marginalized youth.
The concept of citizenship is often misleading and exclusionary.
Racial capitalism shapes the experiences of Black youth in education.
Community organizing is essential for creating alternative structures of justice.
The narratives of Salvadoran youth are often criminalized and misunderstood.
Youth are capable of navigating oppressive systems through their own agency.
Education systems often perpetuate violence against marginalized communities.
The historical context of citizenship reveals deep-rooted inequalities.
Healing can occur through naming and contextualizing experiences of oppression.
The fragility of nation-state development is a constant concern.
Racial capitalism intertwines with the logics of race.
Education serves as a critical tool for social order.
Anti-Blackness is foundational to the racial order in cities like Los Angeles.
Migration patterns are influenced by U.S. foreign policy and violence.
Rejecting citizenship's assimilation is vital for marginalized communities.
Educators play a crucial role in challenging oppressive systems.
Collective action is essential for dismantling state power.
Community resilience can thrive outside state structures.
Understanding our collective power is key to liberation.

Sound Bites
"This is a healing journey for me."
"I am forever grateful for the timeliness of it (anti-citizenship framework)."
"Anti-citizenship became a gift."
"They (Black youth) know what's going on."
"They (Black youth) fight their own battles."
"They (Black youth) were able to create these spaces of thriving."
"There is no true participation within the civic."
"Education is tied to the hip with the civic."
"There's no acceptable way to be disruptive."
"We need to be bound in community."

Books and Scholars Referenced in this Episode:

• Militant Education, Liberation Struggle, Consciousness: The PAIGC education in Guinea Bissau 1963-1978 by Sónia Vaz Borges
• Ruth Wilson Gilmore

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Summary
For this episode, I am in conversation with Drs. Kevin L. Clay and Kevin Lawrence Henry Jr., editors of the book, The Promise of Youth Anti-Citizenship: Race and Revolt in Education. We discuss the narrow confines of citizenship as defined by the state, especially in terms of what constitutes the ‘good’ citizen versus the ‘bad’ or ‘deviant’ citizen. We also uncover the complexities of civic engagement, recognizing political strategies beyond voting, and the need for collective action and engagement in radical organizations. Additionally, we emphasize the need for solidarity and collective action to combat the divisions created by racial capitalism. Explored are the impacts of social proximity on understanding shared struggles and the sacrifices required for true activism. Our conversation culminates in a reflection on the role of love and relationships with youth as a sustaining force in the work.

Takeaways
Traditional civic education has limitations.
Civic institutions are designed to maintain the status quo.
Black resistance is diverse and multifaceted.
Voting is just one aspect of citizenship.
Protests often go unheard, leading to civic estrangement.
The state often does not represent the interests of marginalized communities.
Class dynamics are crucial in discussions about Black capitalism.
The transition to middle-class civics can create divisions.
Solidarity is essential for collective action against anti-citizenship.
Understanding anti-citizenship requires a focus on collectivity. Being in right relationship and solidarity is critical.
We lose the ability to be in solidarity when we are not in community.
Sacrifice and discomfort are often required for solidarity.
Understanding our shared fate is essential for collective action.
The shift in social proximity affects our understanding of community.
We must actively build relationships to understand our neighbors' struggles.
Ignoring global issues impacts our local communities.
Investing in radical organizations is crucial for social change.
Love sustains and propels us in our activism.

Books, Articles, and Scholars Referenced in this Episode:

• Black Marxism: The Making of the Black Radical Tradition by Cedric J. Robinson
• Closed for Democracy: How Mass School Closure Undermines the Citizenship of Black Americans by Sally A. Nuamah
• Black Bourgeoisie: The Book That Brought the Shock of Self-Revelation to Middle-Class Blacks in America by E. Franklin Frazier
• "Black Curriculum Orientations: A Preliminary Inquiry" by William Watkins
• Adolph Reed
• William Julius Wilson

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Summary
Dr. Tiffany M. Nyachae and Dr. Ruth M. López question the utility of the identifier “People of Color” and whether we should abandon it as a term of unspoken solidarity and political strategy given the recent social media uproar around the fact that a large percentage of Latinos voted for Trump in the 2024 presidential election. In this conversation, they reflect on their experiences as Women of Color and the challenges of navigating social media discussions around race and solidarity. The dialogue emphasizes the need for nuanced conversations about identity, solidarity, and responsibility in the face of anti-blackness and other forms of oppression while offering necessary pathways forward. The conversation also delves into the fragility of masculinity in discourse, the exhaustion of political engagement, and the need for critical conversations around voting and accountability. They emphasize the importance of unpacking terms like “Black and Brown” and the oversimplification of voting demographics in media narratives. As they explore the complexities of racial identity, particularly the term "People of Color" and its implications, they discuss the historical context of this term, its evolution, and the importance of solidarity among marginalized groups. The conversation highlights the challenges of collective advocacy, the need for clear communication, and the significance of teaching future generations about solidarity and social justice. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of understanding individual and collective identities while navigating the complexities of race and politics.

Takeaways
Social media can amplify voices but also complicate discussions.
Anti-blackness exists within various communities and must be addressed.
Racial identity is not monolithic; it varies across individuals.
Political choices can have profound impacts on Communities of Color.
Terminology like “People of Color” can obscure real differences in experiences.
Education is crucial in understanding historical and systemic issues.
Conversations about race and identity require trust and vulnerability.
There's a responsibility to document stories in our communities.
Assumptions about Latinx identities often lack historical context.
Voter fatigue is a real issue in political engagement.
Voting is just one part of a larger political project.
Terms like “Black and Brown' need careful unpacking.
Media oversimplifies the complexities of voting demographics.
Historical context is crucial in understanding racial terms.
Solidarity among marginalized groups is essential for social change.
Teaching children about solidarity is vital for future generations.
Racial terminology has evolved and continues to change.
The narrative around racial identity is often messy and complex.
Conversations about race should be ongoing.

Articles and Books Referenced in this Episode:

• "Anti-Black Latino Racism in an Era of Trumpismo" by Jasmine M. Haywood
• "'People of color' are Protesting. Here's what you need to know about this New Identity" by Efrén Pérez
• The Miner's Canary: Enlisting Race, Resisting Power, Transforming Democracy by Lani Guinier and Gerald Torres
• "'People of Color' as a Category and Identity in the United States" by Paul Starr and Edward P. Freeland

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Summary
In this episode, we showcase the work of Migizi, an Indigenous youth-serving organization based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Tiffany Nyachae is in conversation with Migizi youth workers, Kija Deer and Kaylin Lopez. They discuss their roles, the importance of community, and how Migizi fosters cultural connections and social development. The conversation highlights the significance of providing spaces for youth to explore their identities and the challenges faced by urban Native youth in connecting with their culture. In this conversation, Tiffany, Kija, and Kaylin discuss the importance of cultural identity among Indigenous youth, the challenges of cultural disconnection, and the role of community organizations in fostering support and reconnection to culture. They explore how cultural practices and mentorship can empower youth, the significance of educational support, and the joy found in personal passions. The dialogue emphasizes the need for patience and understanding from adults towards Indigenous youth, highlighting the reciprocal nature of relationships within the community.

Takeaways

Migizi provides a comfortable space for youth.

Cultural practices are essential for youth identity.

Community support is crucial for youth development.

Youth need places to relax and connect after school.

Cultural opportunities help reconnect youth with their heritage.

The importance of mentorship in youth programs.

Urban areas can disconnect Native youth from their culture.

It's never too late to learn about one's culture.

Building bonds within the community fosters growth.

Youth programs should focus on cultural and social development.

Cultural disconnection is a significant issue for Indigenous youth.

Reconnecting with cultural identity is essential for personal growth.

Community organizations play a vital role in supporting youth.

Mentorship from older generations is invaluable for youth development.

Educational support is crucial for academic success.

Youth bring new energy and ideas to community organizations.

Patience and kindness are necessary when working with Indigenous youth.

Engaging in cultural practices nurtures the spirit and identity.

Personal passions, like math and art, contribute to joy and fulfillment.

Building connections within the community fosters a sense of belonging.

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In this episode, I interview Dr. Wayne Au and Dr. Dolores Calderón, two of the three authors of the award-winning book and inspiration for the series, Reclaiming the Multicultural Roots of U.S. Curriculum: Communities of Color and Official Knowledge in Education. We discuss how different Communities of Color have resisted erasure from U.S. curriculum and the importance of recovering and synthesizing these histories in ways that are decolonial and outside the white gaze. The authors also discuss their approaches to recovering these histories and documenting the fight for structural and curricular inclusion in schools and self-determination among Communities of Color marginalized by race, ethnicity, culture, indigeneity, language, and/or immigration status in the U.S.

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Summary
In this conversation, Tiffany Nyachae, Joaquin Muñoz, and Hollie Anderson Kulago discuss the significance of the show Reservation Dogs in representing Indigenous stories and experiences. They explore personal connections to the show, the authenticity of its storytelling, the role of setting, and the interplay of spirituality and community. The discussion highlights the importance of representation in media and how the show resonates with Indigenous audiences, showcasing humor, strength, and cultural identity. The conversation delves into the complexities of Indigenous identity, the impact of historical trauma, and the importance of relationality and kinship in healing. They explore the intersections of history, spirituality, and contemporary struggles faced by Indigenous youth, emphasizing the need for accountability and the reclamation of cultural practices. The dialogue highlights the significance of intergenerational relationships and the role of community in navigating these challenges.

Takeaways

• Reservation Dogs offers a unique representation of Indigenous youth.
• The show reflects real-life experiences and complexities of Indigenous communities.
• Authenticity in storytelling is crucial for meaningful representation.
• The setting in Reservation Dogs serves as a character that enhances the narrative.
• Spirituality is woven into the fabric of the show, reflecting Indigenous beliefs.
• The humor in the show resonates deeply with Indigenous audiences.
• The characters embody a range of experiences that challenge stereotypes.
• The show is a celebration of Indigenous culture and identity.
• Community support is a central theme in the characters' journeys.
• Indigenous youth are navigating historical trauma and contemporary struggles.
• Organized religion has played a complex role in Indigenous contexts.
• The spirit world is a significant aspect of Indigenous identity.
• Diverse representations of Indigenous experiences disrupt stereotypes.
• The show serves as a rich resource for understanding Indigenous epistemologies.
• Characters in the show can be analyzed through Indigenous pedagogies.
• Relationality is crucial for healing across generations.
• Kinship ties are essential for holistic wellbeing in Indigenous communities.
• The importance of accountability in addressing historical injustices.
• The show exemplifies the need to reclaim Indigenous cultural practices.

Sound Bites

• "It's our stories being told from our perspective."
• "This is a coming back to ways of knowing."
• "The youth remind us that we need our ancestors."
• "This show embodies an entire curriculum."

Sources
1. https://deadline.com/2022/06/reservation-dogs-sterlin-harjo-taika-waititi-interview-devery-jacobs-dpharaoh-woon-a-tai-1235038398/

2. https://www.npr.org/transcripts/1116992735

3. https://www.incluvie.com/articles/the-power-of-the-reservation-dogs

4. https://time.com/6317495/reservation-dogs-series-finale-review/

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Summary
This episode and series is inspired by Dr. David O. Stovall’s book, Born Out of Struggle: Critical Race Theory, School Creation, and the Politics of Interruption. Dr. Tiffany M. Nyachae is in conversation with hunger strikers, Dr. Patty Buenrostro and Andrea X. Guzmán. We explore the rich history of activism in the Little Village and North Lawndale neighborhoods of Chicago, focusing on their personal stories as community members involved in education justice and the hunger strike movement. The guests discuss the tensions between Black and Brown communities, the impact of historical segregation, and the importance of intergenerational relationships in sustaining social movements. They also reflect on the outcomes of their activism, the legacy of the hunger strikes, and the ongoing fight for equitable education in their neighborhoods.

Takeaways

The importance of personal stories in activism.

Community organizing is essential for education justice.

Tensions between communities can be rooted in historical segregation.

Hunger strikes can be a powerful form of protest.

Intergenerational relationships strengthen social movements.

Activism requires love and commitment to the community.

The legacy of past struggles informs current activism.

Community support is crucial during protests.

Education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all.

The fight for justice is ongoing and requires collective effort.

Other Books Referenced in this Episode:

A Political Education: Black Politics and Education Reform in Chicago since the 1960s by Elizabeth Todd-Breland

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