https://simplecast.com No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast Series No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Limited Podcast Series is a five episode series that explores crucial questions about the future of social movements, particularly the racial justice movement. How do we continue to push back against the rise of authoritarianism and safeguard the hard-won victories of recent years? This year has seen a dramatic shift in the political landscape with President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 election and endorsement of his Vice President Kamala Harris to replace him at the top of the Democratic ticket. Against a backdrop of widespread protests over the United States’ Middle East policies, contentious presidential campaigns, and unsettling instances of political violence, we find ourselves navigating a period of significant uncertainty. The echoes of the 2016 election, when "no matter what happens" became a catchphrase of unpredictability and upheaval, resonate more than ever. As we look back over the past eight years—marked by former President Trump’s felony conviction, a conservative Supreme Court reshaping our nation's framework, and a growing erosion of trust in democratic institutions, this series lifts up the voices of esteemed thought leaders, activists, and former civil servants. Their insights on the election's potential implications and strategies for advancing racial equity in the years ahead will help us navigate the future, "no matter what happens. en Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:25:53 +0000 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:26:03 +0000 https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast Series https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/549e95db-928a-444d-9ff0-880c2ce52bd0/59dd936a-6a70-476e-9654-847215f30c18/3000x3000/nomatter-1080.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com episodic No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Limited Podcast Series is a five episode series that explores crucial questions about the future of social movements, particularly the racial justice movement. How do we continue to push back against the rise of authoritarianism and safeguard the hard-won victories of recent years? This year has seen a dramatic shift in the political landscape with President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 election and endorsement of his Vice President Kamala Harris to replace him at the top of the Democratic ticket. Against a backdrop of widespread protests over the United States’ Middle East policies, contentious presidential campaigns, and unsettling instances of political violence, we find ourselves navigating a period of significant uncertainty. The echoes of the 2016 election, when "no matter what happens" became a catchphrase of unpredictability and upheaval, resonate more than ever. As we look back over the past eight years—marked by former President Trump’s felony conviction, a conservative Supreme Court reshaping our nation's framework, and a growing erosion of trust in democratic institutions, this series lifts up the voices of esteemed thought leaders, activists, and former civil servants. Their insights on the election's potential implications and strategies for advancing racial equity in the years ahead will help us navigate the future, "no matter what happens. Race Forward true https://feeds.simplecast.com/lTUEu1Ej activism, immigration, race, racial justice, social justice Race Forward hleiva@raceforward.org 928d60ea-2678-4f18-b618-d5c0cfdb9866 Navigating the Tides of Racial Justice Amid Political Shifts with Timothy Green IV In this episode, Marsha Guthrie, Senior Director of GARE (Government Alliance on Race and Equity), speaks with Timothy Green IV, Culture Change Leader in the Office of Equity & Inclusion for the City of Albuquerque. Timothy shares his experiences as a government practitioner, emphasizing the importance of deep dialogue, intersectionality, and prioritizing Black women in leadership to drive meaningful change. Together, they explore the strategic shifts necessary to counter heightened political rhetoric and policies while addressing the systemic inequities that persist in democratic systems.

The conversation also highlights the transformative role of storytelling and the contributions of artists and intellectuals in shaping movements for equity. Timothy reflects on the need to reconcile historical traumas while fortifying democratic norms against the growing threat of authoritarianism. By centering the resilience of communities and the ongoing fight for civil liberties, this episode offers powerful insights into the intersections of culture, equity, and governance, providing actionable inspiration for listeners committed to justice and inclusion.

]]> Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:25:53 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/navigating-the-tides-of-racial-justice-amid-political-shifts-with-timothy-green-iv-yW7Rjzul In this episode, Marsha Guthrie, Senior Director of GARE (Government Alliance on Race and Equity), speaks with Timothy Green IV, Culture Change Leader in the Office of Equity & Inclusion for the City of Albuquerque. Timothy shares his experiences as a government practitioner, emphasizing the importance of deep dialogue, intersectionality, and prioritizing Black women in leadership to drive meaningful change. Together, they explore the strategic shifts necessary to counter heightened political rhetoric and policies while addressing the systemic inequities that persist in democratic systems.

The conversation also highlights the transformative role of storytelling and the contributions of artists and intellectuals in shaping movements for equity. Timothy reflects on the need to reconcile historical traumas while fortifying democratic norms against the growing threat of authoritarianism. By centering the resilience of communities and the ongoing fight for civil liberties, this episode offers powerful insights into the intersections of culture, equity, and governance, providing actionable inspiration for listeners committed to justice and inclusion.

]]> Navigating the Tides of Racial Justice Amid Political Shifts with Timothy Green IV Race Forward 00:17:21 racial justice, community organizing, racial equity false full 10 2 0022f052-4c2b-4582-958e-44f533c4644d St. Louis, Solidarity, and Systemic Change with Jeremy Al-Haj In this episode, Rinku Sen, Executive Director of The Narrative Initiative, joins Jeremy Al-Haj, Executive Director of the Missouri Worker’s Center, for a powerful discussion on the significance of hosting the conference in St. Louis. They explore the city’s deep-rooted ties to racial and economic justice movements, highlighting its role as a historical and contemporary battleground for equity and systemic change. Jeremy reflects on the transformative power of multiracial coalitions and workplace organizing as key strategies for dismantling systemic inequities, emphasizing the critical role these efforts play in addressing intersectional challenges tied to race, class, and gender.

The conversation also celebrates recent organizing victories in Missouri, such as raising the minimum wage and restoring abortion rights, showcasing the potential for collective action to drive legislative progress even in polarized environments. Together, Rinku and Jeremy examine how national conferences amplify local struggles, foster connections, and energize efforts to build inclusive, democratic spaces. 

]]> Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:25:42 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/st-louis-solidarity-and-systemic-change-with-jeremy-al-haj-1P_EeCO4 In this episode, Rinku Sen, Executive Director of The Narrative Initiative, joins Jeremy Al-Haj, Executive Director of the Missouri Worker’s Center, for a powerful discussion on the significance of hosting the conference in St. Louis. They explore the city’s deep-rooted ties to racial and economic justice movements, highlighting its role as a historical and contemporary battleground for equity and systemic change. Jeremy reflects on the transformative power of multiracial coalitions and workplace organizing as key strategies for dismantling systemic inequities, emphasizing the critical role these efforts play in addressing intersectional challenges tied to race, class, and gender.

The conversation also celebrates recent organizing victories in Missouri, such as raising the minimum wage and restoring abortion rights, showcasing the potential for collective action to drive legislative progress even in polarized environments. Together, Rinku and Jeremy examine how national conferences amplify local struggles, foster connections, and energize efforts to build inclusive, democratic spaces. 

]]> St. Louis, Solidarity, and Systemic Change with Jeremy Al-Haj Race Forward 00:28:50 racial justice, community, community organizing, racial equity false full 9 2 49b8e432-d794-4e00-8fb5-464837bf2e4c Building Grassroots Power for Public Education and Beyond with Damaris Allen In this episode, Anastasia Ordonez, Director of H.E.A.L. (Honest Education Action & Leadership) Together, and Damaris Allen, Executive Director of Families for Strong Public Schools, reflect on the 2024 election results and their far-reaching implications for racial and educational justice. Damaris emphasizes the urgency of grassroots organizing to counter growing threats to public goods like education, which remain under sustained political attack. Anastasia expands the conversation by highlighting the critical intersection of public schools with broader movements, such as climate justice, demonstrating how advocacy for educational equity is deeply connected to larger systemic issues. Together, they outline strategies for strengthening community-based power, shifting from reactive resistance to proactive planning, and building a foundation of resilience to confront challenges ahead.

The discussion underscores the importance of collective action in fostering hope and driving transformative change. Anastasia and Damaris explore how public schools serve as a battleground for the broader fight against inequity and authoritarianism, positioning them as key to safeguarding democracy and community well-being. They share insights on mobilizing local communities to reclaim public education and advance a vision of justice that centers the needs of all families, particularly those most marginalized. By linking grassroots organizing with long-term strategies and solidarity across movements, the episode offers actionable pathways to sustain hope and momentum in the fight for a just and equitable future.

]]> Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:25:16 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/building-grassroots-power-for-public-education-and-beyond-with-damaris-allen-LEIsFGwX In this episode, Anastasia Ordonez, Director of H.E.A.L. (Honest Education Action & Leadership) Together, and Damaris Allen, Executive Director of Families for Strong Public Schools, reflect on the 2024 election results and their far-reaching implications for racial and educational justice. Damaris emphasizes the urgency of grassroots organizing to counter growing threats to public goods like education, which remain under sustained political attack. Anastasia expands the conversation by highlighting the critical intersection of public schools with broader movements, such as climate justice, demonstrating how advocacy for educational equity is deeply connected to larger systemic issues. Together, they outline strategies for strengthening community-based power, shifting from reactive resistance to proactive planning, and building a foundation of resilience to confront challenges ahead.

The discussion underscores the importance of collective action in fostering hope and driving transformative change. Anastasia and Damaris explore how public schools serve as a battleground for the broader fight against inequity and authoritarianism, positioning them as key to safeguarding democracy and community well-being. They share insights on mobilizing local communities to reclaim public education and advance a vision of justice that centers the needs of all families, particularly those most marginalized. By linking grassroots organizing with long-term strategies and solidarity across movements, the episode offers actionable pathways to sustain hope and momentum in the fight for a just and equitable future.

]]> Building Grassroots Power for Public Education and Beyond with Damaris Allen Race Forward 00:16:31 racial justice, community organizing, social justice, education, racial equity, antiracism false full 8 2 1f279fc1-1044-4050-98f9-9027ed1a019e Collective Power and Solidarity in Challenging Times with Sulma Arias In this episode, Sulma Arias, Executive Director of People’s Action, and Christi Tran, Chair of Race Forward’s Board of Directors and Senior Adviser at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, come together to explore the transformative power of community and solidarity in confronting today’s political challenges. Reflecting on the energy and historical significance of this year’s conference, they delve into the critical importance of building collective power to drive meaningful change.

Drawing lessons from past resistance movements, Sulma and Christi discuss how moments of individual and collective reckoning can ignite transformative action. They highlight strategies for organizing a just, multiracial democracy, balancing the urgency of immediate resistance with the need for a long-term vision. Their conversation underscores the importance of resilience, connection, and thoughtful action in navigating an increasingly complex global and political landscape.

]]> Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:25:04 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/collective-power-and-solidarity-in-challenging-times-with-sulma-arias-N0n1vfs3 In this episode, Sulma Arias, Executive Director of People’s Action, and Christi Tran, Chair of Race Forward’s Board of Directors and Senior Adviser at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, come together to explore the transformative power of community and solidarity in confronting today’s political challenges. Reflecting on the energy and historical significance of this year’s conference, they delve into the critical importance of building collective power to drive meaningful change.

Drawing lessons from past resistance movements, Sulma and Christi discuss how moments of individual and collective reckoning can ignite transformative action. They highlight strategies for organizing a just, multiracial democracy, balancing the urgency of immediate resistance with the need for a long-term vision. Their conversation underscores the importance of resilience, connection, and thoughtful action in navigating an increasingly complex global and political landscape.

]]> Collective Power and Solidarity in Challenging Times with Sulma Arias Race Forward 00:22:11 race forward, racial justice, community organizing, social justice, peoples action, organizing, racial equity false full 7 2 2aba907f-8725-4eb8-b437-e4cee533b0c5 Revolutionary Generosity: Ramon Ramirez on Building Multiracial Movements for Justice On the first episode of the second installment of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, Eric Ward, Executive Vice President of Race Forward, sits down with Ramon Ramirez, a Race Forward board member and Coordinator of the Elders Network. Together, they examine the power of multiracial coalitions in confronting the pressing challenges of racial and social justice.

Drawing connections between today’s political struggles and historic movements, Ramon reflects on the enduring need for Black-Brown unity and intergenerational collaboration. They explore the role of the Elders Network in mentoring young activists and building resilience in an increasingly polarized climate.

Through deeply personal narratives, Eric and Ramon consider a question at the heart of activism: how can revolutionary generosity and care across communities sustain movements for justice?

]]> Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:48:20 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/revolutionary-generosity-ramon-ramirez-on-building-multiracial-movements-for-justice-Qdh6rQhm On the first episode of the second installment of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, Eric Ward, Executive Vice President of Race Forward, sits down with Ramon Ramirez, a Race Forward board member and Coordinator of the Elders Network. Together, they examine the power of multiracial coalitions in confronting the pressing challenges of racial and social justice.

Drawing connections between today’s political struggles and historic movements, Ramon reflects on the enduring need for Black-Brown unity and intergenerational collaboration. They explore the role of the Elders Network in mentoring young activists and building resilience in an increasingly polarized climate.

Through deeply personal narratives, Eric and Ramon consider a question at the heart of activism: how can revolutionary generosity and care across communities sustain movements for justice?

]]> Revolutionary Generosity: Ramon Ramirez on Building Multiracial Movements for Justice Race Forward 00:21:25 false full 6 2 82149a85-9398-4509-a488-3b48ff4cfe07 Toward Inclusive Belonging: A Conversation with john a. powell on Equity and Resilience On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, host Candace Moore, Race Forward’s Senior Strategic Advisor speaks with john a. powell, Director of the Othering and Belonging Institute, as they reflect on the conference theme, "Othering without Belonging." They discuss how belonging, while essential for human thriving, often comes at the cost of marginalizing others. john powell emphasizes the need to create a society that fosters belonging without exclusion, citing contemporary examples from political rallies and social movements that illustrate this troubling dynamic.

Candace shares her experiences as a civil rights attorney, underscoring the challenge of moving beyond merely dismantling systemic barriers to actively building equitable structures. john reinforces this idea, arguing that resistance alone is inadequate and urging for a positive vision that embraces inclusivity. They highlight the importance of resilience, noting that significant societal changes often arise during crises, such as the Civil War and the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting a reevaluation of societal values.

The conversation culminates in a call for a new narrative that recognizes the contributions of all individuals, stressing that no community is disposable. jon powell and Candace advocate for a society rooted in the belief that every life matters equally, urging listeners to challenge the systems that perpetuate inequities. The episode concludes with a reminder that the journey toward true belonging and inclusion is ongoing, encouraging active participation in building inclusive communities.

]]> Fri, 1 Nov 2024 07:20:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/jon-a-powell-Bz7OGV3m On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, host Candace Moore, Race Forward’s Senior Strategic Advisor speaks with john a. powell, Director of the Othering and Belonging Institute, as they reflect on the conference theme, "Othering without Belonging." They discuss how belonging, while essential for human thriving, often comes at the cost of marginalizing others. john powell emphasizes the need to create a society that fosters belonging without exclusion, citing contemporary examples from political rallies and social movements that illustrate this troubling dynamic.

Candace shares her experiences as a civil rights attorney, underscoring the challenge of moving beyond merely dismantling systemic barriers to actively building equitable structures. john reinforces this idea, arguing that resistance alone is inadequate and urging for a positive vision that embraces inclusivity. They highlight the importance of resilience, noting that significant societal changes often arise during crises, such as the Civil War and the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting a reevaluation of societal values.

The conversation culminates in a call for a new narrative that recognizes the contributions of all individuals, stressing that no community is disposable. jon powell and Candace advocate for a society rooted in the belief that every life matters equally, urging listeners to challenge the systems that perpetuate inequities. The episode concludes with a reminder that the journey toward true belonging and inclusion is ongoing, encouraging active participation in building inclusive communities.

]]> Toward Inclusive Belonging: A Conversation with john a. powell on Equity and Resilience Race Forward 00:20:50 false full 1 2 e4282b44-770f-42f2-b24e-d306e88ed6f9 Beyond False Harmony: Nwamaka Agbo on Community-Driven Democracy and Economic Justice On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, host Cathy Albisa, Race Forward’s Vice President of Institutional and Sectoral Change sits with Nwamaka Agbo, CEO of the Kataly Foundation, discussing key issues like democracy, racial justice, and restorative economics. Nwamaka shares her extensive experience in policy advocacy and the mission of the Kataly Foundation, which focuses on redistributing resources to empower Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color.

The conversation revisits the significant events of 2016, particularly the calls for unity following January 6th, with Nwamaka reflecting on her piece "Rejecting False Harmony." She critiques the expectation for marginalized communities to bridge divides without adequate support and stresses the importance of redefining democracy to include everyday community governance. Through the Restorative Economies framework, Nwamaka highlights the need for deep relationships within communities as the foundation for genuine democratic participation.

As the episode concludes, Nwamaka emphasizes the resilience of community solidarity amidst political challenges and the role of mutual aid and local governance in promoting long-term strategies. She envisions a government that actively regulates markets and ensures access to essential resources, reshaping societal narratives around who has the opportunity to thrive. This discussion underscores the importance of sustained commitment to racial and economic justice, making it a must-listen for those interested in transformative change.

]]> Fri, 1 Nov 2024 07:15:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/nwamaka-agbo-twaESCT9 On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, host Cathy Albisa, Race Forward’s Vice President of Institutional and Sectoral Change sits with Nwamaka Agbo, CEO of the Kataly Foundation, discussing key issues like democracy, racial justice, and restorative economics. Nwamaka shares her extensive experience in policy advocacy and the mission of the Kataly Foundation, which focuses on redistributing resources to empower Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color.

The conversation revisits the significant events of 2016, particularly the calls for unity following January 6th, with Nwamaka reflecting on her piece "Rejecting False Harmony." She critiques the expectation for marginalized communities to bridge divides without adequate support and stresses the importance of redefining democracy to include everyday community governance. Through the Restorative Economies framework, Nwamaka highlights the need for deep relationships within communities as the foundation for genuine democratic participation.

As the episode concludes, Nwamaka emphasizes the resilience of community solidarity amidst political challenges and the role of mutual aid and local governance in promoting long-term strategies. She envisions a government that actively regulates markets and ensures access to essential resources, reshaping societal narratives around who has the opportunity to thrive. This discussion underscores the importance of sustained commitment to racial and economic justice, making it a must-listen for those interested in transformative change.

]]> Beyond False Harmony: Nwamaka Agbo on Community-Driven Democracy and Economic Justice Race Forward 00:20:13 false full 2 2 255e4be3-6a31-4a2c-b2ce-48d3ba0e8081 Cultural Strategy and Policy Change: Favianna Rodriguez on the Art’s Role in Advocacy On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, Hendel Leiva Race Forward's Manager of Podcasts and Audio spoke with Favianna Rodriguez, President of the Center for Cultural Power. Their conversation spanned years of cultural activism and highlighting the evolving role of arts in social movements. Favianna emphasizes that while political and economic organizing has been integral, the arts are now increasingly acknowledged for their vital contribution to building public support for policy change.

Favianna discussed the transformative potential of art across various disciplines, illustrating how it can drive significant social change. She shares her experience with projects such as her 'Migration is Beautiful' butterfly artwork, which became a powerful symbol against anti-immigrant sentiments during the Trump administration. Collaborations, like the one with Ben & Jerry’s on the 'Pecan Resist' ice cream, showcasing the ability of corporate partnerships to amplify activist messages, reinforcing the importance of cultural interventions in countering divisive narratives.

Addressing progressive organizations, Favianna advocates for a multifaceted approach to social change that integrates political, cultural, and economic strategies, emphasizing local impact. She highlights the need for progressive movements to counteract opposition narratives by fostering alternative stories through engaging cultural practices. Ultimately, Favianna underscores the indispensable role of imagination and cultural values in navigating political and social challenges, advocating for a future rooted in justice and inclusivity through the power of art and storytelling.

*Note – this episode contains strong language regarding the conflict in the Middle East that does not wholly align with Race Forward's positions. 

]]> Fri, 1 Nov 2024 07:14:06 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/favianna-rodriguez-J59ZYAEZ On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, Hendel Leiva Race Forward's Manager of Podcasts and Audio spoke with Favianna Rodriguez, President of the Center for Cultural Power. Their conversation spanned years of cultural activism and highlighting the evolving role of arts in social movements. Favianna emphasizes that while political and economic organizing has been integral, the arts are now increasingly acknowledged for their vital contribution to building public support for policy change.

Favianna discussed the transformative potential of art across various disciplines, illustrating how it can drive significant social change. She shares her experience with projects such as her 'Migration is Beautiful' butterfly artwork, which became a powerful symbol against anti-immigrant sentiments during the Trump administration. Collaborations, like the one with Ben & Jerry’s on the 'Pecan Resist' ice cream, showcasing the ability of corporate partnerships to amplify activist messages, reinforcing the importance of cultural interventions in countering divisive narratives.

Addressing progressive organizations, Favianna advocates for a multifaceted approach to social change that integrates political, cultural, and economic strategies, emphasizing local impact. She highlights the need for progressive movements to counteract opposition narratives by fostering alternative stories through engaging cultural practices. Ultimately, Favianna underscores the indispensable role of imagination and cultural values in navigating political and social challenges, advocating for a future rooted in justice and inclusivity through the power of art and storytelling.

*Note – this episode contains strong language regarding the conflict in the Middle East that does not wholly align with Race Forward's positions. 

]]> Cultural Strategy and Policy Change: Favianna Rodriguez on the Art’s Role in Advocacy Race Forward 00:32:39 true full 3 2 2d163b4a-c4bb-45a1-9ba9-882dc04dc97c A Third Force in Politics: Maurice Mitchell on Creating a Multiracial Working-Class Movement On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward host Cathy Albisa, Race Forward’s Vice President For Institutional and Sectoral Change sits with Maurice Mitchell, National Director of the Working Families Party, in a discussion about his philosophies and worldview rooted in his experiences as a longtime organizer in the movement, now in a leadership position building a “multiracial party that…wants an America which realizes the promise – unrealized in our history –– of freedom and equality for all.” 

Maurice reflects on his immigrant background from Trinidad and Grenada, sharing how his upbringing and early experiences with systemic inequities fueled his commitment to building a multiracial working-class movement aimed at dismantling barriers related to race, class, gender, and immigration status.

Maurice highlights his extensive activism, from addressing criminal justice issues on campus to leading campaigns against jail expansion and corporate pollution. He emphasizes the need for a "third force" in American politics to challenge the bipartisan system and advocates for an inclusive democracy where working people have genuine decision-making power. He critiques symbolic gestures without substantial structural changes, urging a holistic approach to address the intertwined issues of economic and racial justice.

The conversation underscores the inevitable backlash social movements face as a sign of progress. Maurice encourages listeners to engage strategically in activism, whether by joining existing organizations like the Working Families Party or creating new political homes that reflect their values. The episode concludes with a call to action, inspiring listeners to unite in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

]]> Fri, 1 Nov 2024 05:40:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/maurice-mitchell-eU0neKnS On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward host Cathy Albisa, Race Forward’s Vice President For Institutional and Sectoral Change sits with Maurice Mitchell, National Director of the Working Families Party, in a discussion about his philosophies and worldview rooted in his experiences as a longtime organizer in the movement, now in a leadership position building a “multiracial party that…wants an America which realizes the promise – unrealized in our history –– of freedom and equality for all.” 

Maurice reflects on his immigrant background from Trinidad and Grenada, sharing how his upbringing and early experiences with systemic inequities fueled his commitment to building a multiracial working-class movement aimed at dismantling barriers related to race, class, gender, and immigration status.

Maurice highlights his extensive activism, from addressing criminal justice issues on campus to leading campaigns against jail expansion and corporate pollution. He emphasizes the need for a "third force" in American politics to challenge the bipartisan system and advocates for an inclusive democracy where working people have genuine decision-making power. He critiques symbolic gestures without substantial structural changes, urging a holistic approach to address the intertwined issues of economic and racial justice.

The conversation underscores the inevitable backlash social movements face as a sign of progress. Maurice encourages listeners to engage strategically in activism, whether by joining existing organizations like the Working Families Party or creating new political homes that reflect their values. The episode concludes with a call to action, inspiring listeners to unite in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

]]> A Third Force in Politics: Maurice Mitchell on Creating a Multiracial Working-Class Movement Race Forward 00:28:42 false full 4 2 b8084f8c-4e5d-4c66-b9b8-5500b7cb62a6 The Youth, Art, and Activism: Michelle "Mush" Lee on Cultural Strategy for an Enduring Democracy On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, Hendel Leiva, Manager Of Podcasts and Audio at Race Forward interviews Michelle “Mush” Lee, Executive Director of Youth Speaks, during the 2024 Othering and Belonging Conference. The conversation explores Mush’s takes on cultural strategy, storytelling, and the evolving landscape of activism. She emphasizes the vital role of culture and artists in addressing global challenges and bridging societal divisions.

Reflecting on the political climate conjured from the tensions around the 2016 election, Mush shares her experience about the resilience that many felt they had no choice but to feel during the years of the Trump administration. She talks about being a mother, artist, and cultural strategist;  her unexpected role as a Cultural Affairs Commissioner for the City of Oakland in 2020, and how using her storytelling expertise in various sectors, shaped both her current work and worldview. 

Mush also addresses the sentiments of young people regarding upcoming elections, highlighting a generational shift in engagement with democracy and activism. She underscores the importance of cultural workers in fostering a resilient democracy and discusses how young creatives are innovating cross-sector collaborations. In a poignant moment, she shares her experience performing spoken word in a traditional Korean hanbok, showcasing the significance of merging cultural heritage with contemporary expression, and performs one of her revered works for the podcast.

]]> Fri, 1 Nov 2024 05:30:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/michelle-mush-lee-ZU8V7DBq On this episode of No Matter What Happens: A Race Forward Podcast, Hendel Leiva, Manager Of Podcasts and Audio at Race Forward interviews Michelle “Mush” Lee, Executive Director of Youth Speaks, during the 2024 Othering and Belonging Conference. The conversation explores Mush’s takes on cultural strategy, storytelling, and the evolving landscape of activism. She emphasizes the vital role of culture and artists in addressing global challenges and bridging societal divisions.

Reflecting on the political climate conjured from the tensions around the 2016 election, Mush shares her experience about the resilience that many felt they had no choice but to feel during the years of the Trump administration. She talks about being a mother, artist, and cultural strategist;  her unexpected role as a Cultural Affairs Commissioner for the City of Oakland in 2020, and how using her storytelling expertise in various sectors, shaped both her current work and worldview. 

Mush also addresses the sentiments of young people regarding upcoming elections, highlighting a generational shift in engagement with democracy and activism. She underscores the importance of cultural workers in fostering a resilient democracy and discusses how young creatives are innovating cross-sector collaborations. In a poignant moment, she shares her experience performing spoken word in a traditional Korean hanbok, showcasing the significance of merging cultural heritage with contemporary expression, and performs one of her revered works for the podcast.

]]> The Youth, Art, and Activism: Michelle "Mush" Lee on Cultural Strategy for an Enduring Democracy Race Forward 00:32:47 true full 5 2 0137363c-cce7-4612-a0b0-6bebd4c45946 Book Release Spotlight: Belonging Without Othering with john a. powell and Stephen Menendian On this bonus episode,  Hendel Leiva, Race Forward's Manager of Podcasts and Audio engages in a stimulating discussion with john a. powell and Stephen Menendian, co-authors of "Belonging Without Othering," at the Othering and Belonging conference in Oakland, California. They explore the book’s themes, which address various forms of othering—such as racism, sexism, and xenophobia—and offer pathways to foster a sense of belonging in today’s complex global landscape.

The conversation highlights the dynamic collaboration between john and Stephen, likening their creative process to jazz musicians improvising together, which reflects the book’s evolution over more than five years. They discuss the importance of structuring the book to first address the experiences of “othering”, making it relatable for readers who face these challenges in their daily lives. Stephen points out that the book’s approach to belonging is distinct, steering clear of exclusionary forms tied to nationalism.

As the episode wraps up, john encourages listeners to engage with the book, suggesting group readings to facilitate deeper discussions and understanding. Hendel concludes by thanking john and Stephen for their insights and reminding the audience to read "Belonging Without Othering," inviting them to delve into its profound messages on creating a more inclusive world.

]]> Fri, 1 Nov 2024 05:18:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/bonus-episode-SsWa4ivE On this bonus episode,  Hendel Leiva, Race Forward's Manager of Podcasts and Audio engages in a stimulating discussion with john a. powell and Stephen Menendian, co-authors of "Belonging Without Othering," at the Othering and Belonging conference in Oakland, California. They explore the book’s themes, which address various forms of othering—such as racism, sexism, and xenophobia—and offer pathways to foster a sense of belonging in today’s complex global landscape.

The conversation highlights the dynamic collaboration between john and Stephen, likening their creative process to jazz musicians improvising together, which reflects the book’s evolution over more than five years. They discuss the importance of structuring the book to first address the experiences of “othering”, making it relatable for readers who face these challenges in their daily lives. Stephen points out that the book’s approach to belonging is distinct, steering clear of exclusionary forms tied to nationalism.

As the episode wraps up, john encourages listeners to engage with the book, suggesting group readings to facilitate deeper discussions and understanding. Hendel concludes by thanking john and Stephen for their insights and reminding the audience to read "Belonging Without Othering," inviting them to delve into its profound messages on creating a more inclusive world.

]]> Book Release Spotlight: Belonging Without Othering with john a. powell and Stephen Menendian Race Forward 00:14:07 false bonus 2 6c3966ae-692b-41de-bada-be838a1f6dfa Episode 1: Boldly Moving Immigrant Rights Conversations Forward with Nicole Melaku In this first installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Rights Conference 2021, Nicole Melaku, Executive Director, National Partnership For New Americans tells  Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “Seven years ago, there were a lot of folks who were still squeamish about talking about immigrant integration beyond typical terms of workforce or English. And so here we are seven years later, where we unapologetically address the need to bring about real reform for millions of people across the country.”

Nicole expands on this point as she talks about the exponential growth of the National Immigrant Integration Conference over the last ten years, and shares her thoughts on the importance of boldly “leaning in” to push policymakers to enact urgent reform for immigrant communities nationwide.

 

About, Nicole Melauku: https://bit.ly/3FTcFgj

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis 

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans 

]]> Sat, 22 Jan 2022 03:46:12 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-1-nicole-WtbsYHKb In this first installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Rights Conference 2021, Nicole Melaku, Executive Director, National Partnership For New Americans tells  Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “Seven years ago, there were a lot of folks who were still squeamish about talking about immigrant integration beyond typical terms of workforce or English. And so here we are seven years later, where we unapologetically address the need to bring about real reform for millions of people across the country.”

Nicole expands on this point as she talks about the exponential growth of the National Immigrant Integration Conference over the last ten years, and shares her thoughts on the importance of boldly “leaning in” to push policymakers to enact urgent reform for immigrant communities nationwide.

 

About, Nicole Melauku: https://bit.ly/3FTcFgj

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis 

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans 

]]> Episode 1: Boldly Moving Immigrant Rights Conversations Forward with Nicole Melaku Race Forward 00:06:15 false full 1 1 1993ea24-2af0-4bc7-8fe0-7f270551506b Episode 2: Leaving No One Behind In The Immigration Movement with Angelica Salas In the second installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Angelica Salas, Executive Director at the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights tells  Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “What I notice is that immigration and immigrant rights become the one thing that can be sacrificed at the end of a long battle towards progressive justice. And I'm tired of it because I think that it's so important that we engage in a conversation, and an action, and that we have real results that allow our immigrant families to live whole in this country."

 

Listen in as Angelica passionately talks about her frustrations with the topic of immigration continuously placed at the “bottom of the totem pole” and how “build back better” will mean addressing systemic racism within the United States’ immigration laws. 

 

About, Angelica Salas: https://bit.ly/3tM6nwt

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans 

]]> Sat, 22 Jan 2022 03:30:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-2-angelica-noSAaGIZ In the second installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Angelica Salas, Executive Director at the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights tells  Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “What I notice is that immigration and immigrant rights become the one thing that can be sacrificed at the end of a long battle towards progressive justice. And I'm tired of it because I think that it's so important that we engage in a conversation, and an action, and that we have real results that allow our immigrant families to live whole in this country."

 

Listen in as Angelica passionately talks about her frustrations with the topic of immigration continuously placed at the “bottom of the totem pole” and how “build back better” will mean addressing systemic racism within the United States’ immigration laws. 

 

About, Angelica Salas: https://bit.ly/3tM6nwt

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans 

]]> Episode 2: Leaving No One Behind In The Immigration Movement with Angelica Salas Race Forward 00:08:51 false full 2 1 f78ffd0a-e03c-448f-8808-971fc9f85e74 Episode 3: A Collective Awakening For AAPI Communities with Shiu-Ming Cheer In the third installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Shiu-Ming Cheer (she/her), Deputy Director of Programs & Campaigns at the California Immigrant Policy Center tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “This is the first time at the conference that there has been an AAPI-specific plenary, and I think in large part it was in response to the rise in anti-Asian violence over the last two years during COVID. And so it's interesting that it does take these moments of extremity when issues are highlighted much more in the public sphere and violence against Asians has been on the news pretty regularly for this topic to even seep into the consciousness of more immigrant rights organizations”. 

In this episode, Shiu-Ming expands on her thoughts about how racial justice, white supremacy, and colonization all came together in a firestorm of events in 2021, and how the “extreme violence” has led to a collective awakening within the immigrant rights movement. 

 

About, Shiu-Ming Cheer: https://bit.ly/35emwR8

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis 

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Sat, 22 Jan 2022 03:25:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-3-shiu-meng-c4z0Mf2D In the third installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Shiu-Ming Cheer (she/her), Deputy Director of Programs & Campaigns at the California Immigrant Policy Center tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “This is the first time at the conference that there has been an AAPI-specific plenary, and I think in large part it was in response to the rise in anti-Asian violence over the last two years during COVID. And so it's interesting that it does take these moments of extremity when issues are highlighted much more in the public sphere and violence against Asians has been on the news pretty regularly for this topic to even seep into the consciousness of more immigrant rights organizations”. 

In this episode, Shiu-Ming expands on her thoughts about how racial justice, white supremacy, and colonization all came together in a firestorm of events in 2021, and how the “extreme violence” has led to a collective awakening within the immigrant rights movement. 

 

About, Shiu-Ming Cheer: https://bit.ly/35emwR8

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis 

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Episode 3: A Collective Awakening For AAPI Communities with Shiu-Ming Cheer Race Forward 00:07:49 false full 3 1 03ea8258-cd77-4c30-a68c-b9938696724f Episode 4: Turning Outrage Into Action For AAPI Communities with Jo-Ann Yoo In the fourth installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Jo-Ann Yoo, Executive Director of the Asian American Federation tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva,“ I had to create a lexicon with our communities – that if you say the words enough people start to say it too. We can reset the conversation because we're going to create our own dictionary, we're going to create our own conversation and these are the conversations that we're going to have that centers the experience and the pain that Asian immigrants had to go through.”

Listen in as Jo-Ann talks about the outrage she’s feeling from last year’s anti-Asian attacks and how she’s turned that anger into activism, calling for immediate action, and building solidarity across the coalitions she works with.  

 

About, Jo-Ann Yoo: https://bit.ly/3AssAB8

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis 

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Sat, 22 Jan 2022 03:20:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-4-jo-ann-_yuEaijt In the fourth installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Jo-Ann Yoo, Executive Director of the Asian American Federation tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva,“ I had to create a lexicon with our communities – that if you say the words enough people start to say it too. We can reset the conversation because we're going to create our own dictionary, we're going to create our own conversation and these are the conversations that we're going to have that centers the experience and the pain that Asian immigrants had to go through.”

Listen in as Jo-Ann talks about the outrage she’s feeling from last year’s anti-Asian attacks and how she’s turned that anger into activism, calling for immediate action, and building solidarity across the coalitions she works with.  

 

About, Jo-Ann Yoo: https://bit.ly/3AssAB8

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis 

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Episode 4: Turning Outrage Into Action For AAPI Communities with Jo-Ann Yoo Race Forward 00:10:57 true full 4 1 30c54f35-1d3d-4433-a316-dae75eb8a73b Episode 5: Planning For Long Term Wins Using Narrative Strategy with Jeff Chang In the fifth installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021,  Jeff Chang, Senior Advisor at Race Forward, Butterfly Lab for Immigrant Narrative Strategy tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “It's been really important for a lot of folks, many who are at this conference, to be able to encourage folks to really understand how anti-Blackness works in the context of immigration reform. And so I think the idea of solidarity is something that needs to really be put into practice.” 

 

Jeff also talks about the process of working with the brilliant minds brought together for Race Forward’s Butterfly Lab for Immigrant Narrative Strategy, and how he envisions narrative work leading to impactful long-term wins. 

 

About, Jeff Chang: https://bit.ly/3ArvCpg

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Sat, 22 Jan 2022 03:15:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/ep-7-jeff-QpeTGxrN In the fifth installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021,  Jeff Chang, Senior Advisor at Race Forward, Butterfly Lab for Immigrant Narrative Strategy tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “It's been really important for a lot of folks, many who are at this conference, to be able to encourage folks to really understand how anti-Blackness works in the context of immigration reform. And so I think the idea of solidarity is something that needs to really be put into practice.” 

 

Jeff also talks about the process of working with the brilliant minds brought together for Race Forward’s Butterfly Lab for Immigrant Narrative Strategy, and how he envisions narrative work leading to impactful long-term wins. 

 

About, Jeff Chang: https://bit.ly/3ArvCpg

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Episode 5: Planning For Long Term Wins Using Narrative Strategy with Jeff Chang Race Forward 00:10:51 false full 5 1 743d3654-069d-4f77-9e45-c46e5f51f2a7 Episode 6: The Intersections of Immigration Rights and Racial Justice Work with Jonathan Jayes-Green In the sixth installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Jonathan Jayes-Green (they/them), Vice President of Programs at Marguerite Casey Foundation, tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva,“I know that some folks might not be as happy with us, like the fact that we, as a movement over the years, with the language that we use, through the strategies that we pursued, through the narratives that we've told, have picked winners and losers — have picked the good and the bad immigrants. Have painted a story of undocumented young people as myself as more worthy of protection than my parents and other folks who might not be as young, who might not have the same clean and perfect narrative of who we are.” 

In this episode, Jonathan talks about their lived experience as an organizer at the intersections of immigration and racial justice, and the very real consequences that come from not centering the most marginalized communities in liberation work. 

 

*Recorded after the National Immigrant Integration Conference

 

About, Jonathan Jayes-Green: https://bit.ly/3IrLCu2

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans 

]]> Sat, 22 Jan 2022 03:10:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/ep-5-jonathan-B54v_RUm In the sixth installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Jonathan Jayes-Green (they/them), Vice President of Programs at Marguerite Casey Foundation, tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva,“I know that some folks might not be as happy with us, like the fact that we, as a movement over the years, with the language that we use, through the strategies that we pursued, through the narratives that we've told, have picked winners and losers — have picked the good and the bad immigrants. Have painted a story of undocumented young people as myself as more worthy of protection than my parents and other folks who might not be as young, who might not have the same clean and perfect narrative of who we are.” 

In this episode, Jonathan talks about their lived experience as an organizer at the intersections of immigration and racial justice, and the very real consequences that come from not centering the most marginalized communities in liberation work. 

 

*Recorded after the National Immigrant Integration Conference

 

About, Jonathan Jayes-Green: https://bit.ly/3IrLCu2

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans 

]]> Episode 6: The Intersections of Immigration Rights and Racial Justice Work with Jonathan Jayes-Green Race Forward 00:11:01 false full 6 1 90199f73-6f41-4d6d-99a0-6949bf8bfd3a Episode 7: The Critical Moment To Welcome and Support Afghan Refugees with Bilal Askaryar In the seventh installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Bilal Askaryar, Communications Coordinator, #WelcomeWithDignity Campaign, tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “Afghans are used to being forgotten, used to being the number one story in the news for a week, two weeks, a month, and then not ever being talked about again. And so one thing that we've learned is that when the moment hits, you seize it! We need to make sure that we're building the capacity among our leaders now so that when there is another moment, we are able to get into the right spaces and demand that we're at the table.” 

 

Listen in as Bilial talks about the mental preparation he had to undergo to speak at the National Immigrant Integration Conference about the humanitarian crisis caused by the U.S. military’s sudden withdrawal in August 2020, and the powerful message he was able to give to the audience. 

 

About, Bilal Askarya: https://bit.ly/3KLfrrA

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Sat, 22 Jan 2022 03:05:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/ep-7-bilal-71pqTmq6 In the seventh installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Bilal Askaryar, Communications Coordinator, #WelcomeWithDignity Campaign, tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “Afghans are used to being forgotten, used to being the number one story in the news for a week, two weeks, a month, and then not ever being talked about again. And so one thing that we've learned is that when the moment hits, you seize it! We need to make sure that we're building the capacity among our leaders now so that when there is another moment, we are able to get into the right spaces and demand that we're at the table.” 

 

Listen in as Bilial talks about the mental preparation he had to undergo to speak at the National Immigrant Integration Conference about the humanitarian crisis caused by the U.S. military’s sudden withdrawal in August 2020, and the powerful message he was able to give to the audience. 

 

About, Bilal Askarya: https://bit.ly/3KLfrrA

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Episode 7: The Critical Moment To Welcome and Support Afghan Refugees with Bilal Askaryar Race Forward 00:09:16 false full 7 1 9154db72-04c3-48ee-bb26-f188cc47c5d9 Episode 8: Stand NOW In Solidarity with Haitian Refugees with Guerline Jozef In the final installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Guerline Jozef, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, Inc. (HBA), tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “Speaking as myself, as a person who fought, as a person who knocked on doors and push so that President Biden and his administration can be in power, can be in place, because we had hope that saving the soul of America would include making sure that little girls and boys coming, knocking, asking for protection will be heard and will be given protection. So I am frustrated, I am pissed off and we demand accountability.” 

Listen in as Guerline shares her feelings on witnessing the treatment of Haitian migrants at the U.S./ Mexico border, the hurt and outrage that was felt when the images of Haitian migrants came to light, and how anti-blackness within the immigration system is a root cause that must be addressed. 

 

About, Guerline Jozef: https://bit.ly/3Itw3C9

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Sat, 22 Jan 2022 03:00:00 +0000 hleiva@raceforward.org (Race Forward) https://reflections-a-race-forward-series.simplecast.com/episodes/ep-8-guerline-Tf89DBht In the final installment of Reflections: A Race Forward Podcast, recorded at the National Immigrant Integration Conference 2021, Guerline Jozef, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, Inc. (HBA), tells Race Forward’s Hendel Leiva, “Speaking as myself, as a person who fought, as a person who knocked on doors and push so that President Biden and his administration can be in power, can be in place, because we had hope that saving the soul of America would include making sure that little girls and boys coming, knocking, asking for protection will be heard and will be given protection. So I am frustrated, I am pissed off and we demand accountability.” 

Listen in as Guerline shares her feelings on witnessing the treatment of Haitian migrants at the U.S./ Mexico border, the hurt and outrage that was felt when the images of Haitian migrants came to light, and how anti-blackness within the immigration system is a root cause that must be addressed. 

 

About, Guerline Jozef: https://bit.ly/3Itw3C9

 

Executive Producers: Hendel Leiva & Cheryl Cato Blakemore 

Associate Producer: Kendy Solis

 

Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership For New Americans

]]> Episode 8: Stand NOW In Solidarity with Haitian Refugees with Guerline Jozef Race Forward 00:09:20 false full 8 1