60. Tennessee: Tip of the Spear in the Fight for Democracy
Jul 10, 2024
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In this episode, guests discuss Project 2025, Tennessee's fight for democracy, and challenges faced in the state, including expulsion of black colleagues and anti-CRT legislation. They highlight removing divisive symbols, advocating for school choice, and the significance of 'white lies' in confronting systemic racism. Reflections on resilience, empowerment from backlash, and commitment to fighting for future generations are also explored.
Tennessee leads in fighting for democracy and racial justice.
Project 2025 aims to uphold white supremacy through deceptive narratives.
CRT Summer School empowers multigenerational activism against systemic injustices.
Deep dives
Fifth Annual Critical Race Theory Summer School Overview
Fighting back against attacks on racial justice is the focus at the fifth annual Critical Race Theory Summer School. Hosted by the African American Policy Forum, this year's mix of virtual and in-person sessions in Nashville equips participants with tools to combat efforts threatening democracy, public education, and civil rights gains. Attendees engage in plenaries and workshops, recognizing the interconnectedness of attacks on Black communities. The event caters to parents, educators, and concerned community members.
Tennessee's Role in Resisting Racial Justice
Tennessee stands at the forefront of resistance to racial justice and democracy, exemplified by events like the expulsion of black lawmakers for advocating gun control and anti-Critical Race Theory legislation. Leaders like Senator London decry racial injustices like voter disenfranchisement and prioritize historical activism for civil rights.
Empowering Voices and Activism in Tennessee
Tennessee Representative Justin Jones highlights the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the state, emphasizing the need for collective action and recapturing the spirit of Freedom Summer 1964. The critical race theory summer school fosters community engagement, activism, and education, underscoring the importance of multigenerational involvement.
Challenging White Lies in Tennessee
The podcast illuminates the prevalence of 'white lies' as deceptive narratives upholding white supremacy. Unpacking the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025, the plan aims to reverse progressive gains and entrench white, Christian, heterosexual dominance. Discussion of historical distortions and current policy threats underscores the urgency for holistic understanding and resistance.
Inspired Action at Critical Race Theory Summer School
Critical Race Theory Summer School in 2024 embodies the spirit of Freedom Summer, empowering participants to embrace ongoing civil rights struggles. Presenters from various backgrounds offer insights and workshops preparing attendees to stand against systemic injustices. By evoking historical activism and promoting multigenerational unity, the event shapes a future dedicated to equity and justice.
It’s Freedom Summer 2024! We’re celebrating the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer 1964, and kicking off our annual Critical Race Theory Summer School in the locus for the recent attacks on racial justice and democracy: Nashville, Tennessee.
Host, Kimberlé Crenshaw is joined by CRT Summer School contributors, Tennessee Representative Justin Jones; Superintendent for CRT summer school and celebrated educator, radio host, and film producer—Kaye Wise Whitehead; and Tim Wise, a groundbreaking anti-racist thinker, author and educator who is also a senior fellow with the AAPF. They discuss Project 2025, the attacks on our democracy, and why Tennessee is the tip of the spear in the fight to keep democracy alive.