99% Invisible Constitution Breakdown #1: Nikole Hannah-Jones
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Jul 25, 2025 
Nikole Hannah-Jones, an investigative reporter and creator of the 1619 Project, joins the hosts to discuss the significance of the U.S. Constitution's preamble. They dive into the historical exclusions embedded in 'We the People,' particularly regarding Black individuals. The conversation highlights the fragility of democracy, the impact of political erosion, and the challenges of maintaining trust in governance. They also touch on the complexities of the Posse Comitatus Act and recent military deployments in Los Angeles, reflecting on their implications for civil liberties.
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Expanding 'We the People'
- The phrase "We the People" originally excluded many groups, especially Black Americans.
- Today, it's expanded to include diverse populations, showing the Constitution's ambiguous inclusiveness.
Douglass's Reinterpretation of Constitution
- Frederick Douglass evolved his view of the Constitution from pro-slavery to a liberty document.
- This shift exemplifies how oppressed groups reinterpret founding documents to claim rights.
Dred Scott's Legacy of Racism
- The Dred Scott decision legally excluded Black Americans from citizenship using the Constitution's text.
- This ruling embedded enduring systemic racism in law and society.
