EP 98: Nonviolent Communication + Restorative and Transformative Justice (Feat Kadijah Means)

'This Bridge Called My Back' is a groundbreaking anthology of writings by women of color that explores the intersections of race, class, gender, and sexuality. Edited by Cherríe Moraga and Gloria Anzaldúa, the book provides a platform for diverse voices to share their experiences of marginalization and resistance. The essays, poems, and personal narratives in the collection challenge dominant cultural norms and power structures. It addresses issues such as identity, oppression, and the complexities of coalition building. 'This Bridge Called My Back' has become a foundational text in feminist and ethnic studies, inspiring generations of activists and scholars. The anthology emphasizes the importance of solidarity and collective action in the struggle for social justice.

Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a framework created by Marshall Rosenberg that aims to enhance communication by promoting compassion and empathy. The book outlines a four-step process for effective communication: observing what is happening without judgment, identifying and expressing feelings, recognizing and articulating needs, and making clear requests. Rosenberg emphasizes the importance of separating observations from evaluations to avoid defensiveness and promote genuine human connections. The book includes practical exercises, role-plays, and real-life examples to illustrate how NVC can be applied in various relationships and situations, including personal, professional, and conflict resolution contexts. It also discusses how NVC can help in developing self-compassion and resolving conflicts by focusing on the underlying needs rather than the actions that trigger emotions.

In 'Are Prisons Obsolete? ', Angela Y. Davis argues for the abolition of the prison system, examining its evolution from early carceral systems to the modern prison industrial complex. Davis contends that incarceration fails to reform prisoners and instead profits from their exploitation. The book explores historical and contemporary issues, including the disproportionate incarceration of Black and minority communities, the role of slavery in the development of modern prisons, and the specific challenges faced by women in prisons. Davis advocates for a society that addresses social problems through alternatives such as decarceration, education, health care, and a justice system based on reparation and reconciliation rather than retribution and vengeance.