This American Life 857: Museum of Now
Mar 30, 2025
Emmanuel Dzotsi, a producer at This American Life, vividly shares his experiences around the dismantling of the Black Lives Matter mural in D.C. Ranjani Srinivasan, a Columbia graduate student, recounts a harrowing five-day ordeal after her visa was revoked, navigating the complexities of ICE. Laura Starecheski provides a gripping account of a court hearing about the Trump administration’s transgender military ban, highlighting the emotional and legal tensions surrounding identity and justice. Together, they paint a compelling picture of our turbulent times.
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Concrete Souvenir
- Emmanuel Dzotsi acquired a piece of concrete from the demolished Black Lives Matter mural in Washington, D.C.
- He observed people collecting pieces, reflecting on the changing political climate.
Visa Revocation and ICE
- Ranjani Srinivasan, a Columbia University graduate student, received a visa revocation email.
- ICE agents showed up at her door, causing her to go into hiding.
Mahmoud's Detention
- ICE detained another Columbia student, Mahmoud Khalil, despite his green card status.
- Ranjani, fearing a similar fate, considered her social media activity as a possible cause.