To The Best Of Our Knowledge How Should We Tell Our History?
Jun 21, 2025
Ramtin Arablouei and Rund Abdelfatah, co-hosts of NPR's ThruLine, team up with New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie and artist Charmaine Minniefield. They dive into the contentious debates surrounding critical race theory and how history is told in America. Bouie speaks on dismantling 'civic myths', while Minniefield shares insights on Praise Houses as vital symbols of Black history. The discussion highlights the importance of diverse perspectives and the need for nuanced narratives to understand the complexities of America’s past.
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Immigrant Upbringing Shapes History Views
- Rund Abdelfatah and Ramtin Arablouei grew up in immigrant households hearing stories from Palestine and Iran.
- Their upbringing gave them a dual perspective on history, identity, and connection between past and present.
Middle Eastern Historical Consciousness
- Ramtin recalls a cab ride conversation about how Westerners never remember and Easterners never forget history.
- Middle Easterners share pride in a glorious past but feel bitterness about present realities, shaping their historical narrative.
History Narratives Serve Unity
- Every country’s historical narrative is created partly to unify and form shared identity.
- These narratives often omit uncomfortable truths or divisive parts to maintain cohesion.