Brittany Packnett Cunningham, an activist and educator, joins sports journalist Cari Champion and Errin Haines, founder of The 19th, to discuss their collective vision for change as 'The Machetes.' They explore Kamala Harris’ impact on diversity in politics and the importance of unity within the Democratic party. The conversation ignites excitement around civic engagement and the power of grassroots movements. They also reflect on the historical contributions of Black women and how to dream bigger for the future.
The discussion highlights the critical role of voting as a means for marginalized communities to assert their rights and influence politics.
Emphasizing the importance of collective imagination, the speakers encourage dreaming bigger for social change and unity in pursuing freedom.
Deep dives
Addressing Economic Challenges
The focus on tackling high costs of living highlights the need for practical solutions to economic issues such as rent, groceries, and utilities. Proposals include increasing housing supply by constructing more homes and taking action against landlords who overcharge. Additionally, the initiative aims to combat price gouging in grocery stores to make food more affordable for families. This approach emphasizes the goal of allowing workers to retain more of their hard-earned income.
Empowering Voter Engagement
The significance of voting is underscored as a vital means for individuals to assert their rights and influence the political landscape, particularly for communities facing existential threats to their voting rights. Encouraging authentic conversations about the electoral process and acknowledging individuals' concerns fosters a deeper understanding of their voting power. It's vital to move beyond merely urging people to vote, as this may lead to resentment and disengagement. Instead, empowering communities to recognize their own agency and the importance of their participation in shaping the future is essential.
The Role of Collective Imagination
The discussion emphasizes the importance of expanding collective imagination and dreaming bigger for social change. Engaging in reflective practices can help individuals consider the possibilities for their future and that of their communities. By recognizing the progress made and the role of ancestors' dreams in current achievements, there's a call to build on this legacy. The idea that freedom must be pursued together reminds everyone of the power found in unity and collective action towards a shared vision.
Activist, educator and writer Brittany Packnett Cunningham, sports journalist Cari Champion, and The 19th founder Errin Haines join hosts Angela Rye and Tiffany Cross during a special live broadcast on day two of the 2024 Democratic National Convention last August. Together, this powerful group of women, all close friends, have dubbed themselves The Machetes.
They talk about the power of Kamala Harris’ appointment and the diversity and unity they’re witnessing in the Democratic party. Now that we’re here, what next? How do we ignite our imaginations and dream bigger?
You'll also hear briefly from the founder of Black Voters Matter, Latosha Brown.
Listen to the full broadcasts from the DNC and all of the Native Land Pod episodes on the podcast feed (wherever you get your podcasts) or watch them on the Native Land Pod YouTube page.
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