The Daily Show: Ears Edition TDS Time Machine | Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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Jan 19, 2026 Vann R. Newkirk II, a writer for The Atlantic, dives into Martin Luther King Jr.'s complex legacy and argues that his assassination halted a broader revolution for economic justice. He highlights the critical role of women like Coretta Scott King in civil rights activism. Comedian Leslie Jones hits the streets of New York, interviewing people about their understanding of MLK Day, revealing misconceptions and superficial celebrations. The discussion underscores the holiday's significance amidst ongoing threats to its recognition and relevance.
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Street Reactions Reveal Holiday Amnesia
- Leslie Jones interviews New Yorkers who largely don't know how to mark MLK Day and offer superficial celebrations like shopping or seeing shows.
- Jones uses the street reactions to show how the holiday's meaning is often forgotten or reduced to a day off.
Remember The Whole Man, Not The Hallmark
- Dulce Sloan urges remembering the full, unvarnished Martin Luther King Jr. rather than a Hallmark version focused only on inspirational lines.
- She highlights King's opposition to capitalism and the complexity of his personal life as part of his legacy.
Misuses Of MLK's Image Everywhere
- Roy Wood Jr. compiles examples of people misusing MLK's image, from insensitive store sales to party flyers and political co-opting.
- He uses humor to show how commercial and political exploitation distorts King's message and memory.