Asha Ransby-Sporn

Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, an African American Studies professor and author, joins Asha Ransby-Sporn, a Chicago-based organizer and columnist, to discuss the implications of the 2020 protests following George Floyd's death. They analyze the shift from mass mobilization to political stagnation, emphasizing the need for sustained activism and accountability within Black movements. The conversation explores the evolution of Black Lives Matter, the influence of philanthropy on activism, and the challenges posed by partisan politics, calling for a more integrated approach to social and economic justice.

In this lively discussion, guests Alex Hahn, Asha Ransby-Sporn, and Alderwoman Jeanette Taylor dive into Chicago's left political scene. Hahn sheds light on Mayor Johnson's tumultuous journey and the fierce labor movements behind his election. Ransby-Sporn critiques the challenges faced by grassroots organizers, while Taylor emphasizes the need for community unity against powerful opposition. They also explore educational reform, housing struggles, and the complexities of political identity in a city grappling with systemic issues. Together, they unravel the ongoing quest for genuine change.

Asha Ransby-Sporn, a prominent Chicago organizer and writer; Jeanette Taylor, a dedicated Alderwoman and education activist; and Alex Han, executive director of In These Times, dive into Chicago's left political landscape. They discuss the implications of Mayor Brandon Johnson's election, the struggles against systemic pressures, and the tensions within political coalitions. The trio also explores the urgent need for community engagement in education, affordable housing initiatives, and the challenges faced during recent political efforts, revealing a complex web of activism and governance in the city.