Clint Smith III

Clint Smith, a talented poet and author of *How the Word is Passed*, dives deep into the intersections of history and personal identity. He wrestles with the legacy of figures like Thomas Jefferson, advocating for honest narratives about America's past. Clint emphasizes the need to celebrate joyful moments in Black history, encouraging a broader perspective beyond suffering. He intertwines poetry and personal anecdotes to explore growth, creativity, and the vital role of empathy in understanding our complex histories.

Annie Polland, a historian and president of the Tenement Museum, teams up with Clint Smith, a poet and staff writer at The Atlantic, to discuss innovative ways teachers can effectively share Black and immigrant histories. They delve into the challenges educators face while navigating America’s complex past, emphasizing the importance of personal narratives in understanding social issues. Polland and Smith also highlight the museum's immersive storytelling methods, connecting individual stories to broader historical contexts and promoting dialog about racism and social justice.

Clint Smith, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of 'How the Word is Passed,' joins Key Jo Lee, chief of curatorial affairs at the Museum of the African Diaspora. They dive into the political battle over American history narratives amid efforts to erase uncomfortable truths. Smith discusses the implications of whitewashing history and the importance of confronting racial injustices. Lee highlights the critical role of museums in preserving marginalized stories and the ongoing challenges they face due to funding cuts and ideological pressures.

Guest Clint Smith, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author focused on American history, teams up with Laura Jadid, a journalist covering conservative movements. They delve into the alarming rise of book bans in the U.S., discussing how these measures attempt to erase critical conversations about race and sexuality. Smith argues that banning books to avoid discomfort can hinder understanding. They also reflect on the importance of inclusive literature and its implications for historical education and community identity.

In this discussion, Clint Smith III, a Staff writer at The Atlantic and author of "How the Word Is Passed," unpacks the legacy of slavery through his research. He dives into the significance of historical sites, reflecting on their roles in shaping public memory. Smith also critiques the complexities in America’s narratives involving figures like Thomas Jefferson. He shares personal insights from parenthood, exploring how it reshapes understanding of historical injustices. Lastly, he highlights the vital contributions of Black voices in education and journalism.