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.

Clint Smith, a poet and author of 'How the Word is Passed,' explores America’s reckoning with slavery, highlighting Juneteenth's complex history. He advocates for inclusive education that confronts painful realities. Rhiannon Giddens, a groundbreaking musical artist and Pulitzer Prize winner, discusses her opera 'Omar,' inspired by the life of enslaved scholar Omar ibn Said. She also shares how the tragic story of Kalief Browder influenced her powerful new song, intertwining themes of resilience and the urgent call for justice in artistic expression.

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.