Melissa Gira Grant

Discussions on libraries as political spaces, resistance against right-wing attacks, importance of public institutions for marginalized communities, grassroots activism in libraries, collective action against injustices like the Palestine genocide, challenges librarians face in political activism, societal issues explored through historical events and title choices, and empowering community engagement in library governance.

Melissa Gira Grant, staff writer at The New Republic, dives into the troubling implications of a federal judge's ruling against Trump’s immigration policies. She discusses the probable cause for criminal contempt over deporting Venezuelans to El Salvador, backed by a shocking case involving a senator’s visit. Poll analysis reveals Trump’s precarious standing on immigration, hinting at a potential political fiasco. Grant also critiques the Trump administration's 'deportation TV' tactics and the resulting backlash in immigrant communities.

In this engaging discussion, Melissa Gira Grant, a staff writer at The New Republic and expert on Trump's immigration spectacle, dives into the legal chaos surrounding Trump’s deportations. A federal judge has flagged potential contempt charges over the removal of Venezuelans, signaling a brewing crisis. Grant elaborates on a senator's investigative hurdles in El Salvador and how recent polling indicates Trump may be misjudging public support for his immigration policies, setting the stage for significant backlash against his administration.

Melissa Gira Grant joins to discuss J.D. Vance's 'childless cat lady' remark, prompting Pete Buttigieg's sharp response. They delve into gender views, nationalism, family ideologies, and Kamala Harris's focus on reproductive freedom.

Authors Andrea Ritchie, Mariame Kaba, and Melissa Gira Grant discuss the connection between social work, policing, and sex work. They explore the history of social work's association with policing and challenge the politics of deservingness within the field. The podcast also dives into the flaws of the current therapy system and emphasizes the importance of community healing and support.