Code Switch

Lynn Washington, an investigative journalist and professor, joins Mike Africa Jr., a legacy director for the MOVE organization, to discuss the shocking 1985 police bombing in Philadelphia. They reflect on the tragic loss of eleven lives, including five children, and how this catastrophe has faded from collective memory. The conversation dives into the ongoing implications of race and policing, the fighting spirit of the MOVE organization, and the importance of acknowledging this forgotten tragedy for justice and healing in today's society.

Marsha P. Johnson was a trailblazer in the fight for gay rights. But Johnson's legacy extends beyond her activism: "Marsha was a really full person who lived a vibrant life. She was a muse and model for Andy Warhol," and a performer in New York City and London. In this episode, we talk to activist and author Tourmaline about what we can all learn from Johnson's legacy in times of adversity.Tourmaline's two books about Marsha P. Johnson — Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson and One Day in June — are out on May 20, 2025.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Viet Thanh Nguyen, a Vietnamese refugee and professor at USC, discusses the complexities of identity as an Asian-American. He reflects on his family's immigration story and the impact of trauma on marginalized communities. Nguyen emphasizes the importance of finding solidarity among diverse experiences of 'otherness' in today's America. He also critiques the romanticized notions of authenticity and confronts uncomfortable truths about American identity, motivating listeners to embrace empathy and resilience in the face of societal challenges.

Christina Kala, a producer at NPR, delves into the critical battle for the Lakota language against the backdrop of political challenges. She discusses the urgency of language preservation as the number of fluent speakers declines. The conversation explores ownership and the rights related to cultural storytelling, as well as the ongoing efforts within the Lakota Nation to revitalize their language. Notably, she highlights legal clashes over language resources and how community-driven initiatives are crucial for empowering future generations.

Sergio Martinez Beltran, an NPR immigration reporter, dives into the impact of the Trump administration's immigration policies on Venezuelan migrants. He shares a poignant story of a family desperately searching for their son after ICE agents’ intervention. The conversation explores how Venezuelans are unfairly depicted as criminals, the harsh realities of detention in El Salvador, and the broader emotional turmoil faced by families navigating the complex U.S. immigration landscape. Sergio highlights the resilience of mothers seeking support amidst these struggles.

Adam Serwer, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his political commentary, teams up with Paul Astadebe, a trial attorney and advocate for federal workers' rights. They delve into Trump’s ban on DEI programs, exploring the confusion surrounding what DEI really entails. The duo discusses the historical implications of this ban on civil rights and the fears of federal employees. They highlight how this political move could undermine decades of progress and emphasize the importance of advocacy in this shifting landscape.

Historian Edna Bonhomme, author of "A History of the World in Six Plagues," dives into the intersections of health and marginalized communities. She discusses the societal myths during the HIV-AIDS epidemic that shaped her childhood. The conversation examines lessons from past epidemics, the role of trust in public health, and critiques of governmental neglect. Bonhomme emphasizes the importance of learning from history to improve health strategies and highlights the need for inclusive healthcare practices for better community support.

Join legal expert Steve Vladek and student journalist Claudia Steinhardt as they dive into the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder and pro-Palestinian activist. They discuss the chilling implications for free speech and the constitutional rights of immigrants. Khalil's case ignites debates on campus activism, legal complexities, and the impact of U.S. immigration policy. Claudia shares her firsthand experiences amid rising tensions at Columbia University, highlighting the emotional toll on students and the ongoing struggle for civil liberties.

To be a Palestinian-American writer right now can lead to a lot of expectation to focus on identity and devastation, but in her debut novel, Too Soon, Betty Shamieh shares the story of three generations of Palestinian women trying to find love, purpose and liberation.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Panama Canal's impact on the geopolitical stage far outreaches its roughly 51-mile stretch of land and water. This week, we're trying to understand the canal's murky future - from climate change to President Trump's threat to take it for the U.S. - by looking at its turbulent, cataclysmic birth.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy