Code Switch

Michael Vargas Arango was having a fairly typical day — hanging out at his home in Medellín, playing Xbox with one of his friends. Only, when he spoke to his mom during the day, he realized that she had no idea what "friend" he was talking about — she hadn't seen or heard anyone besides her son in the house all day. That was the first inkling either of them had that Michael was dealing with something unusual. It was the beginning of the long road toward Michael being diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. On this episode, we're talking to Michael about how he experiences the world, and how he's helping to educate people about what it really means to live with a rare, stigmatized, and widely misunderstood mental health condition.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In this insightful discussion, the late James Baldwin, a revered writer and social critic, sheds light on his evolving views on Israel and the intersection of identity and oppression. He reflects on the complex histories of marginalized communities, particularly the parallels between African American and Palestinian struggles. Baldwin's transformative experiences in Israel lead to a deeper critique of nationalism and the systemic injustices faced by Arabs. His powerful insights on human connection remind us of our shared traumas and the quest for self-determination.

J.C. Howard, a Black Christian, shares his eye-opening journey navigating predominantly white evangelical churches. He explores the challenges faced by Black Christians in these spaces and contrasts his experiences with those from Black Pentecostal traditions. The conversation touches on themes of acceptance, identity, and the emotional struggles encountered when faith communities preach love yet fail to embrace diversity. J.C. also highlights the profound resilience found in Black spirituality and the historical significance of the Black church in fostering hope.

Reality TV serves as a cultural funhouse mirror, revealing societal norms around race, gender, and sexuality. The discussion highlights representation challenges in shows like The Bachelorette and critiques the industry's casting practices. It also contrasts these with efforts from other dating shows, advocating for more inclusive practices. The emotional impact on participants, especially women of color, is examined alongside the nostalgic appeal of authentic love in media. The exploration of 'Love Island USA' introduces the tension between genuine relationships and competitive strategy.

The contentious history of sex testing in sports reveals the struggles faced by female athletes like Lin Yuting and Iman Khalif. It explores the gender biases embedded in the origins of the Olympics and the complexities surrounding women's participation. Ethical dilemmas arise as athletes navigate biological modifications and identity pressures. Christine Boma's inspiring journey highlights the joy and challenges within the realm of gender classification. The discussion pushes beyond the binary definitions, examining fairness and acceptance in competitive sports.

Shahnaz Habib, a reluctant travel writer, dives into the complex topic of 'passport privilege' influencing travel experiences. She highlights how this privilege can shape perceptions of different cultures and create entitlement. The conversation encourages listeners to rethink their role as tourists and the ethical implications of their travels. Through personal stories, Habib emphasizes the emotional challenges faced by immigrants compared to Western travelers, pushing for a broader recognition of identity and mobility disparities in the tourism landscape.

Explore the underrepresentation of Indigenous literature in education. Discover how recent book bans affect visibility for marginalized authors while critiquing the impact on diverse storytelling. Learn the difference between sacred Indigenous tales and folk tales, emphasizing the need for accurate representation in children's literature. Hear from an Indigenous Hawaiian author about cultural identity and the significance of preserving Hawaiian narratives. Delve into the relationship between literature and identity within Indigenous communities and the responsibilities that come with it.

Former top cop of California and presidential candidate Kamala Harris's career as a prosecutor, her tough on crime tactics, and identity as a black woman with South Asian heritage. Exploring loyalty and identity among multiracial individuals, and challenges of biracial acceptance. Reflecting on Kamala Harris's influence on black women in America and the complexities of identity and community.

Meet Elsie Saldaña, one of the oldest drag kings in the U.S. She shares her inspiring journey from male impersonator to embracing drag king identity. Explore the challenges faced by drag kings in the drag community and the empowering impact of their performances. Learn about the legacy of Sequoia Empire Court in Fresno and the personal experiences of drag kings in navigating joy and struggles in their performances.

A descendant of enslaved ancestors, B.A. Parker, revisits her family's farm in Creswell, North Carolina. She reflects on the emotional impact of acknowledging the history of slavery, honoring ancestral roots, family heritage, and connections. The podcast also follows her road trip to Somerset, exploring shared memories and reflecting on the enslaved ancestors who labored there.