Code Switch

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.

B.A. Parker, descendant of enslaved ancestors, explores honoring heritage. Chapters delve into cemetery preservation, family reunions at plantations, and immersive experiences. Emphasizes passing down knowledge and connecting with ancestral roots.

Delving into the impact of historical events on Asian-American families, the podcast highlights Carol Kwong Park's experience during the LA uprising. It explores family resilience, language preservation, and the immigrant experience, shedding light on racism, personal relationships, and societal issues.

Author Mike Curato, who wrote 'Flamer' to help young queer kids, discusses the book's impact and controversy amid book bans in Texas. The podcast explores the complexities of banned books, challenges faced by authors, and the value of challenging literature for teenagers.

Discover the untold stories of Black individuals who received '40 acres and a mule' after the Civil War, only to have it taken away. Explore the legacy of land ownership, the struggles faced by descendants, and the ongoing debate on reparations for slavery.

Historian Jules Gill-Peterson discusses the history of trans misogyny, linking it to colonialism, segregation, and class interests. Topics include the evolution of Black trans women representation, challenges with the term 'trans' globally, historical perceptions of gender-variant groups, and combating transphobia. The episode highlights the life of Mary Jones, a black trans woman in the 1830s, and emphasizes the importance of radical interdependency to combat discrimination.

Exploring the impact of labeling individuals as 'felons', from personal experiences to societal perceptions. Discussing disparities in how the term affects ordinary people versus high-profile figures like Donald Trump. Delving into the dehumanizing effects and ethical considerations of using the label. Reflecting on the need for a more empathetic understanding beyond past mistakes.

Exploring the racist roots of US immigration policies, the podcast delves into the impact on immigrants in Florida, the disconnect between policies and human realities, and the historical context of states challenging federal actions. It sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced at the border and the political dynamics shaping the discourse around immigration.