For the centennial series "100 Years of 100 Things," Jacqueline Lewis, senior minister and public theologian at the Middle Collegiate Church, and author of Fierce Love: A Bold Path to Ferocious Courage and Rule-Breaking Kindness that Can Heal the World (Harmony, 2021), and Jeanne Theoharis, professor of political science at Brooklyn College, and the author of many books on the civil rights and Black Power movements and the contemporary politics of race, reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and legacy, on the day that honors him.  Their conversation was part of the WNYC event, "A Burning House" — MLK and the American Experiment at The Apollo Theater, on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

Three of our favorite segments from the week, in case you missed them.100 Years of 100 Things: Partisanship & Inaugural Addresses (First) | 100 Years of 100 Things: The Great Gatsby (Starts at 42:23) | Dry January Amid a New Cancer Risk Report (Starts at 1:22:50)If you don't subscribe to the Brian Lehrer Show on iTunes, you can do that here. 

Zellnor Myrie, a New York state senator and Codes Committee chair, is campaigning for mayor with a focus on Brooklyn's neighborhoods. He discusses the pressing challenges of affordability and the need for fresh leadership in a competitive primary race. Myrie emphasizes the impact of 2019 rent laws on tenants and property owners, advocating for government intervention in housing. He also addresses the need for universal after-school programs, and touches on corruption in the NYPD, calling for integrity and community engagement to restore public trust.

Elise Hu, a Los Angeles-based journalist and former NPR correspondent, discusses the aftermath of the recent fires in LA and how communities are coming together to support one another. She highlights crucial roles played by organizations like the Red Cross and the rise of mutual aid groups. Elise also warns against charity scams, emphasizing the need for donors to verify organizations before giving. She touches on the complexities of using platforms like GoFundMe for disaster relief and the importance of ensuring proper support for those affected.

Sylvia Varnham O'Regan is a tech reporter for The Information, specializing in social media dynamics. Emily Bazelon, a NY Times Magazine writer and Yale law fellow, provides insight into legal aspects around TikTok. They discuss the Supreme Court's ban and what it means for users and creators. The conversation dives into First Amendment rights versus national security concerns. They also explore emotional impacts on TikTok's community, data privacy issues, and the broader implications for social media regulation.

Jonathan Lemire, co-host of MSNBC's Morning Joe and contributing writer for The Atlantic, dives into the political landscape as Biden exits and Trump prepares for his return. He discusses the implications of the Supreme Court’s TikTok ruling and how it affects young voters. Lemire reflects on Biden's mixed legacy, highlighting his achievements and challenges as he departs. The conversation also touches on Trump's meeting with Mayor Adams, exploring their political dynamics and legal hurdles. The episode offers insightful commentary on the evolving state of American politics.

Listeners dive into the challenges and benefits of participating in Dry January, sharing personal stories and motivations. The discussion is sparked by a new surgeon general's report outlining the health risks associated with alcohol consumption. Callers reflect on how the findings influence their choices and experiences during the month of sobriety. The conversation highlights both the social dynamics and individual journeys of those attempting to abstain from alcohol.

Vivek Murthy, former U.S. Surgeon General, shares insights on the alarming cancer risks associated with even moderate alcohol consumption. He emphasizes the need for clear health warnings on alcohol labels. Murthy also discusses the complexities around alcohol, addiction, and public health, urging informed discourse on topics like cannabis legalization. Furthermore, he highlights the transformative power of arts in combating loneliness among the elderly and advocates for community engagement to tackle mental health challenges in a post-pandemic world.

Timothy Gardner is a climate and energy correspondent at Reuters, while Aysha Bagchi reports for USA Today on the Justice Department. They analyze the Senate confirmation hearings for Chris Wright, a controversial fossil fuel executive, whose views on climate change raised public alarm. They also discuss Pam Bondi's appointment as attorney general, focusing on her past as a prosecutor and concerns about political bias. The tensions surrounding energy policy and judicial independence create a gripping narrative about future legislative directions.

Reuven Blau, a senior reporter for The City known for his investigative work on criminal justice and prison healthcare, sheds light on serious issues within New York State prisons. He discusses the troubling hiring practices that allow doctors with checkered pasts to treat inmates. The conversation reveals alarming instances of medical malpractice and negligence, including personal stories of misdiagnosis. Blau calls for urgent reforms to improve oversight and accountability in prison healthcare, highlighting the dire need for change to protect incarcerated individuals.