Laura Flanders and Friends: Solutions-Focused Progressive Perspectives on Politics, News, and Culture

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!In this episode of the Laura Flanders Show, we explore both the struggles and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month 2023 by diving into the right-wing extremist backlash permeating the inclusive, family-friendly activity known as Drag Story Hour. We explore what LGBTQ activists are doing about it, and what the media is getting wrong (and right) in its portrayal of this conflict. Through the context of the historical brutality at New York's Stonewall Inn in 1969, as well as the modern legal challenges and reactionary legislations threatening queer self-expression — this episode highlights the various adversities faced by the community and what activists, allies and the media can do about it. Our guest, Naomi Dix, a drag artist from North Carolina, shares the shocking harassment her show faced in Moore County, which ultimately took place in the dark after a sabotage attack on an energy substation — an attack that left 45,000 households and businesses in the dark for five days in December 2022. In spite of such trials, the resilience and courage within the LGBTQ+ community and the role of allies in promoting diversity, acceptance, and empathy are on display through initiatives like Drag Story Hour. The media also plays a role in this conflict. Mainstream media often sensationalizes coverage of LGBTQ+ issues — but the movement calls for more nuanced, community-centric narratives. When looking at LGBTQIA+ issues through the historical lens of the gay rights movement, trans rights protests, and US Pride protests, the need for visibility, acceptance, and a balanced portrayal of the community's struggles and triumphs has never been clearer. Join us for this enlightening episode as we celebrate Pride Month 2023, reflecting on LGBT history, the gay and trans rights movement, and the ongoing fight for equality.“We never thought in a million years, especially drag artists of my generation, that we would have to be facing the same things and issues that our parents were telling us that they were having to face in the 50s and the 60s and the 70s and the 80s.” - Naomi Dix“What we're seeing is an overlapping of the identities that our communities represent, and the approach to how we combat these forces. It's really powerful when we can say the counter protestors outnumber those who don't want us here.” - Mitra Kalita“I think that Drag Story Hour as a whole gives us a great look and a microcosm of drag trans and queer worlds, because it represents how they're being attacked in terms of losing rights to exist safely, and the Proud Boys, specifically digging their heels into inflammatory, destructive and untruthful accusations against these communities.” - Sam ZacharGuests:Naomi Dix: Drag Artist, Activist & Member of Durham NC BIPOC Operated House of Coxx; Co-Chair, Pride: Durham, NCS. Mitra Kalita: Co-Founder, URL MediaSam Zachar: Reporter, Podcast Producer, Epicenter-NYC  Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.Music In the Middle:   “Knockin’” by Nickodemus and Bad Colours featuring The Illustrious Blacks from Nickodemus’ Soul and Science Album, courtesy of Wonderwheel Recordings. 🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS? Patreon subscribers get early access to our full, uncut conversations and audio extras! Join our growing family today! patreon.com/thelfshow📩 SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter: lauraflanders.orgFOLLOW The Laura Flanders ShowTwitter: twitter.com/thelfshow Facebook: facebook.com/theLFshow Instagram: instagram.com/thelfshow/YouTube:  youtube.com/@thelfshow ACCESSIBILITY - This episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!Within the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and feminist activism, Holly Hughes and Esther Newton are pioneers — breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the fields of art, anthropology, activism, and LGBTQ+ representation. The work of Hughes and Newton have shaped our understanding of gender, identity, and community. Join us as we explore their significant contributions to LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, and human rights, delving into the power of queer kinship in overcoming anti-LGBTQ and anti-feminist ideologies. Holly Hughes, a writer and performer, made a lasting impact through her involvement in the renowned WOW Cafe in New York City. In the face of backlash and anti-LGBTQ sentiments during the 1990s, Hughes' art stood as a testament to the importance of queer rights and self-expression. Esther Newton, a pioneering anthropologist, is known for her groundbreaking 1972 book, "Mother Camp," the first major anthropological study of what would now perhaps be called an LGBT community in the U.S. Her perspective as a lesbian feminist challenged conventional notions of gender, fostering greater understanding and acceptance. Newton's work remains relevant in today's discussions on LGBTQ+ rights, LGBTQ+ rights in the Supreme Court, and ongoing LGBTQ+ issues. Their individual achievements have contributed to the advancement of LGBT rights, trans rights, and feminist causes. Their inspiring stories transcend boundaries, inspiring marginalized individuals to embrace their identities and advocate for inclusivity and acceptance. What can they teach us today, in the face of anti-LGBTQ bills, anti-gay laws and extremism? In this episode we discuss gender, identity, and Hughes and Newton’s commitment to intersectional feminism, queer kinship, and community-building to provide inspiration for fostering supportive networks and dismantling societal barriers. In celebration of Pride Month 2023, we honor the contributions of Holly Hughes and Esther Newton within the LGBTQ+ community, feminism, and the fight for a more just and inclusive society. Their conversation reminds us that the journey towards equality and acceptance is ongoing. Join us as we delve into their remarkable stories and explore the power of queer kinship in challenging anti-LGBTQ and anti-feminist beliefs. “I am very concerned and disheartened [by] the attacks on trans people. It's disheartening to see some of it coming from feminists. I think a lot of the people who are described as TERFs are not really Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists because they're not feminists. They're just exclusionary.” - Holly Hughes “Traditionally primary ties were supposed to be ‘blood family.’ Gay people have built structures outside of that, which I think is partly what's so appealing to young people. We must maintain those structures.” - Esther Newton GUESTS: • Holly Hughes, Performer & Writer; Professor, University of Michigan • Esther Newton, Professor of Anthropology, Founder & Leading Scholar LGBTQ Studies; Author, Mother Camp: Female Impersonators in America & My Butch Career: A Memoir Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.Music In the Middle:   “Mirage” by WhatItDo Archive Group from their album ‘Palace of a Thousand Sounds’ released on Record Kicks. 🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS? Patreon subscribers get early access to our full, uncut conversations and audio extras! Join our growing family today! patreon.com/thelfshow 📩 SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter: lauraflanders.orgFOLLOW The Laura Flanders Show Twitter: twitter.com/thelfshow Facebook: facebook.com/theLFshow Instagram: instagram.com/thelfshow/YouTube:  youtube.com/@thelfshow ACCESSIBILITY - This episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel   Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!In this episode, we dissect the harmful reality of America's ballooning drug prices—especially the life-and-death issue of insulin affordability—and share new legislation out of California. This is Big Pharma, explained. Today's three integral guests (listed below) join the Laura Flanders Show to discuss the pharmaceutical industry and how to end Big Pharma companies' monopoly. The current model of the pharmaceutical industry, in which profit-driven Big Pharma companies decide who manufactures treatments, where, & at what cost, is a threat to public health. Public pharmaceutical manufacturing could limit the enormous power of these Big Pharma companies and potentially spark a public health revolution. New legislation in California is a shift in the usual dealings of Big Pharma business. This state's groundbreaking move to produce insulin will eradicate the astronomical profit margins that private companies currently enjoy. This change has the potential to bring about significant economic and social benefits, enabling a larger demographic to engage in the workforce and community. And as you'll hear in the conversation, this discussion is not limited to the Democratic Party nor Republican Party — it's bipartisan. Access and equity in healthcare starts with systemic changes in pharmaceutical production and distribution. Here's what's happening in the US & globally.“This has economic & social benefits for all of us...Having the public sector take a bigger role in the production of distribution of medicine historically starts to shift the balance of power.” -Dana Brown “Our current model for vaccine research development & distribution globally is colonial in many ways, because big pharmaceutical companies have the ability to decide who gets vaccines, treatments, insulin & other pharmaceutical products, & when & at which prices.” -Luis Gil Abinader “10% of the population has a chronic illness, & [pharmaceutical companies] are exploiting & extorting our need for this drug. It's coming to an end because people like me & rising up & talking about it & sharing our stories.” -Kevin Wren GUESTS: •  Dana Brown: Director, Health & Economy, The Democracy Collaborative •  Luis Gil Abinader: Legal Scholar; Fellow, Georgetown University Law O'Neill Institute; Board Member, Universities Allied for Essential Medicines (UAEM) •  Kevin Wren: Queer Activist & Patient Advocate Chapter Leader, California #insulin4all; T1International; Queer Activist & Patient Advocate, MA Evans School of Public Policy & Governance, University of Washington Music In the Middle:   “Class War” by Grammy Award winners Zion Train from their latest album Dissident Sound released on Universal Egg.Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.📩 SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter: lauraflanders.org🎧 LOOKING FOR UNCUT INTERVIEWS? Patreon subscribers get early access to our full, uncut conversations and audio extras! Join our growing family today! patreon.com/thelfshow FOLLOW The Laura Flanders Show Twitter: twitter.com/thelfshow;  Facebook: facebook.com/theLFshow;  Instagram: instagram.com/thelfshow/ ACCESSIBILITY This episode is closed captioned at our YouTube channel Here    Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!We thought that last year would go down in history, but this year is even worse for the number of anti-trans bills introduced into state legislatures, and the successful passage of many of those bills. 549 proposed bills, banning books, medical treatment, even access to the bathroom were introduced in 2023. 73 of those anti-trans bills have already passed and the ACLU’s weekly tracker can barely keep score. As extremists crank up the volume on hate — trans people, especially trans women of color, are facing an onslaught of violence. As today’s guest points out, the people driving the anti-trans movement are the same as those leading the anti-abortion movement. Imara Jones is featured in this year’s “Time’s 100 Most Influential People” for her work to combat disinformation against trans people. She’s the producer of a podcast mini-series called “The Anti-Trans Hate Machine: A Plot Against Equality”. The final three episodes of the podcast will release this June and July. Jones is also the creator of “TransLash Media”, a cross-platform journalism, personal storytelling, and narrative project, which seeks to shift the culture, create empathy and save trans lives. In this episode, Laura asks her what impacts these restrictions and increased control have on all of us.“We're already seeing doctors that treat trans people being targeted just like abortion doctors. That's a new thing that just happened this year.” - Imara Jones“There's an understanding by the people, the politicians, the organizations, and the billionaires that trans people will be the next fight in the gender wars, after what they anticipate, and have anticipated for over a year, to be their victory on abortion rights.” - Imara JonesGuest:  Imara Jones: Founder and CEO, TransLash Media Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.Music In the Middle:   “Making Sense Stop” by Charlotte Adigéry and Bolis Pupul from their new super synth-sonic album Tropical Dancer courtesy of Soulwax’s DeeWee Records.  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

It's our May membership drive when we move the mic to you!  By becoming a member your voice of support amplifies our coverage of forward thinking movement movers and shakers.     Go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!What is causing the Black maternal mortality epidemic, and what can be done to save Black lives? The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate of any high-income nation in the world — and it is Black mothers who are dying at the highest rates. Black birthing people are three times more likely to die in childbirth, but about 84% of those deaths are preventable. For this episode of Meet the BIPOC Press with our partner URL Media, a network of Black and Brown owned and operated news outlets, Laura Flanders is joined again by co-host Sara Lomax of Philadelphia’s WURD Radio. They invite Marianne Fray, the CEO of Maternity Care Coalition and Kenya Hunter, the Atlanta Health Reporter for Capital B News, to discuss how Black women and birthing people are taking control of their pregnancies. Explore the community-centered responses that may lead to better pregnancy outcomes and a more equitable healthcare system.“We all came into this world through some person and it is a miraculous thing. If we could spend a little time reflecting on that, and then set up ourselves or whomever chooses to have children with the best possible outcome.” - Marianne Fray“There was a researcher from the University of Colorado, Boulder, who predicted a 21% jump in pregnancy-related deaths in the country if Roe v Wade was overturned. But that number then jumps to 33% when you're talking about Black women.” - Kenya Hunter“. . . Birth was a business practice in many ways. Children were ripped from us. Black women were experimented on by the ‘father of gynecology,’ Marion Sims in the 1840s . . .  I do think Black women are carrying a lot of historical trauma related to birthing and childbearing.”Guests:Marianne Fray: CEO, Maternity Care CoalitionKenya Hunter: Atlanta Health Reporter, Capital B NewsSara Lomax: Co-Founder, URL Media; President & CEO, WURD RadioFull Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.Music In the Middle:   “Time Shlime” by Rithma courtesy of Om Records.  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

It takes a village to move the microphone to stories that have real impact!  Premium content awaits you!  The latest is my full conversation with Angela M. Thorpe, Executive Director of the Pauli Murray Center.  Thorpe was featured in our special field report, 'Deciding the Fate of Democracy in North Carolina.'  Pauli Murray was a gender non-conforming, legal scholar and civil rights movement leader.  Her legal work was ahead of its time then and more relevant than ever today.  We know you will be just as inspired as we are here at The Laura Flanders Show!  Our goal is to raise $20K for our Flanders Field Reporting Fund!Here's the article I wrote for The Nation in conjunction to our latest special report from North Carolina on extreme racial Gerrymandering and Moore vs. Harper.  It’s a case on the US Supreme Court docket that could give state lawmakers unchecked power over how elections are held — including who gets to vote.Become a monthly supporter and you’ll receive my entire interview, along with all of our premium content from each week's episode.  Please go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate and become a monthly supporting member.  Thank you! Our field reporting is made possible  by you!  We do not take any corporate underwriting or government funding.  We depend on you!    Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This episode offers insight into the conditions at Rikers and the movement to close it. The unauthorized NY Prison Guard Wildcat Strike is currently in its second week as of February 26, 2025.The notorious Rikers, a 10-jail complex situated on an island in the East River of New York City, has become a national symbol and a symptom of our current approach to crime. The jail has over 6,000 inmates — the majority of whom are awaiting trial because they can’t afford bail — living in unconstitutionally inhumane conditions, a federal court once ruled. In October 2019, the New York City Council passed, and then Mayor Bill de Blasio signed into law, a plan to permanently close Rikers and replace the jails with four borough facilities by August 2027. But the proposed closure has hit roadblocks — from the left, from the right, from the prison guards union and from concerned residents who live near where new jails would be built. Although many support the Rikers closure, there is little agreement as to how and when — or what should replace it. Why is it so difficult to make changes to our challenged carceral system? Joining Laura to discuss the local and national implications of this story are Journalist Nick Pinto, co-founder of Hell Gate, a worker-owned news outlet covering New York City, and New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, who helped pass the law to close the jail. Elected Public Advocate last fall, he is now the prime sponsor of legislation that would ban solitary confinement in city jails.“. . . The education that's necessary to bring the voting public along with this sort of change is difficult. It's especially difficult in the face of a concerted fear mongering campaign.” - Nick Pinto“This is the first time I've seen a population of folks in the city and the state who are ready to receive a conversation that's holistic around public safety. And we're squandering it.” - Public Advocate Jumaane WilliamsGuests:Nick Pinto: NYC Journalist & Co-Founder, Hell GateJumaane D. Williams: New York City Public Advocate Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.Music In the Middle:   “Front Line” featuring Puma Ptah by Eric Hilton, from the Farewell to Midnight EP released on Eighteenth Street Lounge Records.  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

It's our May membership drive when we move the mic to you!  By becoming a member your voice of support amplifies our coverage of forward thinking movement movers and shakers.     Go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!This Mother’s Day, May 14th coincides with the formal end of the National Covid-19 Emergency. Since its enactment in March 2020, emergency spending expanded healthcare coverage to some 15 million people who will now be disenrolled, and increased food stamp benefits, and post-partum coverage in many states. Poor parents will be taking a hit — but Guaranteed Income could be the solution. The Magnolia Mothers Trust in Jackson, Mississippi is the first in the country to provide Guaranteed Income of $1000 monthly to low-income families headed by a Black woman living in affordable housing. Joining Laura for this Mother’s Day special are Aisha Nyandoro who leads this program as the CEO of Springboard Opportunities, a nonprofit organization working with residents in affordable housing to help them reach their goals; Anquoindria Moore, a mother of three was a recipient of this cash relief from Magnolia Mothers and Dorian Warren, the Co-President of Community Change, that  focuses on building the power of people most impacted by injustice. How does cash relief reduce poverty, and increase equity and security for families? All that, and a commentary from Laura on renewing, and renaming, the tax credit program.“Clearly it is not only about the cash. I had the opportunity to meet some very wonderful people. I was also able to socialize with different women who were also in the same shoes as me or similar . . . The women there are not getting involved and then leaving you stranded.” - Anquoindria Moore“When people have a little more breathing room, when they don't have to count every penny to pay bills . . . they actually have more time to get involved in our democracy and their communities and school board elections and town hall meetings . . . That is important for the promise of multiracial democracy in this country.” - Aisha Nyandoro“We know that if we trust women in particular and give them agency, they will always do the right thing for their kids . . . What we're up against is basically ideologues and zombie ideas who are ignoring the evidence and the stories about the participants in these kinds of programs.” - Dorian WarrenGuests:Anquoindria Moore: Recipient, Magnolia Mothers TrustDr. Aisha Nyandoro: CEO, Springboard To OpportunitiesDorian Warren: Co-President, Community Change Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.Music In the Middle:   “Don’t Know What Tomorrow Brings” by Secret Night Gang from their forth coming album “Belongs on a Place Called Earth," courtesy of Brownswood Recordings.  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

"It has often been said that the US South is the testing ground for American democracy, which makes it frustrating how little attention national Democrats and their media pals give to Southern politics.  A case in point is the decision by the North Carolina Supreme Court on April 28th, to reverse a series of election-related rulings that were handed down just months ago by the same court when it was dominated by Democrats."  -excerpt from the latest commentary by Laura Flanders...The F-Word is released bi-weekly featuring timely commentaries by Laura Flanders and guests.You can hear that special report in our series on The War on Democracy by subscribing to this podcast feed or watch the show:Deciding the Fate of Democracy in North Carolina  Watch / Listen, Download and Subscribe to the PodcastAnd take a listen/watch our prior special reports in the series:• The Forgotten Coup, January 6th & the Small Town Americans on the Frontlines of Democracy Watch / Download Podcast• Community Safety in a Time of Insurrection Watch / Download Podcast• North Carolina: Courageous Conversations in a Climate of Fear Watch / Download Podcast  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!North Carolina has long been a battleground for democracy. So far, 27 people in the state have been indicted in connection with the effort to overturn the 2020 election on January 6th. No body of legislators has fought more fiercely to maintain Republican supermajority power in a demographically 50/50 state. On April 28, 2023, in a rare reversal of recent precedent, the new Republican majority on the North Carolina Supreme Court struck down a previous ruling that threw out gerrymandered voting maps. And in this term, the Supreme Court will decide on Moore v Harper, a case that could give state lawmakers unchecked power over how elections are held — and even who gets to vote. In this episode, Laura Flanders sits down with the NC Attorney General Josh Stein and Hilary Harris Klein, lead attorney on the North Carolina case along with veteran civil rights attorney and law professor, Irving L. Joyner to discuss what these cases mean for democracy and voters of color. What does a better vision of democracy look like? Durham is home to the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice, named after the human rights activist whose work was integral to the Civil Rights Movement. Murray's legacy lives on today, inspiring organizers who are determined to "bring the promise of democracy to life," as Angela M. Thorpe, the center’s Executive Director, puts it. Serena Sebring, the Executive Director of Blueprint NC, shares what’s needed to build Murray’s vision of a multiracial democracy. What’s at stake? And who’s pushing back? “North Carolinians do not want this gerrymandering . . . What the legislatures are trying to do here is not the people’s business. It is their own political entrenchment.” - Hilary Harris Klein“You had 30 African Americans in the North Carolina General Assembly and all of that came crashing down in 2010 with the election of Republicans . . . Their first order of business was to attack the success that we had had in building up African American political power.” - Irving L. Joyner“It's not just Raleigh, it's not just Charlotte. It's not even just Durham that matters, but it is Columbus County, it is Pasquotank Country. It is all of the people of North Carolina who must be welcomed into a democracy, if it is to be what it says it is.” - Serena Sebring“This legislature has been elected time and time again under unconstitutional maps . . . It’s not a surprise they have these powers, because that’s what they’ve done, is manipulate [voting maps] to their advantage.” - Josh Stein“I think Pauli Murray would be incredibly concerned with the way legislatures and states across the US are working to strip people, particularly Black people, of their voting rights.” - Angela M. Thorpe Guests:Hilary Harris Klein: Senior Counsel of Voting Rights, Southern Coalition for Social JusticeIrving L. Joyner: Professor of Law, North Carolina Central University School of LawSerena Sebring: Executive Director, Blueprint NCJosh Stein: Attorney General, North CarolinaAngela M. Thorpe: Executive Director, Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.Music In the Middle:   "Wings" by Terry Callier courtesy of Mr. Bongo Records.  Additional music,  'Steppin' & 'Electric Car' by Podington Bear.  "Unsilenced" by Ketsa.  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer;  Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky:  https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon:   https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel