Laura Flanders and Friends: Historic Perspectives with Forward-Thinking Changemakers From the World's of Politics, Arts, & Activism

Explore the history and impact of Illinois' decision to end cash bail statewide in 2023, featuring insights from key advocates and policymakers involved in this monumental change.This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!Description: What happened when Illinois ended cash bail? As Laura’s guests explain, this deeply discriminatory and unjust system puts “a ransom on people’s heads,” disproportionately impacts Black and Brown people, and favors the wealthy who can buy their freedom while leaving the poor to languish in jail. Bail reform has faced tremendous pushback over the years, but Illinois implemented the first-of-its-kind Pretrial Fairness Act, ending cash bail statewide in 2023. The historic win didn’t happen overnight. In this episode some of those most involved explain what it took and describe the surprising results. Sharone R. Mitchell Jr., the Cook County Chief Public Defender was the lead policy expert for the Coalition to End Money Bond. Mitchell also heads the state’s largest public defender office. State Senator Robert Peters represents Illinois’ 13th District and was one of the main sponsors of the Pretrial Fairness Act. He chairs the Senate Labor Committee. Bryce Covert followed this important and under-covered story for The Nation magazine. What has Illinois to teach the nation? All that plus Laura’s commentary: Illinois has moved out of the Middle Ages. What’s holding the rest of the nation back?Guests:• Bryce Covert: Contributor, The Nation• Sharone R. Mitchell Jr.: Chief Public Defender Cook County, Illinois• Robert Peters: Illinois State Senator, 13th District Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channelSubscribe to episode notes via Patreon Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:•  Corporate Prison Reform Will Not Keep Us Safe: A Report from Los Angeles: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode• Crime & Migration: An Abolitionist Plan for Immigration Justice: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode• D.A. Larry Krasner Facing Impeachment: Criminal Justice Reform in the Crosshairs: Watch / Listen: Podcast EpisodeRelated Articles and Resources:• Illinois Has Put an End to the Injustice of Cash Bail, by Bryce Covert, December 2, 2024, The Nation• U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Releases Report:  The Civil Rights Implications of Cash Bail, by U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, January 20, 2022, USCCR.org• Cash bail disproportionately impacts communities of color.  Illinois is the first state to abolish it. By Claire Savage and Corey Williams, September 12, 2023, AP News  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Reflecting on the Occupy movement's 13th anniversary: A deep dive into its impact on democracy, economic inequality, and the ongoing fight against the wealth gap.  (episode originally released September 11, 2024)This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!Description: Were you one of the hundreds of thousands of people on the streets during the Occupy movement? For many the movement was a political awakening, as people rallied to end economic inequality and support democracy in response to the 2008 global financial crisis. On this 13th anniversary, how does the spirit of Occupy live on? And what progress — if any — has been made when it comes to the wealth gap? Joining us for that conversation is Marisa Holmes, author of the recently released book “Organizing Occupy Wall Street: This Is Just Practice” and director of “All Day All Week: An Occupy Wall Street Story” which looks at the takeover of Zuccotti Park in New York City in September 2011. Also joining us is Taifa Smith Butler, President of Demos, a public policy organization working to build a multiracial democracy and economy. Previously she was a leader at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. Award-winning journalist Amir Khafagy returns to co-host this episode. Our guests explore the links between economic inequality and authoritarianism and ask how far we've come as a nation to create structural, policy and practice-based changes on the economic front. How can we create a people-led economy that will lead to collective power? All that, plus a commentary from Laura.“During Occupy, we really rejected representative politics because it seemed not responsive to people's needs . . . So we just thought, ‘We're going to do this ourselves’. We have to build alternatives ourselves from the bottom up through mutual aid networks . . . That's what I think is going to transform the economy . . .” - Marisa Holmes“Demos has always talked about the inextricable links of economic power and political power. As I think about where we are historically with the retraction of resources, with the threat of authoritarianism and fascism and this demographic shift that is happening in our nation and the inequality that continues to proliferate, if we do nothing, we'll be looking at apartheid in America.” - Taifa Smith ButlerGuests:• Taifa Smith Butler: President, Dēmos• Marisa Holmes: Author, Organizing Occupy Wall Street• Amir Khafagy: Journalist, Report for America Member, Documented Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channelSubscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle:  “Walk-in’” by The Pimps of Joytime featuring Roy Ayers from the Occupy This Album compilation.  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• “Trust-Busting 2024 with Stacy Mitchell & Matt Stoller: A Bipartisan Battle Against Monopoly Power” Watch / Listen or Download Podcast• Debt, Democracy & Disarray: Astra Taylor on “The Age of Insecurity”. Watch / Listen or Download Podcast• Catastrophic Capitalism: Marjorie Kelly & Edgar Villanueva on “Wealth Supremacy”  Watch / Listen or Download PodcastRelated Articles and Resources:• Overview of Demos’ Economic Democracy Project & Case Studies, Read /Download Here• All Day All Week- An Occupy Wall Street Story made with the Occupy Wall Street Media Working Group, Watch Here• Rewind:  As Obama's re-inauguration approaches, Americans celebrate other key anniversaries. But the promised land remains elusive, by Laura Flanders, The Guardian, Read Here    Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Dive into compelling stories of triumph, art, and activism as key voices reflect on changing Mississippi's state flag history. (episode originally aired June 5, 2024)This show is made possible by you!  Our year end goal is to raise $50,000, and we are half way there. To become a member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!Description: In a time of division, how do we create a sense of collective freedom? It’s a question that peace activist, artist and poet Genesis Be grapples with in all her work. Genesis Be has a new book out, People Not Things: Love Poems & Paintings for Humanity, and recently curated the Freedom Rising art show in Brooklyn, New York featuring work by incarcerated artists currently held by the Georgia Department of Corrections. She is the subject of the upcoming film “Mississippi Turning” about the successful years-long effort to remove the Confederate symbol from the state’s flag. In this episode taped at the CUNY studios in NYC, we turn to a poet and a preacher. Genesis Be joins Laura Flanders and co-host Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis, the Senior Minister for Public Theology and Transformation at Middle Church, to discuss how to reject stigmas and advance liberation. Genesis Be painted in the studio — for her and us it was a first.“I did my protest about the confederate flag that went viral, I hung a noose around my neck and draped myself in a confederate flag . . . It was a very scary time for me because I got thrown into the fight to change the Mississippi State flag. There were a lot of death threats, but a lot of support during that time.” - Genesis Be“The word freedom is hijacked often by folks: freedom from having to change, freedom from having to admit the humanity of others, freedom from having to widen the tent, freedom from having to let go of their sense of exceptionalism . . . This [conference] was a gathering of like-minded folks sharing a dream of all of us belonging and all of us saving this democracy, interfaith, intergenerational.” - Rev. Dr. Jacqui LewisGuests:• Genesis Be: Poet, Peace Activist, Artist; Author, People Not Things: Love Poems & Paintings for Humanity• Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis (Co-host): Senior Minister of Public Theology & Transformation, Middle Church, NYC.  Author of several books including her latest Fierce Love: A Bold Path to Ferocious Courage and Rule-Breaking Kindness That Can Heal the World Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country  Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle:  “Blind Lady Say (Be Love)” by Genesis Be, courtesy of the artist.    And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:•. Prison Creative Arts Project: Imagination in the Face of Incarceration. Watch / Listen-Download Podcast and Full Conversation• How Radical Self-Love Can Heal the World. Watch / Listen-Download Podcast• Ask Angola Prison: What Difference Can a Play Make?  Watch / Listen-Download Podcast and Full ConversationRelated Articles and Resources:•. Documentary (released Fall 2024) “Mississippi Turning” Artist & activist Genesis Be, after her controversial protest against Mississippi's Confederate Heritage Month, heads down to her home state of Mississippi to have an honest discussion with people on both sides of the debate, including her childhood friend, a proud descendant of Confederate soldiers. Watch the Trailer•. “People Not Things” by Genesis Be, recordings of her poetry via Bandcamp•. Middle Church Freedom Rising Conference Learn More Here•. People Not Things Exhibit. Learn More Here   Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Meet the New Leaders of California's 12th District:** Newly elected Democrat Lateefah Simon joins veteran Congresswoman Barbara Lee in a powerful conversation about minority representation and the fight for reproductive rights, housing, and immigration reform—how will they inspire change in a Republican-controlled Congress?This show is made possible by you!  Our year end goal is to raise $50,000, and we are half way there. To become a member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!Description: If anyone can inspire the public about the role of the minority in Congress, the women of California’s 12th district can. In this charming conversation, newly-elected Democrat, Lateefah Simon, joins the indomitable veteran Barbara Lee, whose congressional seat Simon will be taking when the new Congress convenes. Republicans will control the House and Senate, the White House, and dominate the Supreme Court, but Simon says she’s fired up to “fight for what we’ve fought for” in the areas of reproductive rights, low and middle-income housing, public safety, immigration and more. And that’s no wonder. Simon’s following Lee — whose historic 26-year career in the legislature included often being in the minority, and once standing alone against granting the president unlimited war powers after 9/11. Like Lee, Simon began her activism as a single mother at Mills College, and that’s not all they have in common. Lee says Simon’s already made her proud. This episode will delight everyone interested in the role of African American women in politics, or how legacies are built and power is passed on. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on how not to stay tired.“Being a Black woman in America really gives us the experience and the lens to not be daunted with being a minority. We've been a minority in this country forever . . . I don't buy this fear. I don't buy into the fact that a lot of people talk about they're exhausted Black women. We always keep going and Lateefah keeps going. “ - Barbara Lee“We know what racism looks like. We know what the threats of deportation looks like. We have been here before, but I am so honored to be able to take on again, the ongoing journey that was led by Shirley Chisholm, Kamala D. Harris, and my mentor, professor and friend Barbara Lee. We are weary, clearly, but we're not weak.” - Lateefah SimonGuests:• Barbara Lee, Congresswoman, California 12th District• Lateefah Simon, Congresswoman-Elect, California 12th District Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via PatreonMusic In the Middle:  "Be Love" by Alexis P. Suter Band, the title track from their album released on HipBone Records..  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• Transportation is a Human Right. Watch /  Download Podcast• To Save The Progressives: U.S. Reps Pramila Jayapal, Mark Pocan, Barbara Lee, Yvette Clark. WatchRelated Articles and Resources:• Lateefah Simon, on Track to Be a New house Dem: “I’ve Never Shied Away From Any Fight”, by Samantha Michaels, November 6, 2024, Mother Jones•  Shirley Chisolm’s Legacy Still Looms Large, Time Magazine•  ‘The point is to be there for the fight’:  incoming congresswoman arrives in D.C., Erika Ryan, Ari Shapiro, Patrick Jarenwattananon, November 25, 2024, NPR   Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Here at Laura Flanders & Friends, we offer a comprehensive fellowship program in collaboration with the City University of New York (CUNY) John Jay School of Criminal Justice. Participants work hands-on, gaining knowledge about our independent movement media operation producing our TV, radio and podcast productions. Throughout the program our entire staff spends time with each fellow, sharing expertise and knowledge from editing to scripting to promotions and technical skills. We mentor our fellows and guide them in producing their own media pieces. You are about to hear one of those stories produced by our Justice Capital Initiative fellow Erika Harley, a college sophomore pursuing a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. Description:  Many first-generation Latino students face unique challenges as they navigate the path from college to career readiness. ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals for America) is a transformative organization providing mentorship, professional development, and a sense of belonging through its ALPFAmilia network. In this audio report, John Jay Justice Capital Initiative fellow Erika Harley explores how ALPFA empowers students to overcome barriers, featuring interviews with John Jay Chapter President Nayeli Zempoaltecatl and the New York Director of Student Affairs Kevin Durjpal. Together, they share how ALPFA bridges the gap for underrepresented groups, fosters equity, and transforms lives."Everybody a part of ALPFA is automatically a part of an ALPFAMILIA because this network, why it was created, was to help, at first, Latinos. Now it has branched out, of course. But we understand one another. We know the struggles we're facing." – Nayeli Zempoatecatl “A lot of students, they want to join in first to get an internship. But then when you join in, you realize you make a lot of good friends. You may look at family. That's the reason why you want to stay. I know that's the reason why I stayed.” – Kevin DurjpalGuests:Kevin Durjpal: ALPFA NY Director of Student Affairs Committee; Strategy & Consulting Analyst, AccentureNayeli Zempoaltecatl: President, ALPFA John Jay ChapterMusic Included:  "Tweet Storm" & " Electric Car" by Podington BearAt The Laura Flanders Show, we’re dedicated to providing a platform for diverse voices in the field of social justice. This report, a collaboration between The Laura Flanders Show fellowship program and CUNY John Jay College, reflects our commitment. The opinions presented are solely those of the guest contributor and do not necessarily reflect or represent The Laura Flanders Show’s views or those of CUNY John Jay College.  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Description: If anyone can inspire the public about the role of the minority in Congress, the women of California’s 12th district can. In this charming conversation, newly-elected Democrat, Lateefah Simon, joins the indomitable veteran Barbara Lee, whose congressional seat Simon will be taking when the new Congress convenes. Republicans will control the House and Senate, the White House, and dominate the Supreme Court, but Simon says she’s fired up to “fight for what we’ve fought for” in the areas of reproductive rights, low and middle-income housing, public safety, immigration and more. And that’s no wonder. Simon’s following Lee — whose historic 26-year career in the legislature included often being in the minority, and once standing alone against granting the president unlimited war powers after 9/11. Like Lee, Simon began her activism as a single mother at Mills College, and that’s not all they have in common. Lee says Simon’s already made her proud. This episode will delight everyone interested in the role of African American women in politics, or how legacies are built and power is passed on. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on how not to stay tired.“Being a Black woman in America really gives us the experience and the lens to not be daunted with being a minority. We've been a minority in this country forever . . . I don't buy this fear. I don't buy into the fact that a lot of people talk about they're exhausted Black women. We always keep going and Lateefah keeps going. “ - Barbara Lee“We know what racism looks like. We know what the threats of deportation looks like. We have been here before, but I am so honored to be able to take on again, the ongoing journey that was led by Shirley Chisholm, Kamala D. Harris, and my mentor, professor and friend Barbara Lee. We are weary, clearly, but we're not weak.” - Lateefah SimonGuests:• Barbara Lee, Congresswoman, California 12th District• Lateefah Simon, Congresswoman-Elect, California 12th District RESOURCES:Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• Transportation is a Human Right. Watch /  Download Podcast• To Save The Progressives: U.S. Reps Pramila Jayapal, Mark Pocan, Barbara Lee, Yvette Clark. WatchRelated Articles and Resources:• Lateefah Simon, on Track to Be a New house Dem: “I’ve Never Shied Away From Any Fight”, by Samantha Michaels, November 6, 2024, Mother Jones•  Shirley Chisolm’s Legacy Still Looms Large, Time Magazine•  ‘The point is to be there for the fight’:  incoming congresswoman arrives in D.C., Erika Ryan, Ari Shapiro, Patrick Jarenwattananon, November 25, 2024, NPR Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Become a supporting member at https://LauraFlanders.org/Donate  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Join Maysoon Zayid as she discusses humor, disability rights, and the resilience of Palestinian identity during a conversation filled with heart and laughter amid conflict.This show is made possible by you!  Our year end goal is to raise $50,000, and we are half way there. To become a member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!Description: Israel’s US-backed war on Gaza has been a mass disabling event. Today’s guest says we must create a “viable, accessible future” for the disabled Palestinians we have failed. Maysoon Zayid is a comedian, Princeton Fellow, and unapologetic voice for both disability rights and Palestinian identity. A fierce advocate with cerebral palsy, Zaid proves that the most powerful messages often come from unexpected places and are filled with laughter. She’s lost tens of thousands of dollars of contracts for her views, she says, but that hasn’t stopped her “making funny during a genocide” on social media all year. And she’s shown her followers her home village in Palestine — the best place on earth, she says, despite the onslaught of oppression and violence that her people have endured. Maysoon co-founded the New York Arab American Comedy Festival and the Muslim Funny Fest. Her viral Ted Talk, “I Got 99 Problems...Palsy is Just One,” has been translated into 42 languages, and was one of the most popular talks of 2014. She’s the author of “Shiny Misfits”, the new graphic novel that tells the story of Bay Ann, a disabled girl and her cat friend that rock star Dave Matthews narrates for the audiobook. In this conversation filled with heart and humor, hear how comedy shines a light on injustice and serves as a voice of resistance. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on human shields.“As a disabled kid, I liked Palestine a lot more than Jersey . . . I was the only visibly disabled kid in my school growing up. But in Palestine there were other disabled kids and disability wasn't shunned. It wasn't mocked, it wasn't bullied. I grew up in a society that very much believed that disability was a natural part of life . . .” - Maysoon Zayid“I've always used comedy to humanize and educate on disability. And this is the moment because the future of Palestine is disabled and between life and death, there's disability. I don't think it's better to be dead than to be disabled. I want us to create a viable, accessible future for this cohort of human beings that we have failed in the present.” - Maysoon ZayidGuest:  Maysoon Zayid: Comedian & Disability Advocate; Author, Shiny MisfitsWatch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country  Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle:  "Purpose Love" by Jhelisa, released on Dorado Records.  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• “The Future is Disabled”: Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha. Watch / Download Podcast and Full Conversation•  Anita Cameron & Keith Jones on The Americans with Disabilities Act: A Civil Rights Milestone With Miles To Go. Watch•  Amanda Seales Takes the Heat: Speaking Out About Gaza & Hollywood. Watch / Download Podcast and Full ConversationRelated Articles and Resources:• “Shiny Misfits” Maysoon’s graphic novel and audio version  available from Audible featuring the voice of Dave Matthews, and others.• Maysoon Zayid’s Ted Talk• DISCO, a live interactive panel show hosted by Maysoon Zayid coming up February, 2015 at Joe’s Pub in New York City.  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Description: Israel’s US-backed war on Gaza has been a mass disabling event. Today’s guest says we must create a “viable, accessible future” for the disabled Palestinians we have failed. Maysoon Zayid is a comedian, Princeton Fellow, and unapologetic voice for both disability rights and Palestinian identity. A fierce advocate with cerebral palsy, Zaid proves that the most powerful messages often come from unexpected places and are filled with laughter. She’s lost tens of thousands of dollars of contracts for her views, she says, but that hasn’t stopped her “making funny during a genocide” on social media all year. And she’s shown her followers her home village in Palestine — the best place on earth, she says, despite the onslaught of oppression and violence that her people have endured. Maysoon co-founded the New York Arab American Comedy Festival and the Muslim Funny Fest. Her viral Ted Talk, “I Got 99 Problems...Palsy is Just One,” has been translated into 42 languages, and was one of the most popular talks of 2014. She’s the author of “Shiny Misfits”, the new graphic novel that tells the story of Bay Ann, a disabled girl and her cat friend that rock star Dave Matthews narrates for the audiobook. In this conversation filled with heart and humor, hear how comedy shines a light on injustice and serves as a voice of resistance. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on human shields.“As a disabled kid, I liked Palestine a lot more than Jersey . . . I was the only visibly disabled kid in my school growing up. But in Palestine there were other disabled kids and disability wasn't shunned. It wasn't mocked, it wasn't bullied. I grew up in a society that very much believed that disability was a natural part of life . . .” - Maysoon Zayid“I've always used comedy to humanize and educate on disability. And this is the moment because the future of Palestine is disabled and between life and death, there's disability. I don't think it's better to be dead than to be disabled. I want us to create a viable, accessible future for this cohort of human beings that we have failed in the present.” - Maysoon ZayidGuest:  Maysoon Zayid: Comedian & Disability Advocate; Author, Shiny Misfits RESOURCES:Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• “The Future is Disabled”: Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha. Watch / Download Podcast and Full Conversation•  Anita Cameron & Keith Jones on The Americans with Disabilities Act: A Civil Rights Milestone With Miles To Go. Watch•  Amanda Seales Takes the Heat: Speaking Out About Gaza & Hollywood. Watch / Download Podcast and Full ConversationRelated Articles and Resources:• “Shiny Misfits” Maysoon’s graphic novel and audio version  available from Audible featuring the voice of Dave Matthews, and others.• Maysoon Zayid’s Ted Talk• DISCO, a live interactive panel show hosted by Maysoon Zayid coming up February, 2015 at Joe’s Pub in New York City. Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Discover how Amanda Seales combines comedy and activism to address social justice challenges in Hollywood.This show is made possible thanks our members! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Our year end goal is to raise $50,000. Thank you for your continued support!  Description:  What does it take to be politically outspoken in Hollywood? You may know Amanda Seales from her role on HBO’s “Insecure”, her stand-up comedy, her podcast and radio show or her viral videos on social media. She’s lost agents, her publicist, and has had speaking gigs retracted for her commitment to social justice. From Black women to Palestinians in Gaza, Seales uses her platform to speak honestly about harm done to others. She talks powerfully about her experiences with the dangers of fame and celebrity in Hollywood, neurodivergence, white supremacy and a whole lot more. In this conversation, Laura Flanders asks Amanda Seales about our progress as a country, what it means to be an “artistic intellectual” and about the educators who’ve helped her along the way. Hear why Seales is “divesting from celebrity” and taking backlash from her support for Palestinians as “a badge of honor”. Plus, go behind the scenes with Seales with the full, uncut conversation from this week’s show. Laura will tell you more.“. . . You are definitely expected to just take whatever gossip is said about you. You have to take it all on the chin because you've made this somehow unspoken exchange that having monetary gain and visibility means that you have to allow harm. And what I've decided is I am divesting from celebrity.” - Amanda Seales“I lost my agents, I lost my publicist, and I have definitely had speaking engagements and different gigs retracted because of my support of Palestine and my outward support of the ending of apartheid in Palestine. I got to tell you, I take it as a badge of honor. I do. It's good trouble, rest in peace to John Lewis. I am so honored for all those people.” - Amanda SealesGuests:  Amanda Seales, Artistic Intellectual Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via PatreonMusic In the Middle:  “Hope” by Shaun Escoffery from his forth coming expanded digital album release of In The Red Room coming out on Dome Records.  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear. RESOURCES:Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:•. Angela Davis: A Revolutionary Roadmap for Building a Better Future, Subscribe: YouTube to Watch and Listen on Major Podcast Platforms, Listen to the full conversation•. Abbott Elementary Teaches Us All: Sheryl Lee Ralph & Joyce Abbott, Subscribe: YouTube to Watch and Listen on Major Podcast Platforms, Listen to the Full Conversation•. Sarah Jones on Sex & Making an “Unorthodoc,” Subscribe: YouTube to Watch and Listen on Major Podcast Platforms, Listen to the Full ConversationRelated Articles and Resources:• Op-Ed:  The Tragedy of Tyre Nichols and the State of Policing in America, by Amanda Seales, Ebony, Read Here• Amanda Seales:  What would the ancestors say?? A one woman show, a return to artivism.  Watch / Learn More•  Small Doses with Amanda Seales Podcast  Listen Here  Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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

Amid chaos following Hurricane Helene, hear how BIPOC journalists redefine community engagement by addressing urgent needs in western North Carolina.This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support!Description:  Some residents had no food, electricity, or cell service after Hurricane Helene ravaged the western part of North Carolina in October. Amidst misinformation and no information, local media had to step in to inform desperate people fast. This month on “Meet the BIPOC Press”, we explore what media outlets did to serve their people in that moment. Laura and co-host Amir Khafagy, a journalist with the New York City-based publication Documented, speak with two local BIPOC media projects that saved lives and expanded their relationship with their communities. Our guests are Brooklyn Brown, Reporter for Cherokee One Feather, the local newspaper of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians; and Magaly Urdiales, co-founder of JMPRO Community Media (“Justice Media Project”), a grassroots nonprofit that shares essential news and information with immigrant communities in Spanish, English and Mayan Indigenous languages. As they found themselves at the frontlines of relief efforts, how did these local outlets redefine journalism?“. . . Objectivity doesn't have to be cold. Reporting the facts doesn't have to be without passion. That's something I see a lot in community journalism, is that we are able to practice good journalism while also having a heart for the community that we're covering.” - Brooklyn Brown“I think many barriers and many problems of the corporate media came in place. We were called for people that were looking for a story, that were looking for somebody that was crying because their loved one wasn't found yet. And for us it was frustrated . . . in a moment like this, that can be transactional.” - Magaly UrdialesGuests:• Brooklyn Brown (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians): Reporter, Cherokee One Feather• Magaly Urdiales: Co-founder, JMPRO Community Media• Amir Khafagy (Co-host): Journalist, Report for America Member, DocumentedWatch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via PatreonMusic In the Middle:  Novalima remix of “La Voz” by Eljuri, courtesy of the artist.  And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes:• Where Do We Go From Here? Frontline Activists Talk Election ‘24 Takeaways, Watch / Podcast:  Abridged or Full Conversation• Climate Change Journalism: Moving Frontline Communities from the Sideline to the Center, Watch / Podcast• BIPOC Press for the People: Bursting the Corporate Media Bubble, Watch / Podcast:  Abridged or Full ConversationRelated Articles and Resources:•  “Joey in chaos,” The giving heart of the Ice Cream Social, by Brooklyn Brown, October 15, 2024, Cherokee One Feather• JM Pro Community Media Podcast, Listen• Helene Response and Recovery, updates posted daily - Ashville, NC This show is made possible thanks our members! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Our year end goal is to raise $50,000.  Everyone who donates $25 or greater on Giving Tuesday, December 3rd, will receive a complimentary one year subscription to The Nation, both print and digital. Thank you for your continued support!     Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner.  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