KQED's Forum

Robin Wright, a journalist and contributing writer for the New Yorker, shares her expertise on Iranian politics and the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran following U.S. military strikes. She discusses how cultural and political dynamics in Iran play a critical role in shaping the conflict's outcome. The conversation explores the complex landscape of U.S.-Iran relations, potential ramifications of the ceasefire, and the interplay of internal dissent and regime stability within Iran. Wright emphasizes the pivotal role of diplomacy in navigating these tensions.

Lauren Markham, a writer and founder of The Approach, joins Soleil Ho, founder of Coyote, Aaron Bady of the Oakland Review of Books, and Justin Gilmore from The Bay Area Current to discuss the booming independent media scene in the Bay Area. They explore the motivations behind launching new publications, focusing on investigative reporting and underrepresented narratives. The conversation also touches on innovative funding models and community engagement, underscoring their commitment to reviving local journalism amidst challenges posed by traditional media.

Amanda Hoover, a senior correspondent at Business Insider, Iowayna Peña, director of workforce development in San Francisco, and Lisa Countryman-Quiroz, CEO of Jewish Vocational Services, discuss Gen Z's shift towards skilled trades. They dive into how rising student debt and the search for job stability are prompting young professionals to pursue practical careers like plumbing and electrical work. The conversation highlights the importance of vocational education, mentorship, and how these career paths challenge traditional stigmas, while emphasizing meaningful work that resonates with this generation's values.

Join Tyche Hendricks, a senior immigration editor, Jean Guerrero, a journalist and author of 'Hatemonger', and Catherine Seitz, legal director at the Immigration Institute of the Bay Area, as they dissect the chilling effects of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. They uncover how aggressive enforcement actions impact Bay Area residents, reveal the emotional toll of deportation rulings, and explore community responses to heightened ICE activity. The conversation sheds light on the challenges faced by diverse immigrant populations amid ongoing political turmoil.

Molly Jong-Fast, author of 'How to Lose Your Mother: A Daughter's Memoir' and Vanity Fair correspondent, opens up about her complex relationship with her iconic mother, Erica Jong. She dives into the emotional turmoil of caregiving amid her mother's dementia, exploring themes of love, regret, and family dynamics. Molly reflects on the struggles of growing up with a famous parent, challenges of addiction, and the burden of legacy. Through heartfelt storytelling, she reveals the intricacies of navigating conflicting emotions and the significance of connection in family life.

Persis Karim, a poet and director of the Center for Iranian Diaspora Studies, joins Arman Mahmoudi, a community organizer; Hasti Jafari, a playwright; and Nahid Siamdoust, a journalist, to discuss the profound impact of the Israel-Iran conflict on the Bay Area's Iranian community. They explore emotional narratives, the complex historical context of U.S. involvement, and the challenges of communication with family in Iran. Insights into navigating identity, activism, and solidarity within the diaspora await listeners in this poignant conversation.

Barbara Demick, former Beijing bureau chief for the Los Angeles Times and author of 'Daughters of the Bamboo Grove,' shares profound insights into the trauma caused by China's one-child policy. She highlights poignant stories, particularly that of Fangfang, a girl taken from her family and adopted in Texas. The conversation reveals the brutal realities of enforced separations, the scars left on families, and the emotional complexities faced by adoptees navigating their identities. Demick also discusses the societal implications of these policies on global adoption practices.

Trita Parsi, co-founder of the Quincy Institute and an expert on U.S.-Iran relations, joins Robin Wright, a contributing writer for The New Yorker and author on Middle Eastern politics. They discuss the escalating Israel-Iran conflict and examine the implications of President Trump's potential military decisions. The conversation dives into the historical context of Israeli aggression and Iran’s nuclear ambitions, while also highlighting the complexities of U.S. involvement and the broader geopolitical landscape.

Marcus Anthony Hunter, a UCLA sociology and African-American studies professor, and Isaac G. Bryan, a California State Assembly member, dive deep into the state's reparations initiative for Black residents. They discuss the legislative progress since a pivotal report, addressing challenges like unjust property seizures. Hunter emphasizes viewing monetary compensation as a rightful claim, while Bryan highlights community mobilization efforts. They navigate the complexities of reparative justice, reflecting on both political hurdles and the broader implications for equity in California.

Join Suzanne Goldberg, a professor and legal expert on gender rights, Caro De Robertis, author of a significant oral history of the trans community, and activist Donna Personna, as they delve into the impact of a recent Supreme Court ruling on gender-affirming care for minors. They share powerful narratives from the Bay Area's trans history, highlighting resilience and community support. Discover the transformative influence of music and storytelling in the queer experience, while learning about the ongoing fight for rights and acceptance.