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The Ask

Latest episodes

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6 snips
Sep 5, 2024 • 24min

Bridging the Gap: Where Policy Meets Possibility

Michael McAfee and Ashleigh Gardere, leaders at PolicyLink, discuss the transformative power of policy in shaping a more equitable future. They emphasize that equity is crucial for a just society and spotlight the challenges in advocating for it. The duo argues for systemic change driven by compassionate action and community engagement. They also highlight the importance of measurable outcomes in housing policy to combat poverty. Their conversation underscores the need for collective action and activism to create meaningful change in today's socio-political landscape.
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Sep 3, 2024 • 20min

Injustice Interrupted

Jasmine Burton, an advocate against systemic inequality, joins Rashad Robinson, President of Color of Change, to tackle how to combat injustice sustainably. They discuss strategies for holding companies accountable and the importance of strategic actions, like the 'No Blood Money' campaign, against white nationalism. The conversation highlights the impact of social media on activism and emphasizes the significance of language in framing racial justice discussions. Together, they inspire collective action towards meaningful systemic change.
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Aug 28, 2024 • 23min

From Pain to Progress: Emmett Till's Legacy and the Road to Justice

Emmett Till’s story is a harrowing part of American history. And although his tragic story shook the nation, his legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the deep injustices that have shaped our past as a society, while also inspiring the ongoing efforts to combat racism and promote equality today. In this episode, Elliot Williams and Jasmine Burton sit down with Chris Benson, President of the Emmett Till Institute, to discuss how we can educate young people on the tragedy of Emmett Till’s murder, his place in U.S. history, and how the lessons learned from his tragedy can prevent instances of injustice in the future.
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Aug 23, 2024 • 40min

Reframing Challenges on DEI as Opportunities Part II: A Conversation with Dr. Sesha Joi Moon about the Role of Government, Narrative Shifts & Building a New Vision

Dr. Sesha Joi Moon, the former Chief Diversity Officer for the U.S. House, joins Whitney Tome to explore the evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). They discuss the recent attacks on DEI as indicators of its significance and the critical role of Black women in advocacy. The conversation emphasizes the power of storytelling in policy-making and the need for authentic engagement in initiatives. They also delve into the importance of civic involvement, generational legacy, and fostering collaboration in a divided political climate.
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Aug 22, 2024 • 28min

The Spectrum of Votes: The Importance of LGBTQ+ Influence in the Electoral Process

These past two election cycles have really put the LGBTQ+ community in the spotlight. And in this episode we're diving into why having LGBTQ individuals in elected positions isn't just important—it's essential. Because let's face it, when it comes to democracy, diversity isn't just a nice-to-have; it's the secret ingredient. Tune in for a conversation about the importance and necessity of centering the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as the critical role that these individuals play in our society with Sean Meloy and Mayor Annise Parker from the Victory Fund, the only national organization devoted to electing pro-equality, pro-choice LGBTQ+ leaders to public office at every level. 
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Aug 22, 2024 • 38min

Reframing Challenges on DEI as Opportunities Part I: Shifting the narrative around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The attacks that seek to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are only demonstrating one thing - we are winning. One of Raben’s Managing Principals, Whitney Tome sits down with Karen Finney - CNN Political Analyst, Political Strategist, and the Co-founder of Rise United - to discuss reframing the narrative on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Given her sophisticated understanding of communications and trends, Karen discusses how a shift to an abundance mindset, leveraging the insights of the youth, and applying constant pressure will continue to transform our society. Join us for a conversation about how to change societal culture to continue to advance equality.
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Aug 21, 2024 • 18min

The Policy of Potential: Enfranchising the Underserved

Enfranchising marginalized communities in a political system that has continually held them back is no small feat and Tides is taking that challenge head on. In this episode, Jasmine Burton sits down with Janiece Evans-Page, CEO of Tides, a leading force in advancing social justice and shifting resources to the communities that need them most. Join us for a conversation where we dive into the vital needs of creating and maintaining an inclusive democracy during this pivotal election cycle, Tides' approach to driving policy and systems change, and how they are working to ensure that the voices of underrepresented communities are amplified and empowered in the political process.
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Aug 21, 2024 • 17min

Day One at the DNC: Democracy’s Opening Act

Day one at the DNC kicked off with exciting energy, surprising moments, and bold speeches that set the stage for what's to come. In this episode, Jeremy Paris, Jasmine Burton, and Elliot Williams break down the highlights, the lowlights, and everything in between—plus, what you need to know to stay ahead of the curve for the next few days of the DNC. Grab your popcorn, because this DNC is shaping up to be one for the history books!
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Jul 19, 2024 • 34min

Convention-al Wisdom

The Republican National Convention just wrapped up in Milwaukee, and our panel of Raben insiders, Jasmine Burton, Elliot Williams, and Jeremy Paris, are here to unpack what they saw. Who was the convention for? How did it land? Who is even going to be running against each other in November? Has Donald Trump finished giving his speech yet? Politics comes at you fast, so take a quick moment to find out where we are and where we go from here with The Ask.
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Jun 25, 2024 • 27min

Tick-Tock, Who's There?

TikTok has been downloaded 4.7 billion times worldwide and over 220 million times in the US alone. But despite its popularity, the US recently enacted a law that gives tik tok 270 days to sell or it will be prohibited in the US. On our most recent episode, Jasmine and Morgan sit down with Elizabeth Booker Houston - a government lawyer by day and massively popular TikTok influencer by night whose videos range from clips of her stand-up comedy routines to interviews with political stars like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. Tune in to hear us discuss the misinformation surrounding the law, whether or not tik tok will actually sell, and the implications if it does.

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