Episode 246: The Next Semester
This episode marks the beginning of our next semester, which will run until the Sunday after Election Day in November. L. Joy explains these episodes will be all about power—specifically, the power of your vote, your voice, and your commitment to civic engagement. While others may use fear or shame to get folks to the polls, L. Joy is focused on empowering listeners to be lifelong civic participants. For the first discussion of the semester, L. Joy is bringing activist and Shelby County General Sessions Court Clerk in Tennessee Tami Sawyer, to the front of the class.
Episode 245: The Clean Slate Initiative and the Transformational Power of Second Chances
In a compelling episode of #SundayCivics, L. Joy brings Sheena Meade, CEO of the Clean Slate Initiative, to the front of the class to shed light on the transformative impact of providing second chances through policy reform. This conversation couldn't have been more timely, as the need for systemic change continues to be a pressing issue in our society.
Episode 244: Black Voters Matter in the South
In an enlightening conversation on Sunday Civics, L. Joy brings Cliff Albright, co-founder and Executive Director of Black Voters Matter Fund, to the front of the class to explore the depths of Black civic engagement and the pivotal role it plays in shaping democracy, particularly in the South. Through their spirited dialogue, they delve into the history, challenges, and triumphs of mobilizing Black voters, underscoring the significance of understanding and leveraging political power within Black communities.
Episode 238: The Power of Identity in Democracy
In this episode L. Joy welcomes special guest Kat Calvin back to the front of the class. Kat is the founder and executive director of Spread The Vote + Project ID and the cofounder and CEO of the Project ID Action Fund.
Episode 237: Vengeance Is Not Justice
The death penalty does not deter crime yet 39 states still commit the barbaric practice. Although in recent polls Americans believe the death penalty is applied unfairly, most are still in favor of the practice. To tackle this controversial topic, L. Joy brings Jamila Hodge, the Executive Director of Equal Justice USA, to the front of the class to delve into the social, racial, and economic disparities prevalent in its administration, the historical context, and potential alternative paths to justice.
Episode 236: Who Is Running the Campaigns?
Managers, consultants, vendors, and field teams oh my! Candidates need staff to run their campaign once they’ve decided to vie for office. But, who are these people? How are they chosen? Where do they come from? Do prominent roles go only to folks L. Joy describes as “the khaki boys?” To break down what it takes to produce a political campaign, L. Joy brings Daniel Laurison to the front of the #SundayCivics class.