In this episode, Dr. Charles B.W. Prince discusses his journey in education, leadership philosophy, and the transformation of higher education. He emphasizes the importance of education as a gateway to prosperity and the need for institutions to adapt to changing societal needs. Dr. Prince also addresses the impact of book bans on education and the necessity of remaining vigilant in protecting democracy. He shares his hope for a harmonious future in America and the role of education in achieving that vision.

Key Conversation Takeaways:

• Education is the gateway to prosperity.
• Transformation in higher education requires looking and thinking differently.
• Leadership involves questioning what we know and being open to guidance.
• Not everyone can be a leader, and that's okay.
• Book bans can impact access to knowledge and understanding of history.
• Communities may build alternative educational systems in response to book bans.
• Lifelong learning is essential in today's rapidly changing world.
• AI is revolutionizing how we teach and learn.
• Education should be inclusive and accessible to all.
• Hope for America lies in recognizing the value of diverse contributions to society.

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In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Ayaan Moledina, a passionate young activist from Texas. Ayaan shares his journey into activism, focusing on public health, education, and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of community in advocacy and discusses the challenges facing public education in Texas, including the impact of privatization and the dismantling of the Department of Education. Ayaan also highlights the need for better mental health support in schools and encourages young people to get involved in activism. The conversation touches on identity, leadership, and Ayaan's aspirations for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• Ayaan Moledina is a passionate young activist from Texas.
• Community support is crucial in advocacy work.
• Public education in Texas faces significant challenges.
• Privatization of education is detrimental to public schools.
• The Department of Education plays a vital role in civil rights protections.
• Legal advocacy is essential for addressing injustices.
• Mental health support in schools is critically lacking.
• Young people can make a difference through activism.
• Identity shapes Ayaan's approach to leadership.
• Self-care is important for activists. 

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In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Karen Swaboda welcomes Addison K. Witt, the newly appointed poet laureate. They discuss the significance of poetry in today's political climate, particularly in resisting authoritarianism. Addison shares his journey from social media to poetry, including a powerful reading of his poem 'Thumbs Up at Arlington,' which critiques political insensitivity towards military sacrifice. The conversation also highlights the importance of community engagement, the role of artists in democracy, and Addison's vision for future podcast guests.

Key Takeaways:

• Addison Witt emphasizes the importance of posting content on social media.
• His poem 'Thumbs Up at Arlington' was inspired by a political event.
• Poetry can serve as a form of resistance and uplift communities.
• The role of poets and artists is crucial in communicating democratic values.
• Addison aims to amplify diverse voices through his role as poet laureate.
• Community support is essential for artists and activists alike.
• Resistance can take many forms, and everyone has a role to play.
• The podcast will feature a range of guests, including poets and filmmakers.
• Addison is excited about upcoming speaking engagements and community events.
• The importance of hope and connection in challenging times is highlighted.

Resources from the Conversation:

https://www.bannedtogetherdoc.com/

https://www.siraddisonwitt.com

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In this episode Karen speaks with Richard Blanco, the fifth presidential inaugural poet in U.S. history. They discuss the role of poetry in society, the importance of cultural identity, and the impact of censorship on public education. Blanco shares insights from his experiences as a poet and educator, emphasizing the need for community empowerment and activism in the face of current challenges. The conversation concludes with reflections on hope and the resilience of democracy.

Conversation Highlights:

• Poetry can galvanize people together and provoke thought.
• Art, including poetry, bears witness to real stories and experiences.
• In times of crisis, poetry can offer hope and beauty.
• Education should provide historical context to empower students.
• Censorship in education disempowers future generations.
• Community engagement is crucial for activism and empowerment.
• Every generation faces its own challenges and must step up.
• Literature can help students understand their identity and history.
• Public humanities are essential for making art accessible to all.
• Optimism can stem from personal and collective histories of resilience.

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In this episode Karen interviews Jen Wiggin, the producer of the documentary film 'Banned Together.' The conversation explores the origins of the film, which was inspired by a local news article about book banning in South Carolina. Jen discusses the activism of high school students who fought against censorship and the importance of understanding First Amendment rights. The film highlights the chilling effects of book bans and the role of community involvement in advocacy. The discussion also touches on the definition of pornography in literature, the recognition the film has received at various festivals, and the empowerment of young adults in advocacy efforts.

Conversation Highlights:

• The film 'Banned Together' was inspired by a local news article.
• High school students became activists against book banning.
• Understanding First Amendment rights is crucial for advocacy.
• Book bans can have a chilling effect on education.
• The definition of pornography in literature is often misused.
• Community involvement is key in fighting censorship.
• The film has won multiple awards at film festivals.
• Young adults can empower themselves through advocacy.
• The importance of voting for school board members is highlighted.
• The film aims to spark conversations about censorship and democracy.

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In this episode Karen speaks with Jennifer De La Jara, a fundraising expert and former school board member of the Charlotte Mecklenburg School District. They discuss Jennifer's experiences on the school board, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it affected public education and community perceptions. The conversation also delves into the legislative changes that have emerged post-COVID, including the rise of anti-CRT sentiments and parental rights movements, and the implications for public trust in education. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the need to support public education as a cornerstone of democracy.

Conversation Highlights:

• Jennifer De La Jara served on the school board during a tumultuous time.
• COVID-19 drastically changed the landscape of public education.
• The pandemic revealed deep divisions in community responses to education.
• Legislation post-COVID has been influenced by anti-CRT sentiments.
• Public education is a vital function of government and democracy.
• Trust in public institutions is crucial for community stability.
• Parental rights movements often overlook the rights of other parents.
• Community engagement is essential for effective public education.
• Legislative changes can have unintended consequences on school operations.
• The recent election of a supportive state superintendent is a hopeful sign. 

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In this episode Karen sits down with Lauren. Lauren shares her journey as an activist in Virginia, focusing on the challenges faced by public schools under the current administration. She discusses the rise of extremist policies, the importance of community collaboration, and the fight against book bans. Lauren emphasizes the personal stakes involved in advocating for public education, especially for parents of children with special needs. The conversation highlights the need for mobilization and unity among community members to protect public schools and ensure equitable access to education for all students.

Conversation Highlights:

• Lauren's activism began in response to anti-LGBTQ policies.
• The 'No Left Turn in Education' group mirrors Moms for Liberty.
• Governor Youngkin's administration has targeted public education.
• Community members are uniting against extremist school board actions.
• Book bans are a significant concern in Virginia schools.
• Parents have the right to choose educational materials for their children.
• Collaboration across political lines is essential for advocacy.
• Transparency in school board actions is crucial for accountability.
• The emotional toll of activism is real but necessary.
• Community engagement is key to protecting public education.

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In this episode Karen speaks with Jesse Hagopian, director of the Teaching for Black Lives campaign and author of 'Teach Truth.' They discuss the ongoing struggle for honest education in the face of laws that criminalize teaching about race, gender, and history. Jesse shares personal stories about his family's history with slavery, the importance of teaching the truth about America's past, and the need for grassroots organizing to combat censorship in schools. The conversation highlights the upcoming National Day of Action, 'Teach the Truth,' aimed at promoting anti-racist education and community engagement.

Conversation Highlights:

• The term 'post-truth' reflects the current state of education.
• Truth crime laws are criminalizing honest education.
• Discomfort in learning about history is necessary and should not be banned.
• Germany's approach to teaching about the Holocaust serves as a model for the U.S.
• Personal connections to history can inspire activism and remembrance.
• The book 'Teach Truth' aims to empower educators and students.
• Historical context shows a long-standing struggle for educational equity.
• Current laws are causing self-censorship among educators.
• Grassroots organizing is essential for change in education.
• The upcoming National Day of Action is a call to mobilize communities.

Resources From the Episode:

Website: www.iamaneducator.com

Link to Jesse's book: https://elliottbaybook.com/item/UfU8gx4LO9_0MKt_l7GyNw

Information about Teach the Truth: https://www.zinnedproject.org/news/teach-truth-day-of-action-2025/

Book launch in Seattle: "Teach Truth — Unbanning Books in Public Schools"

"The attack on antiracist education is at our front door, and there’s no clearer or more determined voice in this struggle than Jesse Hagopian's... This is a book that propels us forward."

—Bettina L. Love, author of Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children

"Jesse Hagopian's Teach Truth is the book we need right now. It's the book we have always needed... Hagopian clears away the cobweb of lies that have obscured our national history for generations of students."

—Diane Ravitch, author of Slaying Goliath

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In this episode Karen speaks with Debbie, a retired special education teacher and the new volunteer state director for New York. They discuss Debbie's journey in education, the challenges facing public schools, and the importance of community involvement in advocating for democracy and education. Debbie shares her insights on the necessity of public education, the impact of potential funding cuts, and the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of students, especially those with special needs.

Conversation Key Takeaways:

• Teaching special education requires understanding that kids learn differently.
• Public schools in New York rank in the top 20 out of 50 states.
• Teaching is not just a job; it requires dedication and hard work.
• Parents need to be actively involved in school board meetings.
• Defunding public education would have dire consequences for students.
• Public schools are required to accommodate all students, unlike private schools.
• Teachers often spend their own money on classroom supplies.
• Debbie emphasizes the importance of unions for teachers' rights.
• Community involvement is crucial for defending democracy in education.

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In this episode Karen speaks with Matt Hawn, a former teacher, and Rebecca Modrak, a professor, about the troubling trend of censorship in education. They discuss the personal stories of teachers facing harassment and dismissal for teaching controversial topics, the chilling effect this has on educators, and the broader implications for democracy and education. The conversation highlights the importance of supporting teachers and advocating for their rights, as well as the need for parents and community members to engage in the fight against censorship.

Conversation Highlights:

• Teachers are being silenced for teaching critical topics.
• Censorship creates a chilling effect on educators' speech.
• Personal stories reveal the emotional toll of censorship.
• Support systems for teachers are crucial during these times.
• Parents should advocate for their children's education.
• Legislation is impacting what teachers can teach.
• Community support can empower educators facing challenges.
• The importance of diverse viewpoints in education.
• Teachers are leaving the profession due to fear and harassment.
• Engagement in school board meetings is essential for change.

Resources from the conversation:
https://disobediencepress.com/trouble-in-censorville/
https://gofund.me/e5a25751
https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2021/12/06/tennessee-teacher-fired-critical-race-theory/
https://censorville.com/

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