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Getting Black Into Action
In this powerful and wide-ranging episode of Melanin and Moonlight, Tyrell and Vernon dive into culture, accountability, faith, and Black joy—challenging listeners to think critically while staying grounded in community.
The episode opens with a discussion on the controversy surrounding Morris Brown College and the firing—and subsequent reinstatement—of its current president, Dr. Kevin James. Tyrell and Vernon unpack why the situation felt misaligned with standard practices in higher education leadership and share their perspectives on how the events unfolded, raising broader questions about governance, transparency, and institutional decision-making within this historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
The conversation then shifts to media representation, with a focus on the ongoing lack of authentic Black queer stories. Tyrell and Vernon emphasize the importance of narratives that center Black queer joy, love, and complexity rather than trauma alone. They contrast this absence with the growing mainstream acceptance of White queer stories and examine how that imbalance shapes visibility and value. This leads into a critique of the streaming platform Zeus, where the hosts discuss its cultural impact, toxic dynamics, and limitations—acknowledging that while such content has a place, it should not be the only representation of Black queer life.
Taking a more somber turn, the duo addresses suicidality within Christianity, particularly within the Black church. They explore how certain religious messages and worship songs—such as Tamela Mann’s “Take Me to the King”—can simultaneously inspire endurance while also reflecting themes of exhaustion, defeat, and emotional distress. Tyrell and Vernon discuss patterns they’ve noticed between religious practice, silence around mental health, and suicidal ideation, calling for more honest and compassionate conversations within faith communities.
The episode closes on an affirming and celebratory note as the hosts reflect on the 100-year legacy of Black History Week, now recognized as Black History Month. Tyrell and Vernon share their thoughts on the significance of the month and leave listeners with encouragement, pride, and a call to action rooted in Black resilience and self-worth.
Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:
* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org
* Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741
* The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ support) – Call 866-488-7386 or text START to 678678
* If you are outside the U.S., visit findahelpline.com for international resources.
You are not alone, and support is always within reach.
Follow the podcast: https://linktr.ee/melaninandmoonlight
Media recommendations: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14tWh9iFz-hO7pzXVdcjOUnI7LBXtTTToAWeICgBM_T0/edit?usp=sharing
View all episodes
By Tyrell Collins, Vernon ScottIn this powerful and wide-ranging episode of Melanin and Moonlight, Tyrell and Vernon dive into culture, accountability, faith, and Black joy—challenging listeners to think critically while staying grounded in community.
The episode opens with a discussion on the controversy surrounding Morris Brown College and the firing—and subsequent reinstatement—of its current president, Dr. Kevin James. Tyrell and Vernon unpack why the situation felt misaligned with standard practices in higher education leadership and share their perspectives on how the events unfolded, raising broader questions about governance, transparency, and institutional decision-making within this historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
The conversation then shifts to media representation, with a focus on the ongoing lack of authentic Black queer stories. Tyrell and Vernon emphasize the importance of narratives that center Black queer joy, love, and complexity rather than trauma alone. They contrast this absence with the growing mainstream acceptance of White queer stories and examine how that imbalance shapes visibility and value. This leads into a critique of the streaming platform Zeus, where the hosts discuss its cultural impact, toxic dynamics, and limitations—acknowledging that while such content has a place, it should not be the only representation of Black queer life.
Taking a more somber turn, the duo addresses suicidality within Christianity, particularly within the Black church. They explore how certain religious messages and worship songs—such as Tamela Mann’s “Take Me to the King”—can simultaneously inspire endurance while also reflecting themes of exhaustion, defeat, and emotional distress. Tyrell and Vernon discuss patterns they’ve noticed between religious practice, silence around mental health, and suicidal ideation, calling for more honest and compassionate conversations within faith communities.
The episode closes on an affirming and celebratory note as the hosts reflect on the 100-year legacy of Black History Week, now recognized as Black History Month. Tyrell and Vernon share their thoughts on the significance of the month and leave listeners with encouragement, pride, and a call to action rooted in Black resilience and self-worth.
Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:
* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org
* Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741
* The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ support) – Call 866-488-7386 or text START to 678678
* If you are outside the U.S., visit findahelpline.com for international resources.
You are not alone, and support is always within reach.
Follow the podcast: https://linktr.ee/melaninandmoonlight
Media recommendations: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14tWh9iFz-hO7pzXVdcjOUnI7LBXtTTToAWeICgBM_T0/edit?usp=sharing