Humanize

Can America handle its first female President of color? The unexpected exit of Joe Biden from the presidential race has catapulted Kamala Harris into the spotlight as the presumptive Democratic nominee, and we’re here to unpack this seismic political shift. On this episode of Humanize, we confront the narrative and challenges Harris is bound to face, particularly around race and gender. We dissect the fear-based tactics that often cloud critical issues and discuss the hopes that Harris will tackle pressing concerns like women's reproductive rights and broader social justice issues. This moment is especially significant as it's the first time since 1976 that no Bush, Clinton, or Biden will be on the presidential ticket.

 

 

Can confronting our own biases truly lead to a more inclusive society? Join us as we unpack the complexities of race, culture, and power dynamics within professional settings through Emily's eye-opening experience in a DEI book group focused on climate justice. When a disruptive participant challenges the discussion, Emily steps up, sparking an insightful exchange that underlines the persistent blind spots white people often have regarding the struggles faced by marginalized communities. This episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing these blind spots and the emotional labor involved in confronting our limited perspectives.

The journey doesn't end there. We delve into the transformative power of friendship in challenging ingrained homophobic beliefs. Through a heartfelt personal story, we explore how a meaningful connection can serve as a catalyst for re-evaluating deeply-rooted prejudices against LGBTQ+ individuals. This internal struggle between ignorance and understanding highlights the significant role of openness in expanding our perspectives and aligning our actions with our values. Embracing discomfort is essential for personal growth and advocacy, and we share our experiences and insights to inspire you on your path towards becoming a more inclusive and compassionate individual.

0:00:03) - Unpacking Blind Spots and Empathy

DEI book group discusses race, culture, and power, highlighting blind spots and emotional impact in climate justice work.

(0:13:20) - Challenging Perspectives

Transformative journey of challenging ingrained homophobic beliefs, learning from others' experiences, aligning actions with integrity and discomfort in personal growth.

If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: https://www.patreon.com/thehumanizepodcast 

Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast 

Email: [email protected]

 

DEI is not just a buzzword—it's a battleground. Discover how initiatives meant to ensure equal opportunities are being twisted for profit, and the backlash they face from political factions that misuse terms like "DEI president." In this episode, we scrutinize how DEI has become politicized, drawing parallels to historical efforts like affirmative action. We will unpack the tension between DEI's noble intentions and its potential exploitation within a capitalist framework.

But DEI's value in business can't be overstated. We explore how true diversity involves more than just skin color, encompassing diversity of thought that fuels innovation. You'll hear why equity is crucial for meeting the unique needs of all employees and how inclusion makes everyone feel acknowledged and appreciated, from cultural celebrations to workplace support systems. Join us as we highlight the transformative power of DEI in building successful, committed, and profitable organizations, emphasizing smart hiring practices that can open doors to diverse markets and elevate your business.

Links:

www.refreshcommunication.com

Recommended Reading: DEI Deconstructed 

If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: https://www.patreon.com/thehumanizepodcast 

Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast 

Email: [email protected]

(0:00:05) - DEI Misuse in Social Justice DEI initiatives have been co-opted by capitalism, politicized, and face backlash from right-wing factions. (0:16:27) - The Power of DEI in Business Diversity, equity, and inclusion are crucial for a successful organization, leading to innovation, employee satisfaction, and access to diverse markets.

Trump's comment about immigrants "taking black jobs" isn't just misguided—it's harmful. Join us as we, Courtney Russell Jr. and Emily Braucher, unpack the damaging implications of such statements on marginalized communities. From the recent presidential debate to the deeper complexities of racially charged language, we express our frustrations and explore how these divisive comments perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce social hierarchies. Our conversation delves into the problematic nature of labeling activities or opportunities as racially exclusive, and how these labels further marginalize already vulnerable groups.

In this episode, we don't just stop at critiquing political rhetoric. We dive into the core issues of systemic racism versus individual prejudice, highlighting the distinction and why it's crucial to understand in today's sociopolitical climate. We examine whether within the current societal structures in the US, black and brown people cannot be racist due to their positionality within the system. Tune in for a nuanced and thought-provoking discussion as we challenge conventional narratives and reflect on the broader disappointments with both presidential candidates. Join us for this critical conversation and get a glimpse of our evolving podcast format that promises more frequent, candid dialogues alongside guest episodes.

(00:02:33) "Racial Dynamics in Political Discourse"

(00:04:58) Avoiding Racial Labels in Job Titles

(00:10:23) Racism: Systemic Oppression Over Personal Biases

(00:13:39) Racial Job Labeling Impacts on Stereotypes

Junie Joseph is a dedicated advocate for human rights, particularly addressing racial inequality and systemic challenges through her work in law. Her perspective on these issues is deeply influenced by her personal experiences of facing danger and adversity, including life-threatening situations that have reinforced her resilience and commitment to justice. In this episode, Junie emphasizes the interconnectedness of issues like diversity, equity, inclusion, and economic disparity, arguing that they must be tackled holistically. Her legislative work, heavily informed by her time as a human rights officer in the Central African Republic, focuses on tenant rights, criminal justice reform, and environmental conservation, advocating for systemic changes that uplift marginalized communities.

 

(00:00:04) Equitable Society Advocacy for Environmental Sustainability

(00:15:15) Advocacy for Marginalized Communities in Conflict

(00:20:12) Advocating for Marginalized Communities Through Community Engagement

(00:23:31) Advocating for Tenant Rights and Environmental Sustainability

(00:36:04) Navigating Legislative Challenges for Social Change

(00:37:57) Equity and Inclusion in Policy making Governance

(00:44:19) Legislators and Activists Collaborating for Change

(00:51:22) Systemic Change vs. Accountability in Policing

(00:54:33) Equitable Systems: Addressing Racial Disparities

(00:54:33) Striving for Equity and Transparency in Justice

 

Here are three key takeaways from the episode:

1. **Advocacy and Accountability**: Junie Joseph underlines the significance of advocacy and holding perpetrators accountable for crimes against vulnerable populations. She shares her experiences working in challenging environments and highlights the need for collective action to address systemic challenges.

2. **Inclusive Decision-Making**: Junie Joseph stresses the importance of having everyone at the table to find equitable solutions. She emphasizes the need for diverse voices to actively participate in policymaking processes rather than being mere observers.

3. **Balanced Approach to Reform**: Courthney Russell Jr and Junie Joseph discuss the need for accountability and transparency in the justice system, advocating for a balanced approach to reform that ensures equity for black and brown individuals. Junie Joseph's pragmatic approach to navigating challenges is evident in her quote: "An activist wants to go to full 100%, and if I go for 100%, the bill is going to die."

 

Learn more about Junie: https://www.junie4colorado.com

 

If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: https://www.patreon.com/thehumanizepodcast Just $5/month makes a huge difference!

 

Let’s talk about it! Connect with us to continue the conversation:

 

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast 

Email: [email protected]

 

“I have made mistakes and I have paid the ultimate cost for them and I am still here.” 

 - Leon Kennedy III

 

We are absolutely floored by our conversation with Leon. Here is a man who, through the darkest times imaginable, has reached into the depths of his being to find strength, perseverance and hope. 

Since his first incarceration at the age of 19 in Virginia, Leon has spent decades of his life behind bars in some of the U.S.’s most violent and corrupt prisons, while also battling a chronic neural disease. He was granted parole 3 years ago and lives with his wife in their home in Alabama, where he continues to fight for justice in America’s corrupted incarceration system.   

 

Listen to hear us talk about

• Leon’s life-story from incarceration to freedom

• Mental & emotional fortitude 

• Lessons learned and chances given

• The violence and injustice of Alabama’s prison system

• “Reaching back” to help those behind you

• U.S. incarceration system as modern day slavery

• The current lawsuit against Alabama’s prison system

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Connect with Leon:

[email protected] 

[email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leon.kennedyiii

 

Get Involved:

https://www.dreamdefenders.org/

https://apaep.auburn.edu/

https://offenderalumniassociation.org/

https://alabamaappleseed.org/

 

If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: https://www.patreon.com/thehumanizepodcast 

 

Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation:

 

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast 

Email: [email protected]

 

What would it look like if every person in the U.S. was well versed in the history of racism?

Today we are unpacking the Netflix adaptation of Ibram X. Kendi’s “Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America”. This documentary is a must watch if you haven’t already, and check out more of our recommended resources below. 

 

Listen to hear us talk about:

• How denial operates

• White supremacy fails everyone

• Community and tribalism

• Historical opportunities for progress

• How do the problems of racism we are facing now compare to historical problems? 

 

Resources mentioned: 

• Stamped From The Beginning (Netflix)

• Rustin (Netflix)

• ‘Fugitive Pedagogy’ by Jarvis R. Givens

• The 1619 Project

• ‘Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents’ by Isabel Wilkerson

• ‘Pedagogy of the Oppressed’ by Paulo Freire

 

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If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: https://www.patreon.com/thehumanizepodcast 

 

Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation:

 

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast

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Email: [email protected]

“We need to build community like our life depends on it.” 

We are joined today by awe-inspiring Nana Boakye; local philantropist and community builder from Ghana to Boulder. Nana chanelled his passion for soccer into “Kick2Build” community organization, and in this episode we hear how and why he created this inclusive community, and how diversity is celebrated using sports and cultural arts.  

Listen to hear us talk about:

• Community building as a long term responsibility  

• Race and intersectionality

• Capitalism & white supremacy culture 

• ‘Black’ v. ‘African American’ identity

• Community is the answer

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Connect with Nana and Kick2Build:

Instagram - Justboakye 

Facebook - Nana K. Boakye

www.kicktobuild.org 

 

If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: https://www.patreon.com/thehumanizepodcast 

 

Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast 

Email: [email protected]

 

Today we are unpacking some big themes from last week’s episode with Dr. Roberto Montoya: “CRT is Race Consciousness”. Join us as we push into edgy territory; asking ‘scary’ questions about race, expanding our comfort zones and as always, leading with love.

 

Listen to hear us talk about:

• The blindness privilege 

• The discomfort of cultural change 

• Allowing complex feelings 

• Cancel culture vs. curiosity culture

• Where we’ve come from, bringing in lineage 

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If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: https://www.patreon.com/thehumanizepodcast 

 

Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation:

 

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast

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Email: [email protected]

This is such a special episode, we’ve been waiting 2 years to release it! Today we are talking all things CRT (Critical Race Theory) with Dr. Roberto Montoya, Associate VP of Partner Success for Hispanic Serving Institutions. Weaving poetry, personal experiences and academia, Dr. Montoya gives us an insightful framework to understand CRT, race consciousness and why having race explicit conversations are necessary for every single one of us to make sense of this world.

 

Listen to hear us talk about:

• How is race consciousness developed

• How CRT is weaponized

• The importance of knowing our own story 

• Centering dignity 

• How to call people into this work, through curiosity

• Understanding academic roots

• Critical race parenting

• Measuring institutional support 

 

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If you’d like to support us in continuing this work, we’d be honored if you’d consider donating here: https://www.patreon.com/thehumanizepodcast 

 

Let’s talk about it! Connect with us and continue the conversation:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehumanizepodcast

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehumanizepodcast 

Email: [email protected]