KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with authors Tommy Orange and Aida Davis to discuss Black and Indigenous solidarity. Their conversation centered on themes of historical oppression, resilience, and the power of storytelling as reflected in their books, Wandering Stars and Kindred Creations: Parables and Paradigms for Freedom.

Tommy Orange, an Oakland-born author, spoke about the historical trauma caused by Native American boarding schools. His latest book, Wandering Stars, serves as both a prequel and sequel to his previous novel, There There.

“The motto was ‘Kill the Indian, save the man.’ The goal was to erase our identity,” Orange stated.

He explained how the boarding schools forcibly removed Native children from their communities, cutting their hair, prohibiting their languages, and enforcing military-style discipline.

“This history has not been taught. The average person sees boarding schools as elite institutions, not places of cultural genocide,” he added.

Aida Davis, a Baltimore-born author of Ethiopian descent, shared her perspective on Black resilience and the need for a shift from decolonization to creation. Her book, Kindred Creations, explores how Black and Indigenous communities can reclaim their heritage and humanity.

“We were African before we were anything else. Our connection to our ancestors is not broken,” Davis emphasized.

She discussed the importance of storytelling and oral traditions in both Black and Indigenous cultures, noting that these traditions serve as powerful tools of resistance.

“Our resistance is our history. Enslavement and genocide are white history. We must uplift the stories of victory and survival,” she declared.

Both authors highlighted the importance of storytelling in reclaiming identity and resisting systemic oppression. Orange noted that Native narratives are often depicted only in a historical context, creating the false perception that Indigenous people no longer exist.

“We are still here. Our stories need to reflect our present and future, not just our past,” Orange stated.

Davis echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that storytelling should celebrate joy, victory, and cultural richness rather than just trauma.

When asked about the importance of solidarity, both authors agreed that Black and Indigenous communities share common struggles and must unite against systemic injustice.

“We need to confront whiteness as a system of oppression. It’s not about proximity to whiteness, but about reclaiming our own power,” Davis asserted.

Orange acknowledged historical divisions between the two communities but stressed the need for healing and collective action.

“We have room to grow. We have a shared history of resistance, and it’s time to build on that together,” he said.

The discussion concluded with a call for more gatherings that foster Black and Indigenous unity. Davis emphasized the importance of community-building beyond formal activism.

“We need to party more, break bread together, and make relatives. That’s how real connections form,” she said.

The event, Literacy for Liberation: Forging Alliances for Black and Indigenous Power, was hosted by Courage and the Brotherhood of Elders Network at 1150 35th Avenue in Oakland. Featuring food, drumming, and cultural exchange, it served as a space to deepen relationships and strengthen alliances.

As conversations about decolonization and racial justice continue, the voices of authors like Tommy Orange and Aida Davis remain vital. Their work reminds us that solidarity is not just about shared struggle but about collective healing, creation, and empowerment.

For those interested in learning more, Wandering Stars and Kindred Creations are essential reads that offer profound insights into the ongoing fight for justice and cultural reclamation.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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Hard Knock Radios latest session featured a profound conversation with activist Melinda, also known as Brown Girl Pride. This dialogue shed light on vital social justice issues, particularly concerning the Latino community and its complex relationship with racial identity and systemic oppression and white supremacy.

The Essence of Speaking Truth to Power

Davey D opened the show by emphasizing the importance of providing a platform for voices that challenge misleading narratives and harmful stereotypes within the community. He introduced Melinda, who has been utilizing her social media presence effectively to address significant misconceptions, especially around the notion of Latinos voting in large numbers for conservative causes and the pursuit of proximity to whiteness within the community.

Melindas Journey of Awakening

Melinda shared that her journey of activism began paradoxically in the military, a place where she encountered diverse racial and ethnic groups, which was different from her predominantly Mexican and white community growing up. This exposure started her on a path to decolonize her understanding of her own identity and the broader social narratives fed to her through mainstream media.

Addressing Historical Erasure and Misinformation

A significant part of the discussion revolved around the erasure of historical truths, particularly concerning Latino histories. Melinda pointed out the detrimental effects of such erasures, not only in distorting public understanding but also in impacting the communities self-perception and political engagement. She stressed the empowerment that comes from reclaiming and teaching the true histories of oppressed communities.

The Role of Decolonization in Social Justice

A Call to Action Against Disinformation

Throughout the conversation, Melinda passionately argued against the disinformation rampant in political and media landscapes, particularly highlighting how false narratives about ethnic voting patterns can exacerbate divisions and perpetuate injustice. She called for vigilance and critical engagement with media to counteract these trends.

Challenging Misconceptions: The 52% Voting Statistic and Proximity to Whiteness

During the discussion, Melinda addressed the widely circulated statistic that 52% of Latinos voted for a conservative candidate, highlighting it as a flawed representation. She explained how this figure was misleading, based on inadequate sample sizes and premature data. This narrative oversimplified the diverse political views within Latino communities and ignored factors like voter suppression and misinformation.

Melinda also delved into the concept of proximity to whiteness, discussing how assimilation and identity are influenced by societal pressures. She argued that these pressures often lead some individuals within minority groups to align themselves with majority norms and values, which can include political affiliations, in an effort to gain acceptance or avoid discrimination. She also detailed how weaponized and circumstantial. It changes from region to region and emerges at various time periods as a way to divide communities and enhance the majority population.

Conclusion: Harnessing Media for Education and Empowerment

The discussion concluded with Melinda encouraging listeners to use every available platform to educate themselves and others. She highlighted her educational initiatives on social media, where she engages in book studies and discussions to deepen the understanding of indigenous histories and current social justice issues.

This powerful session on Hard Knock Radio not only illuminated the struggles and resistance of marginalized communities but also underscored the crucial role of media in shaping, challenging, and advancing the discourse around racial and social justice.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

The post Decolonizing Our Minds and Fighting White Supremacy w/ Melinda “Brown Girl Pride” appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

The post Hard Knock Radio – February 25, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

In a poignant episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged with Jamal Ibn Mumia, the activist son of political prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal. During this Black History Month special, they delve into the ongoing struggles faced by political prisoners and the systemic issues of racial injustice and corruption in the criminal justice system.

Celebrating Black History and Confronting Injustice The episode kicked off with Davey D acknowledging Black History Month and the need to celebrate figures like Huey P. Newton. The conversation quickly shifted to the plight of Mumia Abu-Jamal, a former Black Panther and journalist who has been imprisoned for over four decades.

Jamal Ibn Mumia’s Perspective Jamal shared personal insights into the challenges of growing up with a father behind bars, painting a vivid picture of his father’s resilience and the emotional toll on their family. He discussed the broader implications of his father’s case, emphasizing the racial tensions and police brutality prevalent during Mumia’s arrest and subsequent trial.

The Role of Media and Journalism Jamal criticized the mainstream media’s failure to adequately cover issues affecting Black and Brown communities, highlighting his father’s efforts to give a voice to the voiceless through journalism. He stressed the importance of independent media in challenging the prevailing narratives crafted by those in power.

Systemic Corruption and Political Warfare The discussion also touched on the corrupt practices within the legal and political systems that have kept Mumia imprisoned. Jamal detailed how laws and regulations are manipulated to maintain control over political dissidents, referring to this manipulation as “political lawfare.”

The Impact of Political Activism Through their dialogue, Davey D and Jamal explored how the activism of figures like Mumia Abu-Jamal has paved the way for current movements and debates around justice and equity. They connected past struggles with present challenges, noting the cyclical nature of oppression and resistance.

Conclusion: Reflections and Continuing the Fight The episode concluded with a powerful call to action, urging listeners to educate themselves about the history and current realities of political prisoners like Mumia Abu-Jamal. Jamal’s narrative served as a reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and the need to support those who have sacrificed their freedom for the betterment of society.

This detailed account of the conversation on Hard Knock Radio underscores the ongoing relevance of the issues discussed and the power of media to enlighten and mobilize communities for change.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

The post Hard Knock Radio: A Conversation with Jamal Ibn Mumia the son of Mumia Abu-Jamal appeared first on KPFA.

In a rare and illuminating conversation on Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with the late Gus Newport, a revered human rights activist and former mayor of Berkeley. While many recognize Newport’s work in politics and social justice, fewer know of his deep personal connection with Malcolm X, a relationship forged in the heart of the struggle for Black liberation. This conversation unearthed powerful insights into Malcolm’s formative years, his political evolution, and the forces that sought to silence him.

Newport began by highlighting Malcolm X’s familial roots in activism, tracing them back to his father, a minister and staunch follower of Marcus Garvey. Malcolm’s father’s alignment with Garveyism placed him in direct opposition to white supremacist forces, ultimately leading to his assassination by the Ku Klux Klan. Tragically, Malcolm’s older brother also fell victim to racist violence, a devastating pattern that shaped Malcolm’s worldview and ignited his lifelong commitment to justice.

Newport emphasized how the media has historically suppressed these aspects of Malcolm’s history, opting instead to paint a narrative of criminality and radicalism rather than one of resilience and righteous defiance. This erasure, Newport contended, is part of a larger systemic effort to control the historical narrative and minimize the impact of Black resistance movements.

Newport recalled his first meeting with Malcolm in 1961, a moment that changed his life. At the time, Newport was deeply involved in civil rights activism in Rochester, New York. After police raided a Nation of Islam mosque and brutally assaulted its members, Malcolm personally reached out to Newport through mutual activist connections. What followed was a two-hour phone call, where Malcolm interrogated Newport about the conditions in Rochester—employment, schools, racial tensions—ultimately making him recognize the insidious realities of systemic racism he had become conditioned to accept.

When Malcolm arrived in Rochester, the FBI was already watching. Newport described Malcolm stepping off the plane, immediately recognizing the federal agents surrounding them, and quipping, “Youngblood, you got the best tapped telephone in America.” This moment underscored how closely law enforcement monitored Malcolm, viewing his activism as a threat to the status quo.

Newport discussed Malcolm’s ideological transformation and his eventual departure from the Nation of Islam. Disillusioned by internal corruption and ideological contradictions—particularly Elijah Muhammad’s secret meetings with the Ku Klux Klan—Malcolm sought a new path. In 1964, he founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity (OAAU), dedicated to internationalizing the struggle for Black liberation.

Newport worked closely with Malcolm during this period, witnessing firsthand his efforts to unify the African diaspora and expose U.S. imperialism on the global stage. Malcolm’s travels to Africa and the Middle East, including his pilgrimage to Mecca, further solidified his ideological shift. Newport recounted Malcolm’s revelation that Elijah Muhammad’s teachings had distorted Islam, leading him to seek a more inclusive and politically sophisticated approach to Black liberation.

Newport also revealed Malcolm’s complex relationships with figures in Harlem’s underworld, particularly legendary gangster Bumpy Johnson. While Malcolm was known for his disciplined, moralistic approach to activism, he maintained respect and alliances with Harlem’s street leaders, recognizing their influence within the Black community. Johnson, who had built a formidable reputation by standing up to the Italian mafia, reportedly admired Malcolm’s commitment and discipline.

Newport recounted how Bumpy and other Harlem figures ensured Malcolm’s safety, illustrating the intricate balance between street politics and revolutionary movements. Malcolm’s ability to engage with all facets of the Black experience—from intellectuals to hustlers—was a testament to his authenticity and deep understanding of Black America’s struggles.

One of the most compelling revelations in the interview was the growing relationship between Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Contrary to mainstream narratives that pit them against each other, Newport detailed how Malcolm and King had begun exchanging ideas and were moving toward a strategic alliance before Malcolm’s assassination.

Newport cited evidence, including FBI wiretaps, that revealed phone conversations between the two leaders. At a pivotal meeting hosted by Sidney Poitier, Ossie Davis, and Ruby Dee, Malcolm expressed his willingness to transition into the civil rights movement, acknowledging the strategic necessity of nonviolent resistance. King, in turn, agreed to support Malcolm’s efforts to bring the United States before the United Nations on charges of human rights violations.

The FBI took note of this potential alliance. Shortly after, J. Edgar Hoover labeled Malcolm “the most dangerous Black man in the world.”

Newport provided chilling details about the state’s orchestration of Malcolm’s assassination. Just days before his murder, Malcolm confided in Newport that he was a “dead man walking.” Surveillance of the OAAU had intensified, and evidence now suggests the NYPD conducted a “dry run” for his assassination, with one of the shooters later identified as an undercover officer.

Adding to the tragedy was the deliberate delay in medical assistance. Newport noted that Malcolm was shot just across the street from New York Presbyterian Hospital, yet it took 45 minutes for emergency responders to intervene. This delay, compounded by the FBI’s infiltration of his inner circle, further points to a coordinated effort to eliminate him.

As the interview concluded, Newport reflected on the lessons Malcolm’s life holds for contemporary movements. He stressed the importance of historical accuracy, exposing government repression, and challenging the media’s role in shaping public perception.

Newport emphasized that both Malcolm and Martin were ultimately betrayed by elements within their own movements, manipulated by a system designed to co-opt, divide, and neutralize Black leadership. Their assassinations were not just acts of violence but strategic moves to prevent revolutionary unity.

He left listeners with a call to action: “History has to be recorded. We need to expose the tactics used against us so we can challenge them and move forward.”

This Hard Knock Radio conversation with Gus Newport provided a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Malcolm X’s life, struggles, and evolution. It underscored the need to challenge official narratives, recognize the interconnectedness of global struggles, and honor the legacies of those who fought for liberation.

In today’s era of political upheaval and renewed resistance, Malcolm’s words remain as relevant as ever: “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with Minneapolis-based educator and freelance journalist Marjaan MJ Sirdar. The conversation delved into the deeper history of Target’s involvement in law enforcement, racialized surveillance, and its strategic influence over public policy. As Target rescinds its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, Sirdar’s research reveals that the corporation’s commitment to racialized policing has remained steadfast.

Recently, Target announced the removal of its DEI policies, ceasing displays for Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and LGBTQ+ celebrations. While some viewed this as a response to political pressures, Sirdar’s research suggests that Target’s policies were performative from the start.

“They were really working vehemently against the interests of Black folks,” Sirdar explained. “Everything they were doing off record was anti-Black to the core.”

Sirdar’s 12-part investigative series, 21st Century Jim Crow in the North Star City, published on Unicorn Riot, exposes how Target has played a major role in urban policing. According to his findings, Target helped fund local law enforcement and prosecutors in Minneapolis, creating a surveillance network that disproportionately targeted Black youth.

“In 2003, Target built state-of-the-art crime labs,” Sirdar revealed. “They quickly became a leader in surveillance, opening their labs to the FBI, CIA, NSA, and even ICE.”

One of the most alarming findings in Sirdar’s investigation is Target’s development of a mass surveillance system. This includes high-tech security cameras, facial recognition technology, and partnerships with law enforcement agencies across the country.

“Target has files on you, your children, and even knows what time is on your watch at checkout,” said Sirdar. “They’ve built a system where they track individuals, compiling data that police later use to justify arrests.”

Target’s collaboration with law enforcement didn’t stop at technology. The corporation has actively funded city prosecutors and influenced criminal justice policies that disproportionately impact marginalized communities.

In Minneapolis, Target supported a policing initiative called the “Downtown 100” program. Under this initiative, individuals were tracked not for crimes committed, but for how frequently they had encounters with police. Many of those placed on the list were Black youth and homeless individuals.

“This program was supposed to reduce crime,” Sirdar said. “Instead, it became a feeder program from the streets to prison.”

Even minor infractions—such as loitering, spitting on the sidewalk, or jaywalking—could lead to individuals being placed on this list and eventually banned from downtown.

Target has also been a key player in pushing crime panic narratives. The company has claimed staggering losses due to retail theft, sometimes reporting figures that exceed $1 billion annually. However, Sirdar’s analysis raises serious doubts about these claims.

“If you divide that $1 billion by 2,000 stores, that’s over $500,000 in theft per store per year,” Sirdar noted. “That’s an impossible number when you consider their top-tier security.”

The company’s claims of rampant theft have been weaponized to justify store closures in predominantly Black and Brown communities, reinforcing harmful stereotypes about urban crime.

Sirdar’s reporting reveals that Target’s influence extends far beyond retail. It has positioned itself as an unofficial law enforcement entity, funding local prosecutors, developing cutting-edge surveillance, and shaping urban policing policies that disproportionately harm Black and Brown communities.

“Target isn’t just a retail giant—it’s a corporate police force,” Sirdar concluded. “If people are serious about holding them accountable, they need to look beyond their DEI initiatives and into their deep ties to law enforcement.”

For those interested in learning more, Sirdar’s investigative series can be found on Unicorn Riot.

Hard Knock Radio will continue to highlight critical conversations that expose the intersection of corporate influence, policing, and racial justice. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions with leading voices in investigative journalism and activism.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

The post The Hidden Side of Target: Surveillance, Policing, and a Call for Scrutiny appeared first on KPFA.

The Plight of Leonard Peltier: A Reflection of Systemic Injustice

In a poignant session of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D was joined by activist and freedom fighter Kalonji Changa to discuss the harrowing yet resilient journey of political prisoner Leonard Peltier. Changa detailed his recent visit to Peltier, emphasizing the surreal and historic nature of the encounter, as Peltier neared his release after nearly 50 years of imprisonment.

Changa painted a vivid picture of the systemic barriers that prolong the incarceration of political figures like Peltier. His narrative not only shared the complexities of Peltier’s case but also highlighted broader issues affecting political prisoners in America. The conversation extended to the recent activities around Peltier’s case, capturing the essence of what it means to fight against a resistant and often oppressive system.

Cultural Icons and Political Prisoners: The Intersection of Resistance and Liberation

The dialogue transitioned into a broader discussion on the role of cultural icons and political prisoners as symbols of resistance. Changa articulated the profound impact these figures have on society, serving as reminders of historical injustices and ongoing struggles for equity and liberation.

This segment of the conversation was particularly powerful, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the significance of maintaining the legacy and voices of those like Peltier, who have sacrificed their freedom for the fight against oppression.

The Legacy of Daruba Bin Wahad: Documenting Resistance

A significant portion of the show was dedicated to discussing the work and impact of Daruba Bin Wahad, another key figure in the struggle for justice. Changa and Davey D explored the importance of documenting and preserving the intellectual and activist contributions of Wahad. This was not just about reminiscing but about inspiring future generations to continue the fight for social justice.

The discussion underscored the necessity of capturing the essence of these movements through books, media, and direct action, highlighting the power of written and spoken word in the fight against systemic injustices.

Conclusion: The Role of Media and Communication in Activism

Kalonji Changa’s insights into the intertwining of entertainment, politics, and activism brought the conversation full circle, emphasizing the significant role media plays in shaping public perception and political landscapes. This part of the discussion was crucial in understanding how narratives are crafted and the importance of controlling these narratives to influence change.

In conclusion, the episode with Kalonji Changa on Hard Knock Radio served as a profound reminder of the enduring spirit of those who fight for justice and the crucial role of media in amplifying their voices. It was a call to action for listeners to engage with and contribute to these narratives, ensuring that the lessons of the past and the aspirations for a more equitable future are not forgotten.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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A decade behind bars spurs fifty powerful years of political and legal battles for freedom and human rights. “Whoever wants to assuage their doubts that radical change is possible—from the level of the individual to that of law, culture, and society—should make time to read Dorsey Nunn’s extraordinary memoir.” —Angela Y. Davis “Dorsey Nunn is one of the grand love warriors and freedom fighters of his generation! Don’t miss his powerful and poignant story of tragedy and triumph!” —Cornel West “So much of what I’ve come to know and understand over the years about the second-class status imposed upon people labeled ‘criminals’ or ‘felons’ I’ve learned from Dorsey and the people who comprise All of Us or None, an organization he cofounded. Although I have fancy degrees and Dorsey does not, there’s never been a time in our friendship in which he hasn’t been schooling me—not so much in theory, but in practice.” —From the foreword by Michelle Alexander When Dorsey Nunn shuffled, shackled like a slave, into the California State carceral system at age nineteen, he could barely read. While caged he received an education he never could have anticipated. His first lesson: Prison had a color scheme, and it didn’t match the larger society. On the inside, guards stoked racial warfare among prisoners while on the outside the machinery of the criminal legal system increasingly targeted poor Black and Brown communities with offenses, real or contrived. Nunn emerged from San Quentin after ten years behind bars, radicalized by his experience and emboldened by the militant wisdom of the men he met there. He poured his heart and mind into liberating all those he left behind, building a nationwide movement to restore justice to millions of system-impacted Americans. In this poignant, wry, and powerful memoir, Nunn links the politics of Black Power to the movements for Black lives and dignified reentry today. His story underscores the power of coalition building, persistence in the face of backlash, and the importance of centering the voices of experience in the fight for freedom—and proves, once and for all, that jailbirds can fly.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

The post What Kind of Bird Can’t Fly: A Memoir of Resilience and Resurrection appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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