This week on "Like It Is," we chronicle the extraordinary efforts of environmentalist Julia Butterfly Hill, whose remarkable journey of activism captivated the nation. In an inspiring and unforgettable act of defiance, 23-year-old Julia lived in a 200-foot tall, 1000-year-old California Redwood tree named "Luna" for 738 days to prevent it from being cut down by a lumber company.

Julia's fierce advocacy for the environment began in California, where she embarked on her mission to save Luna from destruction. Her commitment to protecting this ancient Redwood drew national attention, particularly as she refused to descend despite repeated calls from local officials and the timber company.

Join us as we explore Julia's profound connection to the environment and the lengths she was willing to go to protect it. Listen to her first-hand account of the fight, challenges, and the lasting impact of her courageous stand.

Tune in to this episode for an inspiring story, Julia Butterfly Hill's tale is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make in the fight to protect our planet.

Delve into the complexities and challenges of public service with our special guest, Amourence Lee. As the former mayor of San Mateo, California, Lee offers an unfiltered look at the realities of being a public servant, as the first Asian woman elected to office in the largest City in her San Francisco, Bay Area County.

In this compelling episode, Lee, a dedicated community builder, shares her personal experiences, including the physical threats and intimidation she has faced. Despite these daunting challenges, she remains resolute in her oath to the community. Lee speaks candidly about her personal experience living in affordable housing and her historic victory to win her election and build the largest affordable housing project in the City's history.  

There is a true price of public service, especially for leaders of color who are making history and changing the face of leadership. Tune in to gain insight into the courage, resilience and dedication required to be a public servant in today's world.

Join our conversation with renowned Lebanese-American media critic, scholar, and author Jack Shaheen to discuss his groundbreaking work on how Hollywood perpetuates harmful stereotypes of Arabs and Muslims in Western media.

As the author of "Reel Bad Arabs," Jack Shaheen dedicated his career to exposing and challenging racial and ethnic stereotypes in popular culture. His insightful analysis sheds light on how Hollywood corrupts, demeans, and manipulates images of Arabs, perpetuating harmful misconceptions and contributing to negative perceptions in society.

Our candid and engaging conversation with Shaheen delves into the impact of these stereotypes, the power of media representation, and the importance of combating prejudice and discrimination through critical media literacy.

This memorable and award-winning episode sheds light on the transformative impact of one woman and was honored with a Silver CINDY Award from the International CINDY Competition.

In this edition of Like It Is, we pay tribute to the late Dorothy Garner, an extraordinary woman who was the first female prison corrections officer in the State of Michigan. Affectionately known as "Mama G" by inmates, she commanded respect both behind bars and in her community. As a Community Activist in Detroit, Dorothy tirelessly promoted self-help and parental responsibility to empower inner-city youth. Her compassion and commitment to social and civil rights issues resonated deeply with those she encountered, leaving an indelible mark on her city.

Join us as we celebrate Dorothy Garner's remarkable life and legacy, highlighting her dedication to creating positive change and uplifting her community.

In this edition of Like It Is, we focus on Barbara Hudson's story as a survivor of domestic violence. She bravely shares her story of abuse encompassing various forms such as physical aggression, threats, and control. 

In the United States, approximately 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence and other forms of abuse (CDC). Often hidden behind closed doors, domestic violence has devastating consequences on individuals, families, and our communities at large. 

Join us as we listen to Barbara's journey, recognizing her resilience and the urgent need for education and action to combat domestic violence. This episode emphasizes our collective responsibility to create a society free from violence and abuse.

In this special episode of Like It Is, we are privileged to feature the late Harry Wu, a towering international figure in the realm of human rights activism. He is a renowned Chinese-American human rights leader who survived 19 years as a political prisoner in Chinese labor camps and joins Like It Is to share his remarkable story. 

During the interview, Wu reflected on his advocacy for freedom and democratic reform in China, offering profound insights rooted in his personal struggle for liberty. Wu founded the Laogai Research Foundation, an organization committed to researching and raising awareness about the labor camp system and other human rights abuses in China.

Wu's unwavering commitment to speaking out against oppression led to his recognition with the prestigious Walter Judd Freedom Award by The Fund for American Studies. Join us to honor the beloved Harry Wu, reflecting on his invaluable and enduring lessons of human rights advocacy.

We sit down with Dr. Karen Drake, a Perinatologist who played a significant role in a notable moment in U.S. medical history. Dr. Drake, one of two African American doctors involved, reflects on her experience delivering the first surviving set of septuplets to an American couple in Des Moines, Iowa, back in 1997.

This interview marks Dr. Drake's first media appearance since the historic event, providing listeners with a candid look into her journey. From her thorough preparation to the role of faith in her work, Dr. Drake shares the challenges and successes encountered during the delivery of Bobbi McCaughey's seven healthy babies.

The event garnered widespread attention, both nationally and internationally, Dr. Karen Drake shares her insights and experiences, offering a grounded perspective on this extraordinary medical achievement.

Reflecting on the powerful civil rights anthem, "Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around" in this edition we examine an iconic moment in American history - the courageous march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama known as “Bloody Sunday.” As Civil Rights leader John Lewis and fellow marchers endeavor to cross the bridge they encounter brutal resistance from Alabama state troopers. 

Featured excerpts from former Georgia congressman John Lewis, who dedicated his life to the principles of equality and justice, which often led him to the front lines of protests, where he faced violence and arrest with unwavering resolve. Through firsthand accounts and archival footage we examine John Lewis's remarkable legacy and reflect on the profound impact of his leadership on the Civil Rights Movement. 

The Lakota Times blazed trails as the inaugural independently owned Native American newspaper in the United States. In this episode of Like It Is, we uncover the remarkable journey of Tim Giago, an esteemed American journalist and the visionary behind the Lakota Times. Alongside Doris Giago, Tim established this groundbreaking newspaper at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, where he was born and raised. Our dialogue traverses the vital theme of media ownership and control, shedding light on the vital role of indigenous voices in our newsrooms. 

In this episode of Like It Is, I sit down with Dr. John Calloway, a renowned multi-instrumentalist, composer, and educator with over 35 years of experience.

He introduces his latest project, "Buffalo Soldiers in the Philippine-American War: A Crisis of Conscience," an artistic exploration of the intersecting experiences of African American soldiers and Filipinos during this historical conflict. We delve into their shared struggles, aspirations, and sense of solidarity amidst the backdrop of U.S. imperialistic aggression, offering a poignant reflection on their stories and perspectives.

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