In the latest episode L. Joy dives into the intense political conflicts occurring on college campuses across the country. Joined at the front of the class by Kirk Karaza and John Marcus, hosts of NPR's 'College Uncovered' podcast, they discuss protests demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, battles over diversity and inclusion programs, and issues surrounding free speech. The conversation explores the historical context of campus protests, the impact of today's diverse student population, the political climate's influence on higher education, and the importance of civil discourse. Tune in for a thorough examination of how these issues shape the educational experience and broader society.

With election day fast approaching, L. Joy opens up a challenging conversation—what to do when none of the candidates for an elected office inspires you or align perfectly with your views. Last week’s episode addressed voter apathy and how to respond to disengaged voters. This week, L. Joy shifts focus to a dilemma that many voters face: how to engage in an election when none of the candidates seem to represent your issues or values fully. Dr. Michelle Taylor, also known as Dr. Feminista Jones, comes back to the front of the class for this conversation. Then, it’s time for the Arts and Activism segment powered by AKILA WORKSONGS. April R. Silver brings Chief Ayanda Clarke to the front of the class.

This episode of Sunday Civics, L. Joy tackles voter apathy. It’s an issue that arises every election season but is relevant year-round. She addresses common myths that fuel political disengagement and explains why participation in elections at all levels is crucial. Emphasizing that while voter turnout is higher during presidential elections, it significantly drops during midterms and local elections, leaving critical decisions to a small, active group, L. Joy encourages listeners to combat this by making a voting plan and engaging with non-voters, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and empowering people to vote. Then April R. Silver brings Dr. Tameka Hobbs to the front of the class for the Arts and Activism segment powered by AKILA WORKSONGS.

The “Get Vote Ready: A Journal for the Empowered Voter” is here! The journal is designed as a comprehensive guide to help voters stay informed, organized, and empowered not just for the current election, but for future elections as well. It covers everything from confirming voter registration and learning about candidates to creating personalized voting plans and reflecting on the election experience.

With early voting starting soon in several states, she encourages listeners to develop a voting plan tailored to their needs—whether voting by mail, early in-person, or on election day. L. Joy emphasizes the importance of researching state-specific voting rules to avoid last-minute issues and voter suppression challenges. She’s also discussing the historic School Board elections in Chicago and brings journalist Samantha Smylie to the front of the class for that conversation. Then L. Joy introduces the inaugural Arts and Activism segment powered by Akila WORKSONGS, April R. Silver brings Grammy-winning artist and candidate in Chicago’s school board elections, Rhymefest to the front of the class.

As we look ahead to the upcoming election cycle, it’s clear that now, more than ever, civic engagement is crucial. In this episode L. Joy focuses on key issues impacting families during the election cycle. Guests at the front of the class include Monifa Bandele, COO and Senior Vice President of Maternal Justice Campaigns at MomsRising Together, and Ailen Arreaza, Executive Director of Parents Together.

This episode of #SundayCivics is a powerful reminder of the importance of civic participation in the ongoing fight for justice and equality. L. Joy’s lesson is all about recognizing the power we hold at every level of government and how vital issues like reproductive freedom are motivating people to get out and vote. For this conversation, she brings Mini Timmaraju, President and CEO of Reproductive Freedom for All, to the front of the class. Then L. Joy introduces her new segment Arts and Activism, bringing founder and CEO of Akila WORKSONGS to the front of the class to discuss the powerful role that art plays in social justice and political movements. But first, L. Joy gives us this week’s Do Now- get to know your state legislature.

L. Joy shares positive news, celebrating a legal victory by the Brooklyn NAACP, which successfully challenged New York's line-warming ban on constitutional grounds. She emphasizes the importance of staying engaged despite negative polls or disillusionment, highlighting her commitment to boosting voter turnout in New York, battleground state Pennsylvania, and beyond. L. Joy also calls out the hypocrisy of some politicians who claim to support Black families while failing to back policies that actually benefit them. She gives us our Do Now, then brings Patti Russo, Executive Director of The Campaign School at Yale to the front of the class to discuss how the organization prepares women to run for office.

L. Joy begins class by discussing the consistent voter turnout of women in elections, emphasizing their significant role in the electorate. She introduces the topic of the episode—women in politics and for this discussion, L. Joy brings researchers Kelly Dittmar and Kira Sanbonmatsu from the Center for American Women in Politics at Rutgers University to the front of the class to delve deeper into the impact of women in political life.

L. Joy brings Leah Goodridge, an award-winning tenant's rights attorney and a New York City Planning Commissioner, to the front of the class to talk about the complexities of housing justice and the narratives that shape our understanding of renters, landlords, owners, and the broader housing crisis. But first L. Joy tackled a pressing issue that's been on the minds of many: the recent comments by rapper Cardi B about her disillusionment with voting in the upcoming presidential election. While celebrities like Cardi B have a significant platform and can influence public opinion, L. Joy emphasizes the need for consistent engagement, not just with celebrities, but with all voters who feel disconnected from the political process.