Trey's Table

Trey’s Table Episode 255: Race, Regulation, and Sex Work.


Episode 255: Race, Racism, and the Regulation of Prostitution in *Empire of Purity* by Eva Payne**

In this week’s episode of *Trey’s Table*, we dive into Eva Payne’s thought-provoking book, *Empire of Purity*, which examines how race and racism have shaped U.S. policies surrounding the regulation of prostitution. This book offers a critical lens through which we can understand the intersections of race, gender, and power in American history.

The Historical Context
Prostitution in the United States has long been a site of moral, social, and political contention. However, as Payne reveals, the regulation of prostitution was not just about morality or public health—it was deeply intertwined with racial hierarchies and systemic racism. From the late 19th century onward, laws and policies targeting prostitution often disproportionately affected women of color, particularly Black and immigrant women.

Payne’s work highlights how these policies were framed as efforts to maintain "purity" and social order, but in reality, they reinforced racial stereotypes and perpetuated inequality. For example, Black women were often depicted as hypersexual and immoral, stereotypes that justified their over-policing and marginalization under these laws.

Race and the Moral Panic
One of the key themes in *Empire of Purity* is the role of moral panics in shaping public policy. Payne argues that fears about racial mixing and the perceived threat to white supremacy were central to the push for regulating prostitution. These fears were often couched in the language of public health and morality, but they served to control and criminalize communities of color.

For instance, during the Progressive Era, anti-prostitution campaigns were often tied to broader efforts to "clean up" cities and enforce racial segregation. Black women, already vulnerable due to systemic racism and economic inequality, were disproportionately targeted by these campaigns.

The Legacy of These Policies
Payne’s book also explores the long-term consequences of these racially biased policies. The criminalization of prostitution has had lasting impacts on communities of color, contributing to mass incarceration and the stigmatization of Black and Brown women. Even today, the echoes of these policies can be seen in the ways that sex work is policed and regulated.

By uncovering this history, *Empire of Purity* challenges us to rethink how we understand the intersections of race, gender, and power in American society. It also raises important questions about how we can address the legacy of these policies and work toward a more just and equitable future.

Why This Matters
Understanding the racial dimensions of prostitution regulation is crucial for grappling with the broader history of systemic racism in the United States. Payne’s work reminds us that policies are never neutral—they are shaped by the social and cultural contexts in which they arise. By examining these histories, we can better understand the roots of contemporary inequalities and work to dismantle them.

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Call to Action
If you haven’t already, be sure to listen to Episode 255 of *Trey’s Table* for a deeper discussion of *Empire of Purity* and its implications. Let us know your thoughts on how race and racism have shaped U.S. policies—both historically and today. Share your insights in the comments or on social media using the hashtag #TreysTable.

Trey’s Table Episode 254: A Beneficiary of DEI


"Welcome back to *Trey’s Table*, the podcast where we explore African American history, politics, and culture. I’m your host, Trey Smith, and today we’re diving into a topic that’s close to the heart of our nation’s history and future: the state of diversity in farming in the United States, with a particular focus on African American farmers.

Farming is the backbone of our society, yet the story of who owns and works the land is deeply intertwined with issues of race, equity, and justice. From the days of slavery to the present, African American farmers have played a crucial role in shaping American agriculture, but their journey has been marked by systemic challenges and resilience.

In this episode, we’ll explore the history of African American farmers, the obstacles they’ve faced, and the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable agricultural system. So, grab a seat at the table, and let’s get into it.

Trey’s Table Episode 253: Sun City




**🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️**
**Episode 253: Sun City & the Anthem That Shook Apartheid**

This week on *Trey’s Table*, we’re diving into the story of **Sun City**—the luxury resort in South Africa that became a symbol of apartheid’s hypocrisy. Built during the height of apartheid, Sun City was a playground for the rich and famous, but it also became a battleground for justice.

In this episode, we explore how **Little Steven** and **Artists United Against Apartheid** created the iconic protest song *“Sun City”*—a powerful anthem that united over 50 artists, from Bruce Springsteen to Run-D.M.C., in the fight against apartheid. This song wasn’t just music; it was a movement. It brought global attention to the cultural boycott and helped isolate the apartheid regime on the world stage.

Join me as we unpack:
✨ The history of Sun City and its role in apartheid propaganda
✨ The cultural boycott that challenged artists to take a stand
✨ The legacy of *“Sun City”* and its impact on the anti-apartheid movement

This is a story of art, activism, and the power of collective action. Tune in to hear how a song helped change the world.

🎧 **Listen now** wherever you get your podcasts!
📲 Share this post and tag a friend who loves history, music, or activism.

#TreysTable #AfricanAmericanHistory #SunCity #Apartheid #LittleSteven #ProtestMusic #BlackHistory #Podcast #MusicHistory #Activism

Trey’s Table Episode 252: The Battle of Tuskegee

**Instagram/Threads Post:**

🎙️ *New Episode Alert!* 🎙️
In Episode 252 of *Trey’s Table*, we dive into a powerful moment in African-American history: the Ku Klux Klan’s attempted attack on Tuskegee Veterans Hospital in 1923. 🏥

This hospital was a beacon of hope for Black veterans, but the Klan saw it as a threat. They marched, burned crosses, and plotted violence to stop Black medical professionals from serving their own community. But the Black community fought back—armed with courage and determination, they stood their ground and won. 💪

This story is about resilience, resistance, and the fight for equity in healthcare. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to go.

Tune in to *Trey’s Table* to hear the full story. Link in bio! 🔗

#TreysTable #TuskegeeVeteransHospital #KKK #AfricanAmericanHistory #CivilRights #HealthcareEquity #Podcast

Trey’s Table Episode 251: The Cobra Effect

**Blog Post: Trey’s Table Episode 251 – Eric Adams and the Trump Administration: A Tale of Extortion and Political Leverage**

*By Trey Smith, Host and Producer of Trey’s Table*

In the latest episode of *Trey’s Table* (Episode 251), we dive into one of the most explosive political dramas of our time: the extortion of New York City Mayor Eric Adams by the Trump administration. This story is not just about corruption—it’s about power, leverage, and the erosion of justice in American politics.

### The Backstory: Eric Adams and the DOJ’s Controversial Dismissal
Mayor Eric Adams, once a rising star in Democratic politics, found himself at the center of a federal corruption case in September 2024. He was indicted on charges of bribery, wire fraud, and accepting illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals, particularly Turkish officials. The case was set to go to trial in April 2025, but everything changed when President Donald Trump’s Justice Department stepped in.

In February 2025, acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove ordered federal prosecutors to dismiss the case against Adams, citing the mayor’s role in assisting the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown as a reason. This move sparked a wave of resignations among prosecutors, who decried the decision as a blatant quid pro quo.

### The Quid Pro Quo: A Mayor Held Hostage
The Trump administration’s directive to drop the charges was not based on the strength of the evidence or legal merit but on Adams’ willingness to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. This quid pro quo was laid bare when Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, publicly stated that Adams would face consequences if he didn’t deliver on their agreement.

In Episode 251, we explore how this arrangement has left Adams politically compromised. By aligning himself with Trump, Adams has alienated his base in New York City, where the mayor’s approval ratings are already at historic lows. The episode also examines the broader implications of this deal for democracy and the rule of law.

### The Resignations: A Crisis of Conscience
The fallout from the DOJ’s decision was swift and dramatic. Seven federal prosecutors resigned in protest, refusing to carry out what they saw as a politically motivated dismissal. Among them was Danielle Sassoon, the acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, who penned a scathing resignation letter condemning the administration’s actions.

These resignations highlight the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by career public servants in an era of politicized justice. In the episode, we discuss how these events echo the “Saturday Night Massacre” of the Watergate era, raising questions about the integrity of the Justice Department under Trump.

### What’s Next for Eric Adams?
While Adams may have escaped prosecution for now, his political future remains uncertain. The case against him was dismissed “without prejudice,” meaning it could be revived after the 2025 mayoral election. This leaves Adams in a precarious position, beholden to the Trump administration and vulnerable to renewed charges if he steps out of line.

In Episode 251, we also explore the potential long-term consequences for New York City. With Adams’ leadership compromised, the city faces challenges in addressing critical issues like immigration, public safety, and housing. The episode features insights from political analysts, legal experts, and community leaders who weigh in on what this means for the future of New York.

### Join the Conversation
This episode of *Trey’s Table* is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of politics, justice, and African-American leadership. We unpack the complexities of the Adams-Trump saga and its implications for our democracy.

Tune in to Episode 251 of *Trey’s Table* on your favorite podcast platform, and let’s keep the conversation going. Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #TreysTable and tag us @TrevsTable.

Because when it comes to holding power accountable, silence is not an option.

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*Trey’s Table* is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

#TreysTable #EricAdams #TrumpAdministration #PoliticalCorruption #AfricanAmericanHistory #Podcast

https://youtu.be/mHrLx3jGH_c?s...

Trey’s Table Episode 250: The Petition of “Ned” Griffin

The Courage of Ned Griffin: A Revolutionary Fight for Freedom

In the midst of the American Revolution, Ned Griffin, an enslaved man from North Carolina, made a bold choice: he agreed to fight in the war in exchange for his freedom. His enslaver, William Kitchen, promised him emancipation if he served as a substitute in the Continental Army. Ned fought bravely in battles like Guilford Courthouse, but when he returned, Kitchen betrayed him, selling him to another enslaver.

Refusing to accept this injustice, Ned petitioned the North Carolina legislature in 1784. His petition detailed his service and the broken promise of freedom. The General Assembly listened, passing an act to emancipate him, declaring him “forever delivered and discharged from the yoke of slavery.”

Ned’s story is one of resilience and determination. After gaining his freedom, he lived as a free man of color, purchased land, and built a life for himself. His fight reminds us that the struggle for freedom and equality has deep roots in American history.

Ned Griffin’s legacy is a testament to the courage of those who dared to challenge the system and demand their rights. His story is not just history—it’s inspiration.

#NedGriffin #BlackHistory #RevolutionaryWar #FreedomFighters #AfricanAmericanHistory #TrevsTable

RFK Jr. has some weird ideas that will impact African Americans.

In this episode, I answer a question from a listener, which gives me an opportunity to talk about curiosity.

Trey’s Table Episode 247: Edward Nathaniel Harleston



**Celebrating Black Excellence in Journalism: Edward Nathaniel Harleston**

On the latest episode of *Trey’s Table* (Episode 247), we dive into the extraordinary life and legacy of Edward Nathaniel Harleston—a trailblazing African-American poet, journalist, and newspaper publisher who helped shape the landscape of Black journalism in America.

Harleston was a visionary who understood the power of the written word. Through his work, he helped create one of the most influential African-American newspapers of all time, a publication that not only informed but also inspired and uplifted the Black community. His newspaper became a beacon of Black excellence, showcasing the brilliance, resilience, and creativity of African-Americans in every field.

In this episode, we explore:
✨ How Harleston’s poetry and journalism intersected to amplify Black voices.
✨ The challenges he faced as a Black publisher in a segregated America.
✨ The lasting impact of his newspaper, which set a standard for excellence in journalism and community advocacy.

Harleston’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the written word. His legacy reminds us that Black excellence has always been a force to be reckoned with—even in the face of adversity.

Tune in to Episode 247 of *Trey’s Table* to learn more about this unsung hero of Black history. Available now on all major podcast platforms.

https://newpittsburghcourier.c...

https://youtu.be/dkQ-UFrNRds?s...

https://books.google.com/books...

📌 **Link in bio to listen!**
📌 **Tag a friend who loves history and journalism!**

#TreysTable #BlackHistory #BlackExcellence #Journalism #AfricanAmericanHistory #Podcast #BlackVoices #BlackCreators #Inspiration

Trey’s Table Episode 246: Mission Impossible

✨ **Did you know about Robert Smalls?** ✨

In 1862, an enslaved man named Robert Smalls pulled off one of the most daring escapes of the Civil War. He commandeered a Confederate naval ship, sailed it past enemy lines, and delivered it—and his freedom—to the Union Navy. 🚢⚓

But that’s not all. Smalls went on to become a Union hero, a U.S. Congressman, and a champion for civil rights. His story is one of courage, strategy, and an unbreakable spirit.

This week on *Trey’s Table*, we’re diving into the incredible life and legacy of Robert Smalls. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this one.

🎧 **Listen now** https://open.spotify.com/show/...
💬 **What other unsung heroes should we feature? Let me know below!**

#BlackHistory #CivilWarHistory #RobertSmalls #TreysTable #Podcast #AfricanAmericanHistory #UnsungHeroes