Episode 23 begins with a raunchy smell and a diaper change. Aren’t you glad this is a strictly audio medium and not smell-o-vision? Like the poop in Kori’s son’s diaper, we discuss the less-than-fragrant choices at the top of the ticket this November. That said, Laura is encouraged by the ever-so-slight, but significant movement she’s seen among U.S. leaders on Gaza. We have more power than we realize! Influencing the algorithm, having courageous conversations, voting uncommitted - it’s sending a message loud and clear!

Laura brings up the concept of the Overton Window and how it shifts over time due to social forces. Kori shares how the war on Gaza is illuminating colonial power and oppression all over the globe in new and powerful ways for people. More and more folks are realizing the connectedness in these issues - and how our liberation is tied to the liberation of everyone around the world. Keith reminds us about the stark nature of our choices at the top of the ticket - and how tr*mp would be worse for the Palestinians - and women, and people of color, and democracy, and and and. Kori reminds us about the importance of every elected office - up and down the ballot - and not to get overly fixated or frustrated by just the presidency.  The House and Senate control the budget priorities. The Senate confirms judges and cabinet members. Heck, local school boards are deciding what books your children can read! Remember, if your vote didn’t matter, folks with power wouldn’t work so hard to disenfranchise others.

Laura confesses her naivety, years ago, when she thought Republicans would play by the rules and the party would lose the majority and therefore the power, ushering in a new era of more progressive thinking.  Ha! Isn’t she precious?  People of color have long known that systems are erected purposely to keep power and create “others.” Evil shapeshifts.

While we believe the Democratic party is more likely to listen to the needs of the people out here, Kori wants to hear more of a positive vision for the future from leaders. Not just - “at least we’re not as bad as the other guy.” I mean if only leaders could get as excited and work together for health care as they do about banning Tik Tok… Just saying!

Laura just has to sneak in some Kate Middleton talk, and while we wish her well as she focuses on her health, how does the monarchy make sense anymore?? Get yourself out of this messed up family! There is nothing special about your bloodline.  You are stuck in a gilded cage so citizens can gawk at you.  Blech!  That said, I’m sure a presidential challenger wouldn’t mind setting up his dynasty here in the U.S. so we have to be vigilant, use our voices, and push for representation that values humanity!

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