Why Race Matters Podcast

Black women make up just 6 percent of Wisconsin’s population but 21 percent of women in the state correctional system. Angela Fitzgerald talks with Carmella Glenn, coordinator of Madison-area Urban Ministry’s “Just Bakery.” They discuss the roadblocks and solutions for Black women leaving incarceration and returning home.  

What happens when society supports the art but not the communities responsible for creating it? Angela Fitzgerald talks with dance artist Papa-Kobina Brewoo. Together they discuss issues around cultural appropriation and how Black artists are underrepresented within the spaces they helped create.

The birth of a child is a time for celebration. However, for Black women, it comes with a higher risk. Angela Fitzgerald sits down with certified doula Tracey Russell to discuss problems and solutions when it comes to Black maternal health.

Food is essential. Where food comes from and who has access to it makes a difference in the health of a community. In this episode, Angela Fitzgerald sits down with Robert Pierce, a farmer who works to address food insecurity in Black neighborhoods.

Angela Fitzgerald talks to Rudy Bankston, a survivor of the school-to-prison pipeline. Rudy shares his story of being wrongly convicted and sentenced to life in prison at the age of 19.

Black voters are told their votes matter but after an election their concerns often go unheard. Angela Fitzgerald sits down with grassroots activist and coalition leader Tatiyana Benson to talk about civic engagement.

Angela Fitzgerald sits down with Myra McNair, a mental health professional, to talk about trauma and how images of Black death, racial trauma, and social media are leading to a public health crisis.

Host and producer Angela Fitzgerald introduces us to the concept and journey behind "Why Race Matters" in this teaser of the upcoming season. She’ll preview upcoming guests and explain the call to action she felt after the death of George Floyd.