The Counter-Narrative Show

In a discussion on "Black Men Vote: Trump & Hillary," two black men with differing political views shared their perspectives. Derek, a Hillary supporter, expressed growing disillusionment with the political process, citing the system's limitations and the showmanship of candidates like Trump. OJ, a Trump supporter, emphasized the importance of economic opportunity and criticized the outsourcing of jobs. He argued that Trump's focus on trade policies and job creation is crucial, despite Trump's flaws. Both agreed on the need for higher voter turnout and the potential issues with the voting process, highlighting the importance of local and state-level voting. In the conversation, Speaker 1 promotes their social media presence across various platforms, encouraging engagement through likes, shares, and subscriptions. Speaker 3, identified as OJ Mallory, shares their Facebook profile for contact, mentioning their initial paranoia about facial recognition but later embracing it due to frequent tagging. Speaker 2, Derek, provides a link to their artwork website, Derek of Baltimore, and reiterates the availability of their work on Facebook. The conversation ends with Speaker 1 expressing gratitude and hinting at future discussions on topics like capitalism versus socialism.

The discussion on healing Black families from the inside out featured Dr. Sharonda Davis, Donna Godfrey, Chasity Chandler, and Carl Laurie. Dr. Davis emphasized the importance of African American women owning their stories and destigmatizing therapy. Donna Godfrey highlighted the generational impact of violence and the need for open dialog. Chasity Chandler discussed the stigma around mental health and the role of black therapists. Carl Laurie stressed the interconnectedness of health aspects and the need for holistic approaches. Key coping strategies included acknowledging stress, asking for help, journaling, and practicing self-care.

Rasheem and Candace discuss the role of racialized social workers in policy development. Candace, a recent MSW graduate, emphasizes the importance of social workers' frontline experience in addressing institutional and structural racism. She highlights the disjuncture between Canadian social work education's focus on direct practice and the need for broader policy engagement. Candace shares her research findings, noting the underrepresentation of racialized people in public administration and the need for their voices in policy-making. She advocates for social workers to be proactive in policy development and suggests strategies for self-care and engagement, including writing petitions and advocating for systemic changes.

The Counter-Narrative show discussed misconceptions about polyamory, emphasizing that it's not just about sex but involves deep emotional connections and communication. Participants shared their experiences, highlighting the importance of clear communication, setting boundaries, and managing jealousy. They discussed the challenges of coming out as polyamorous, especially within black and queer communities. Resources recommended included Facebook groups, books like "More Than Two" and "The Ethical Slut," and platforms like Clubhouse for learning and support. The conversation underscored the need for radical honesty and emotional intelligence in polyamorous relationships.

The Counter-Narrative show explored the lack of diversity in the cannabis industry. Key statistics include 12% of Americans as active marijuana users, a 67% increase in cannabis sales in 2020, and a $61 billion US industry. Denise Vito, a cannabis epidemiologist, emphasized the health benefits of cannabis, particularly for HIV patients, and the need for better education. Tyrone Russell highlighted the high barriers to entry, such as $200,000 for licensing, and the importance of education and social equity. Shaggy Brown stressed the need for more knowledge in urban communities and the potential of plant medicine for healing. The discussion also touched on the impact of legalization and decriminalization on racial disparities and the criminal justice system. The discussion on the Counter-Narrative show focused on the lack of diversity in the cannabis industry. Speaker 3 highlighted the normalization of cannabis usage through hip hop culture. Speaker 2, a Latina woman, emphasized the need for education and the challenges in hiding cannabis evidence. S. Rasheem and Speaker 4 debated the importance of diversity, with Speaker 4 arguing for inclusivity across races. Dr. Videau stressed the importance of funding mechanisms to support diverse voices. The conversation also touched on the need for proper channels to prevent predatory investors and culture vultures from exploiting knowledgeable individuals.

The Counter-Narrative show featured Natoya and Joy, two black women entrepreneurs, discussing their businesses and challenges. Natoya's brand, Amazing Sophistication, is a footwear line inspired by her children's initials and her background in mental health. Joy's HR consulting firm, HR for the Culture, focuses on supporting black female entrepreneurs, highlighting the struggles of black-owned businesses, which average $24,000 annually. Both emphasized the importance of community, networking, and overcoming misconceptions about entrepreneurship. The pandemic impacted their businesses differently, with Natoya starting during the pandemic and Joy leveraging e-commerce growth. They shared strategies for building generational wealth and the significance of their work in the black community.

Rasheem hosts a discussion with Ali Hassan and Forus about their experiences as brown and foreign individuals in the U.S. Ali, originally from Rockville, Maryland, with roots in Hyderabad, India, discusses the challenges of assimilating into a predominantly white area and the importance of cultural appreciation. Forus, born in Lahore, Pakistan, shares his cultural shock upon moving to the U.S. and the benefits of learning multiple languages. Both emphasize the significance of their Muslim faith and the misconceptions surrounding it. They also discuss the impact of the current election on their communities and the importance of education and cultural understanding.

The discussion on race, politics, and social justice featured Vicky J, a beauty YouTuber and social justice advocate, and Carl, a minister and PhD student. They discussed Colin Kaepernick's national anthem protest, praising his strength and the widespread support he received. They also highlighted Beyoncé's album "Lemonade" as a significant cultural and social commentary. The conversation touched on the importance of holding entertainers accountable, the impact of the 2016 election on race relations, and the evolution of social justice from civil rights to human rights. Both guests emphasized the need for rehumanization and the role of diverse representation in media.

Brooklyn Taylor, a dating coach and matchmaker, discussed compatibility and choosing the right mate on the "Hers, Mine and Yours" show. He emphasized that compatibility is about finding a partner who complements you, not just sharing similar interests or backgrounds. He highlighted the importance of chemistry and the ability to handle situations together, such as dealing with family conflicts. Taylor noted that both experienced and inexperienced daters face challenges, with the latter often lacking relationship skills. He advised regular social interactions and kindness in uncoupling to maintain respect and future possibilities. The hosts also shared personal experiences and insights on dating in different cities.

Rasheem hosts Davon Love, Director of Public Policy for Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle (LBS), to discuss the transition from protests to policy. Davon, co-founder of LBS, traces his journey from policy debate to advocacy, emphasizing the need for African American leadership in policy-making. He highlights the insular nature of policy debates and the importance of community engagement. Davon critiques the current political climate in Maryland, particularly the role of the Democratic Party and the need for accountability from new leaders like Brandon Scott. He also discusses the Maryland Public Information Act, the Law Enforcement Officer Bill of Rights, and the potential for legalizing cannabis to benefit impacted communities.

Rasheem hosts a discussion on race, gender, and incarceration, featuring three black women with personal experiences of incarceration. They discuss the challenges of transitioning back into society, including employment, housing, and mental health support. Elizabeth, a drug and alcohol counselor, highlights the lack of mental health services and the need for comprehensive reentry programs. Tia, a community advocate, emphasizes the importance of changing one's mindset and having a supportive network. They also address the stigma and cultural mistrust in seeking mental health services within the black community. The conversation underscores the need for systemic changes to support returning citizens effectively.

The Counter-Narrative Show discussed white supremacy in nonprofit environments with Devon Love, Director of Public Policy at Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle. Love highlighted the pathologizing of black people, the marginalization of black methodologies, and the lack of black leadership in nonprofits. He criticized the dependency on white-led institutions and the performative allyship in anti-racism efforts. Love emphasized the need for black self-sufficiency and independent institutions. He also discussed the co-optation of movements and the role of ego starvation in perpetuating white supremacy within nonprofit sectors.

The Counter-Narrative show discussed black pathology and the nonprofit sector with Dayvon Love, Director of Public Policy for Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle. Love critiqued the nonprofit industrial complex, emphasizing the need for black autonomy and the marginalization of black-led methodologies. He highlighted the Moynihan Report's influence on policies like welfare work requirements and the problematic nature of programs like the Baraka School and Thread. Love also discussed the importance of building autonomous institutions and the need for rigorous training in black-centered methodologies, advocating for a shift in thought leadership and professional development.

The Counter-Narrative show discussed urban farming and food justice in Baltimore with experts including Mama Saray, Franco Mueller Paz, Ms. Harris, and Brother Lee Jordan. Key points included the definition of food sovereignty as controlling one's food system, combating food apartheid, and the importance of local urban farming. Mama Saray emphasized teaching cooking skills and organizing food giveaways. Franco highlighted the Gloria Richardson Solidarity Gardens, which emerged during COVID-19 to address food deserts. Ms. Harris discussed Strength to Love Farm's job opportunities for returning citizens. Black Yale Institute's initiatives include urban agriculture, political education, and food sovereignty organizing.

The Counter-Narrative Show explored the Strong Black Woman through a wellness lens, featuring Dr. Jeanette Wade, Dr. Parker, Dr. Alexander, and Dr. Giscombe. Dr. Wade discussed the Superwoman schema, highlighting its impact on diet and exercise trends. Dr. Parker emphasized the emotional toll on incarcerated women. Dr. Alexander focused on childhood obesity and the need for culturally tailored interventions. Dr. Giscombe examined stress-related disparities and the importance of mindfulness. The panel emphasized the need for diverse, supportive environments and interventions to address the unique health challenges faced by Black women.

The Counter-Narrative Show featured a discussion on the significance of Black artists, highlighting the diverse backgrounds and contributions of various artists. Marquette Shaw, a master instructor in West African dance, emphasized the importance of integrating art into education. Ty Coleman, a black queer gender performer, discussed the need for inclusive spaces for Black queer and trans folk. Asia Cobbs, founder of the Art Trap House, focused on providing platforms for Black artists. Marjani Meriwether, known for her clay work, highlighted the importance of self-love and cultural representation. The artists shared their experiences during the pandemic, emphasizing the role of art in mental health and community support. The Counter-Narrative show episode focused on the significance of Black artists and their contributions to culture. Keela Evans introduced her new business, "The Curator of Baltimore," offering customized hand-painted clothing and other art forms. Jasmine Manning announced a virtual sipping paint event on June 3. The discussion highlighted the importance of self-celebration and the impact of art on lives. Upcoming events include "Black in Space" and the next Counter-Narrative show on May 30, featuring Thomas James, Angela (an art archivist), and Alicia (Executive Director of Afro House). The session concluded with expressions of gratitude and anticipation for future collaborations.

The Counter-Narrative Show episode "Black Women Write" featured a panel of black women authors discussing their journeys and the significance of their work. Teresa Stovall shared her experiences with "Love Addicted" and "Why Did He Break Up with Me?" Deborah M. Ricks emphasized the importance of black women telling their own stories and the impact of her memoir "World Girl." Brianna highlighted the therapeutic benefits of journaling and her collection of short stories. Angela discussed the historical context of black creative genius and the need for critical commentary. The panel underscored the importance of black women's narratives and encouraged aspiring writers to persist in their craft.

The Counter-Narrative show discussed grassroots community organizing with experts Namdi Lumumba, Dr. Kevin Daniels, and Dr. Johnny Bailey. Namdi Lumumba highlighted his work with the Ujima People's Progress Party and mutual aid efforts during COVID-19. Dr. Daniels emphasized the importance of faith leaders understanding and addressing community needs, citing historical figures like Richard Allen and Denmark Vesey. Dr. Bailey discussed the radicalism of past black movements and the need for political education. The conversation underscored the necessity of coalition building, allyship, and the role of faith in contemporary organizing efforts.

The Counter-Narrative show discussed social determinants of health among marginalized populations with Dr. Jeanette Wade, a black feminist medical sociologist. Dr. Wade highlighted the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, citing examples like fast food density and income disparities. She emphasized the importance of centering race and gender in health studies, noting that black women face significant health disparities due to systemic racism and gender oppression. Dr. Wade's research on the "Superwoman schema" revealed that black women often prioritize others' needs over their own, leading to poor health behaviors. She advocated for community-based interventions and called for white allies to address racial biases in healthcare.

The Counter-Narrative show discussed efforts to close the digital divide in Baltimore. Franca highlighted the inequities in internet connectivity, noting that only 50% of Black and Latino students have broadband access, compared to 70% of whites. Adam's organization, Wave, aims to provide free internet to 1000 families by next July. Zeke emphasized the need for Comcast to offer free internet and hotspots, especially during the pandemic. The Baltimore Teachers Union is organizing a caravan on August 3 to demand better internet speeds and accessibility. The discussion underscored the critical role of internet access in education and the need for corporate responsibility.