Basic Black

Basic Black discusses the upcoming Super Tuesday primaries/caucuses and the presidential election. While the 2024 election cycle is underway, it is hard to tell. Will voters turn out, given voter fatigue and low enthusiasm? Questions about Biden’s age (Trump’s too), whether Biden can hold on to Black and young voters are a growing concern.  Plus, many people believe the presidential candidates have already been decided, so why bother to vote. How can the candidates and political parties energize Black and Brown voters and why voting matters?Panelists:Renée Graham, Associate Editor, Opinion Columnist, and author of the weekly newsletter, Outtakes, The Boston Globe.Diana Hwang, founder and executive director of The Asian American Women’s Political Initiative (AAWPI).Phillip Martin, Sr. Investigative Reporter, GBH News Center for Investigative Reporting.State Senator Liz Miranda, representing the Massachusetts Senate's 2nd Suffolk district.Tanisha Sullivan hosts.

The new GBH News podcast, What is Owed?, a 7-part podcast examines reparations in Boston, nationally and internationally.  The first episode, When a City Tries to Heal Itself was recently released.Panelists:Jerome Campbell, senior producer for the GBH News podcast, "What Is Owed?"Saraya Wintersmith, politics reporter for GBH News, and host of the new podcast, "What Is Owed?"Kellie Carter Jackson, Chair of the Africana Studies Department at Wellesley College, and author of, "Force and Freedom: Black Abolitionists and the Politics of Violence."George “Chip” Greenidge, member of the Boston Task Force on Reparations and the Founder and Director of Greatest MINDS.Phillip Martin hosts.

Black dolls have been around since the 1800’s, created in different shapes, sizes and styles, but Black or multiethnic dolls were hard to come by. Over the years finding a Black or multicultural doll has improved.  Children of color seeing and having a doll that looks like them in skin tone and hair texture is empowering and celebratory, as dolls can aid in a child’s development, their ability to imagine and comprehend their individuality. Dolls can also offer a reflection or point of view in society. The well-known doll study by Kenneth and Mamie Clark was pivotal during the Brown v. Board of Education case. In this episode celebrating Black History Month, this episode discusses the history of dolls, dollmakers, dolls in pop culture, beauty, race, gender and identity. Kristen L. Pope hosts.Panelists:Widline Pyrame, Founder and CEO of Fusion Dolls.Debra Britt, Founder and Executive Director of the National Black Doll Museum of History & Culture in North Attleborough, Mass.Lisa Simmons, Artistic Executive Director of the Roxbury International Film Festival.Dr. Tahirah Abdullah-Swain, Associate Professor of Psychology, UMass Boston.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this week on Basic Black, we bring together survivors and experts to discuss   Included in this episode is a piece by host Crystal Haynes getting a follow up mammogram.  According to the American Cancer Society, Black women are about 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women.  They are often diagnosed with a more aggressive form of the disease and sometimes at a younger age. Crystal Haynes hosts.Panelists:Dr. Naomi Ko, Associate Professor, Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, AND Medical Oncologist at Boston Medical CenterNekia Clark, Director of Patient Services and Outreach at the Ellie Fund AND Co-Chair of the Boston Breast Equity Coalition...Nekia is also a breast cancer survivor.Jani Raynor, Patient living with breast cancer AND a former patient of the Ellie Fund.Karen Burns White, Deputy Associate Director, Initiative to Eliminate Cancer Disparities, Center for Cancer Equity and Engagement at Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center.

Nov. 17Basic Black: Phillis in BostonThere is a new play in Boston about poet, writer and author Phillis Wheatley. Phillis in Boston centers around Wheatley returning to Boston from London in 1773, after her getting her book published.  However, copies of her book are stuck on the Dartmouth--the ship that also transported tea from Britain embroiled in the Boston Tea Party conflict.  The play and our episode highlight other moments of Wheatley’s life including her relationship with her enslaver, Susanna Wheatley.  Performances of Phillis in Boston are at the historic Old South Meeting House. It's the same gathering place where Wheatley was a congregant.  Later in the program, we also feature a series of banners in Roxbury and Dorchester that honor other notable Black women including Marita Rivero, GBH’s former Vice President and General Manager. Panelists:Adeola ‘Ade’ Solanke, Playwright of, "Phillis in Boston" and founder and director of Spora Stories.Kyera Singleton, Executive Director of the Royall House and Slave Quarters in Medford.Joshua Olumide, Actor who plays Prince Hall.Adreyanua Jean-Louis, Actor, who plays Phillis Wheatley.Kristen Pope hosts. 

Nov. 10Basic Black: Hispanic and Latin CultureThere are more than 800,000 Latinos who call Massachusetts their home. Some reports estimate the number is much higher.  But, as we recognize the history and contributions in art, music, food, and entrepreneurship, we cannot overlook on going socioeconomic issues – from housing to putting food on the table for their families.  Friday’s episode will discuss the issues, concerns, and opportunities in the Hispanic and Latino community.Panelists:Dr. Celina Miranda, Executive Director of the Hyde Square Task Force.Dr. Lorna Rivera, Director of the Mauricio Gastón Institute for Latino Community Development & Public Policy at U-Mass Boston.Beyazmin Jimenez, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Culture at Northeastern University.Betty Francisco, C-E-O of Boston Impact Initiative AND Co-Founder of Amplify Latin X.Kristen Pope hosts.

Nov. 3Basic Black:  Free Community College and Black Americans' Trust in the NewsThis week, a recent survey conducted by the PEW Research Center, found that Black Americans said there are a range of issues on how the media reports stories about Black people, and more care is needed.  We’ll have a panelist joining us remotely at the top of the episode to discuss some of the findings from the report. Then, a discussion about Free Community College. About 33 states offer free tuition. Now in Massachusetts, residents, 25 and older without a degree can apply to attend community college for free, through Mass Re-Connect, a program Gov. Healey launched. The panelists discuss how the program can help change the economic outlook for many students of color of the newly popular program.Panelists:Ronald Mitchell co-owner, editor and publisher, The Bay State Banner (remote)Jackie Jenkins Scott, Interim President, Roxbury Community CollegePatrick Tutwiler, Ph.D., Massachusetts Secretary of EducationPam Eddinger, Ph.D., President, Bunker Hill Community College. She is also a member of the GBH board.Nehemie Desulme, Roxbury Community College student currently in the Mass Re-Connect program.Tanisha Sullivan hosts.

October 20Memorable MomentsThis episode will bring together past guests to discuss memorable and pivotal episodes that had an impact on Black, Indigenous and people of color, here in Boston and around the world. It is also long-time moderator, Callie Crossley’s last show permanently hosting the program.People will still be able to see and hear Callie on her radio program, Under the Radar, GBH News and  the new radio program, The Culture Show.Panelists:Renée Graham, Associate Editor and Opinion Columnist, The Boston Globe’s op-ed page.Kim McLarin, Professor and Interim Dean, Graduate and Professional Studies at Emerson College.Phillip Martin, Senior Investigative Reporter, GBH News Center for Investigative Reporting.Callie Crossley hosts.

Basic Black at the NAACP National ConventionThe discussion was about affirmative action and student loan debt.This discussion took place on July 28th, 2023 at the NAACP National Convention in Boston.Panelists:Renee Graham, Associate Editor and Columnist at The Boston Globe.Traci Griffith, Director of the Racial Justice Program for the A-C-L-U of Massachusetts.Dr. Lynn Perry Wooten, President of Simmons University. Dr. Wooten is also a member of the GBH board.Phillip Martin, Senior Investigative Reporter for GBH News.Tanisha Sullivan, Esq, President of NAACP Boston Branch hosts.

Across the country, communities of color continue to face the pressures of debt and deal with its impact on their mental health and livelihood. For many, debt can feel insurmountable as the costs of living, housing, and food continue to rise, sometimes it doesn't seem clear how to get out of debt.This week on Basic Black at the Boston Public Library, our discussion is about the significant impact of credit card and other types of debt, plus hear some methods to help reduce debt.Panelists:William Watkins, Vice President of Digital Strategy and Partnerships, Urban League of Eastern MassachusettsSabrina Antoine Correia, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at JPMorgan & ChaseParis Alston, co-host of Morning Edition GBH 89.7 hosts

Basic Black at the BPL:  Skin CancerAug 9, 2023As the summer heats up, it's important to remind everyone about skin safety, especially for people of color. According to research, there has been an increase in melanoma rates for Black and Brown skin complexions, and for those with higher melanin, they are also developing skin cancer at later stages, sometimes with a lower chance of survival rate.This week on Basic Black at the Boston Public Library, a discussion about skin cancer and melanoma awareness for communities of color.Panelists:Dr. Ali Al-Haseni, board-certified dermatologist, The Dermatology Institute of BostonAkou Diabakhate, licensed aesthetician, founder of Bold Skin BabeParis Alston hosts

Basic Black: March on Washington and New Bay state Banner OwnersOur show on Friday we will recognize the upcoming 60th anniversary of the March on Washington and the new owners of the Bay State Banner.  In many ways the Bay State Banner may have not happened if it wasn’t for the March on Washington.  The March for Freedom, Civil Rights and jobs along with the passage of 1964 Civil Right Act, inspired editor and publisher Melvin Miller to start the Banner, covering local and national stories affecting Boston’s African American community.  Now the torch has been passed to two new Black owners of the Bay State Banner, and we’ll learn what they have in store for the 58-year-old newspaper.Panelists:Ronald Mitchell, Co-Owner, Editor and Publisher, Bay State Banner.Glynn Lloyd, Executive Director, Mill Cities Community Investments, lead investor for the Bay State BannerAndré Stark, Co-Owner and C-O-O, Bay State Banner.Callie Crossley hosts.

The Economic Growth of Seaport Boston.We are on location at Grace by Nia, a new Black-owned supper club in Boston’s Seaport District. From what was a thousand acres of scrubby vacant land and parking lots, the seaport district has developed into a sparkling prime location for retail, housing, and entertainment. But businesses of color have struggled to gain a foothold in the area the Boston Globe’s spotlight team once described as, a “brand new Boston, even whiter than the old.” that was six years ago—what’s changed? And will the future bring more diversity?Nia Grace Owner, Grace by Nia AND board member, Meet Boston.Corean Reynolds, Director of Nightlife Economy, City of Boston.and Richard Taylor, Managing Director, Nubian Square Development, LLC AND Chairman, Taylor Smith Group; part of the joint venture development of the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport. Welcome to you all.

Basic Black: Rachael Rollins and Haitian Heritage MonthAt the top of the show, we will discuss the resignation of Mass. US Attorney Rachael Rollins.  Then, a conversation about Haitian Heritage month – the significance of the celebration, what it means for the third largest Haitian population in the U.S. living here in Massachusetts, as well as issues that plague the country---from weather disasters, the President Moïse’s assassination in his home to the number of Haitian immigrants finding their way to Boston.Rahsaan Hall, Principal, Rahsaan Hall Consulting AND former Director, Racial Justice Program, ACLU of Massachusetts.Rev. Dieufort J. Fleurissaint, President & Executive Director, True Alliance Center, Inc.; AND Chair, Haitian Americans United, Inc.Marie St. Fleur, Principal, St. Fleur Communications AND former State Representative, 5th Suffolk District, she was the first Haitian immigrant to hold public office in Massachusetts.Alix Cantave, PhD., Senior Program Officer, W.K. Kellogg Foundation. He is a former Associate Director, William Trotter Institute at UMass BostonCallie Crossley Hosts.

5/12 BLACK THEATREBlack Theatre is having more than a “moment.”  On the stage, more actors and artists of color are presenting outstanding work and stories about African American life.  AND more plays.  It’s a much different story from the early days of the pandemic when theatre shut down. The protest movement following the murder of George Floyd convinced theatre owners to adopt equity initiatives and opportunities for diverse artists of color. As we enjoy the range of our stories being told on the stages here in Boston, where is Black theatre headed, who is coming to watch and how will building community relationships help sustain the artform?Dawn Meredith Simmons, Co-Founder and Co-Producing Artistic Director, The Front Porch Arts CollectiveKristen Greenidge, Playwright and Associate Professor, Boston University AND Artist-in-Residence, Company One Theater.Lyndsay Allyn Cox, Producing Director, The Huntington Theatre Company.Olawumi Akinwumi Deputy Director-Programs, ArtsBoston AND Founder, AfroDesiaCity.Philip Martin, Sr. Investigative Reporter, GBH News Center for Investigative Reporting hosts.

Finding an affordable home is a challenge in Greater Boston and in many parts of the country. Residents are feeling the pinch of the high cost of housing. In Greater Boston, there are affordable housing lotteries available for people looking to apply. While the number of apartments and homes are limited, what are the highs and lows of applying to a housing lottery?Linda Warren Cato, a financial analyst and the home buyer educator with Financial Education Associates.Tayla Andre, realtor, Thumbprint Realty.Renee Taylor, Economic Opportunity Director, Somerville Community Corporation. She oversees their First Time Homebuyers and Financial Literacy Programs.Sabrina Antoine Correia, Vice President, Corporate Responsibility, Chase Bank.Paris Alston hosts.

More artists of color are showcasing their talents and inspiration from the African diaspora via concert music. Castle of Our Skins is a Boston-based collective of musicians of color, performing concert/chamber music. On Basic Black, the quartet played two pieces from their album, Homage. The pieces are written by the late Frederic C. Tillis, a composer, jazz saxophonist, poet, and Professor and UMass Amherst.The audience will witness a reimagined form of concert music that will broaden their perspective of the music category.Panelists:Ashleigh Gordon, Artistic and Executive Dir., Castle of Our Skins. She is also a member of the quartet.Members of the quartetGabriela Díaz, Violinist, Castle of Our SkinsMatthew Vera, Violinist, Castle of Our SkinsFrancesca McNeeley Cellist, Castle of Our SkinsParis Alston hosts.

CHILDREN OF COLOR AND AUTISMApril is Autism Awareness Month.A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention saw an increase in the number of children of color diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or ASD.  Experts suggest the rise of children of color with autism stem from increased awareness, more screenings, and less stigma around ASD. Historically children of color have been diagnosed in later years than white children which delays their development.  Our panelist discusses the issues around ASD, the impact on children and the family.Panelists:Dr. Karen Spencer MD, MS, MPH, Assistant, Department of Neurology at Boston Children’s Hospital**,** Instructor of Neurology, Harvard Medical SchoolCynthia Laine, Founder, Black Autism CoalitionJay Wilson, Doctoral Student, Clinical Psychology, Boston UniversityJoy James, Developmental Specialist, The Dimock CenterCrystal Haines hosts.

Public Speaking, Discourse and DebatePublic speaking is one the last things people want to do—mostly because of stage fright. However, we have seen in the last few weeks people, communities and politicians standing up and speaking out on issues and injustices. There’s power in expressing yourself.  It offers opportunities and opens doors. It also invites change. Our panel weighs in on the merits of debate and the best ways to express yourself. Plus, students from the Boston Debate League show us how they debate arguments in a fast and timely manner. Have a pen, paper or your laptop available.  You may want to take notes!Dr. Deion Hawkins, Assistant Professor of Argumentation & Advocacy AND Director of Debate, Emerson CollegeKim Willingham, Executive Director, Boston Debate LeagueLynn Yeboah, Student and Policy Debater, Harvard Debate CouncilRuthzee Louijeune, Boston City Councilor At-LargePhillip Martin hosts.

4/7Basic Black: D-E-I:This week we’ll discuss D-E-I, and how it has changed three years after George Floyd’s murder.   Companies pledged their support to hire DEI officers—and they did, however, there has been a drop off in the positions.  DEI specialists have either left or lost their jobs.  Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is doing away with diversity and equity advances in education.  Here in Greater Boston, several towns have seen DEI officers come and go, due to lack of commitment and resources. So where does DEI stand and how can companies, and organizations implement it moving forward?Panelists:Dr. Anouska Bhattacharyya, Vice President of Programs, YW BostonFelicia Jadczak, Co-Founder, Co-CEO, and Head of DEI Programming at SHE Geeks OutKim Dukes, Managing Director, Koya Partners Diversified Search GroupDr. Nefertiti Walker, Vice Chancellor for Equity and Inclusion, UMass AmherstPhilip Martin hosts.

We reflect on the life and legacy of civil rights leader, state representative, and mayoral candidate who passed away at 94. Philip Martin hosts.Panelists:Marita Rivero, Principal, Rivero Partners. She is also the former president of the Museum of African American History AND the former VP and GM for Radio and Television at GBH.James Dilday, Principal Attorney, Dilday Law.Rahsaan Hall, Principal, Rahsaan Hall Consulting AND former Director, Racial Justice Program, ACLU of Massachusetts.Darrin Howell, Political Director, 1199 S-E-I-U United Healthcare Workers East in Mass.

Black Women Business OwnersThis week, for Women’s History Month, a discussion with three Black women business owners on running a business before and during Covid – plus, launching a business during Covid.  The entrepreneurs will discuss the importance of community and helping other entrepreneurs grow. Part of the discussion will address funding and financing of their businesses in light of Silicon Valley Bank’s collapse. SVB backed several startups by women and women of color.Panelists:Joëlle Fontaine CEO, Founder and Designer, KréyolMaria Vasco, founder and CEO of Uvida, Boston’s first zero-waste storeShironda White, CEO and Co-Founder, Cupcake TherapyCallie Crossley hosts.

Boston’s new Reparations Task Force.The 10 members task force was announced in February to examine the history of slavery in Boston, its impact on descendants today, and provide suggestions to Boston Mayor Michelle Wu on repairing the harm to Black residents of Boston. Other states around the country, including California, and Rhode Island are also exploring reparations and ways to address the the issue. Financial compensation is a top issue around reparations.Will local and state measures work or will the federal government step in with a national policy?Panelists:Carrie Mays youth activist, student at U-Mass Boston AND Member of Boston’s Task Force on ReparationsTraci Griffith, Director, Racial Justice Program, ACLU Massachusetts George “Chip” Greenidge, Member, Task Force on Reparations AND Founder and Director, Greatest MINDSCallie Crossley hosts.

Basic Black: Food, Culture and Black HistoryA conversation about celebrating food, culture and Black history with two local chef/restaurant owners – one who makes traditional African American soul food, and the other who brings elements from their African, Asian and immigrant heritage.  We’ll also talk about how their establishments are surviving due to inflation and their work in the community.PANELISTSKwasi Kwaa, Chef Partner, Comfort Kitchen in DorchesterAnthony “Tony” Brooks, Chef and Owner, Coast Café in Cambridge; a family-owned business that was started by his father Dr. Paula Austin, Assistant Professor, African American and Black Diaspora Studies, Boston University

A one-on-one interview with Massachusetts new Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell. 

Basic Black: Black Men SpeakThis week on Basic Black, a discussion with Black men on the impact of police involved shootings and street killings after the murders of Tyre Nichols in Tennessee and Tyler Lawrence in Mattapan. Plus, how do they counsel and speak to young Black men about encounters with the police, crime and day-to-day living.   Panelists:Dr. Charles Daniels, Jr., a licensed therapist and Co-Founder and CEO, Father’s UpLift, a mental health clinic and treatment facility.Steph Lewis, President and CEO, The BASEShawn Brown, Executive Director, Youth Guidance Boston, with flagship programs, BAM – Becoming a Man and WOW – Working on Womanhood Callie Crossley hosts.

Basic Black: Black and Brown PhilanthropyThis week, we are discussing Black and Brown philanthropy in communities of color.  Black, Indigenous, donors of color are making bold steps to change the face of philanthropy, funding causes to not only assist non-profit organizations but also empower communities of color and build racial equity. It’s a shift that has been happening over the years due to the health disparities highlighted during the pandemic, racial reckoning, and the murder of George Floyd. Even large foundations and community funders recognize the need to reframe how they can support groups on the grass roots level. We’ll discuss the history of donations in communities of color via churches, giving circles, i.e., su-su, geh, tong-time, and local groups. Plus, how to attract more BIPOC and younger donors of color. Panelists:Bithiah Carter, President and CEO, New England Blacks in PhilanthropyAixa Beauchamp, Co-Founder, The Latino Equity Fund, The Boston FoundationDanielle Kim, Director, Asian Community Fund, The Boston FoundationNatanja Craig Oquendo, Executive Director, The Boston Women’s Fund Donna Latson Gittens hosts. 

This week a conversation with some of the new political leaders recently elected to office –that are not Gov. Healey or AG Campbell.  We are speaking with three new representatives of color. They are young, smart and possess the desire to help their communities. What will this shift in leadership bring and what they hope to accomplish for their constituents?Panelists:  Representative Judith Garcia, state representative for Suffolk County’s 11th District comprising Chelsea and parts of Everett.Representative Christopher Worrell, state Representative for Suffolk County’s 5th District which comprises parts of Boston’s Roxbury and Dorchester neighborhoods. Rep. Christopher Worrell succeeds Liz Miranda, who is now State Senator 2nd Suffolk District. He is also the brother of City Councilor Brian Worrell. Representative Sam Montaño, state representative for Suffolk County’s 15th District, which makes up a majority of Jamaica Plain, parts of Roxbury, and the back of the hill section of Mission Hill.Callie Crossley hosts.

1/20 Basic Black: Black Twitter’s Next MoveThis week our conversation is about Black Twitter, one of the most popular and influential groups on social media platform. Black Twitter started movements, raised issues, and provided a platform for Black and Brown people to connect and create a community where their voices are heard. However, Twitter’s rise in hate speech and ownership has shifted how people choose to participate, raising questions about the survival of Black Twitter and its discourse.Panelists:Jeneé Osterheldt, Culture Columnist, The Boston Globe.Caroline Kautsire, educator, and author of, “Some Kind of Girl.”Meredith Clark, Ph.D., associate professor and Founding Director of the Center for Communication, Media Innovation and Social Change, Northeastern University. Her research includes studying Black Twitter since 2010.Danielle Johnson, CEO and Founder, SPARK FM Online.Kristen L. Pope hosts.

The Embrace is coming. The 20x40 foot monument of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., embracing his wife, Coretta Scott King in 1964 soon after winning the Nobel Peace prize capturing their marital bond. The couple met as students in Boston. The Embrace Boston statue links Boston Common’s vibrant 400-year history as a gathering space for Boston residents. The panelists discuss Embrace Boston, the unveiling and the hope for the future —for Boston and the world. PanelistsImari Paris Jeffries, Executive Director, Embrace Boston Tito Jackson, CEO and founder, Apex Noire L’Merchie Frazier, Executive Director of Creative Strategies, SPOKECallie Crossley hosts.

Basic Black - Boston’s New PitchThis week on the show, we will discuss the tourism campaigns to attract diverse workers, visitors and businesses to Boston as well as highlight establishments owned by people of color in Boston and the surrounding cities.  The swearing in of Black, Brown and LGBTQIA+ political leadership and the unveiling of the Embrace statue raises the profile of the city and inclusivity. However, criticism about Boston and racism remains a topic of conversation.  Boston is not the only city with a history of racism, but it is a city with a persistent claim of being racist.  Are the campaigns enough to shed the city’s history and issues of discrimination and offer additional opportunities for communities and businesses of color?Guest Panelists:Segun Idowu, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion, City of Boston Hilina D. Ajakaiye, Executive Vice President, Meet Boston (formerly the GBCVB)Adrian Walker, Associate Editor/Metro Columnist, The Boston Globe.  He was also a member of the Spotlight team that reported on Race in BostonCallie Crossley hosts.

Public Art:  The MuralistsThe Greater Boston area is becoming something of a mecca for murals.  From Roxbury and Worcester to Salem and Boston, streets and buildings have been adorned with massive, colorful creations by local and national Black Indigenous artists.  But as artists and members of the community welcome the murals, it has also raised concerns around the preservation of the paintings and whether the artwork may invite gentrification in predominantly communities of color. Guest Panelists:Silvia López Chavez, muralist, and Artist-in-Residence at MASS MoCAMarquis Victor, Founder and Executive Director, Elevated Thought, an art and social justice organization based in Lawrence, MA.Rob “ProBlak” Gibbs, Muralist, Co-Founder and Director of Artist Fellowships for Artists for Humanity.Callie Crossley hosts.

This week on Basic Black, we discuss how the results from this mid-term election cycle will impact communities of color. During this mid-term election cycle, we have seen a number of new faces—Black and Brown candidates running for state and national office around the country. Andrea Campbell became Attorney General-elect for the Commonwealth, the first Black woman to hold that office. In Maryland, Wes Moore became the first Black governor; Robert Garcia will be the first out LGBTQ immigrant elected to Congress in California, and Maxwell Frost, 25 will be the first member of Generation Z elected to Congress in Florida. Panelists:Tanisha Sullivan Esq., President of the NAACP Boston Branch, she is also a member of the GBH Board of Advisors, and she ran in the Democratic primary for Massachusetts Secretary of State Rahsaan Hall, Principal for Rahsaan Hall Consulting, and former Director, Racial Justice Program, ACLU of Massachusetts, he also ran for Plymouth County DA during this election cycle Dr. Paul Watanabe, Professor of Political Science and Director of the Institute for Asian American Studies, UMass BostonDr. Tatishe Nteta, Provost Professor of Political Science, UMass Amherst and Director of UMass PollCallie Crossley hosts.

This week on Basic Black, we discuss how quiet quitting impacts communities of color. Several surveys confirm millions of American workers are quiet quitters. A hot topic of interest as many people are returning to the office, for some employees that feel undervalued and underpaid are adopting this quiet quitting mindset of disengagement and dissatisfaction while remaining on payroll. However, not everybody can afford pulling back from the job, for workers of color that already feel they face mistreatment and inequities in the workplace, including bias performance reviews, lack of feedback from managers, and being tasked with undesirable projects. Panelists:Melissa James, Chief Growth Officer at IBIS Consulting Group Lauren Hunter-Dyson, Chief People and Diversity Officer for the New England AquariumMalia Lazu, founder and CEO of The Lazu Group and lecturer at the MIT Sloan School of Management.Callie Crossley hosts.

This week on Basic Black we will discuss rap lyrics used in court cases as evidence, the bias toward hip hop and rap --the biggest music genre, and how do you separate the art/artistic expression from the artist.  But rap artists have ended up charged and jailed — singled out by prosecutors who have claimed their lyrics reveal criminal intent. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently passed a bill saying that lyrics cannot be used in court cases.  There is also a federal bill, the RAP Act, looking to do the same nationally.  Why is their freedom of speech not protected? And will this criminalizing of rap influence other kinds of creative expression?Guest Panelists:Renée Graham, Associate Editor and Opinion Columnist, The Boston Globe’s op-ed pageMichael P. Jeffries, Ph.D., Professor and Dean of Academic Affairs, Wellesley College. He is also the author of, “Thug Life: Race, Gender, and the Meaning of Hip-Hop.”Danielle Scott aka “Queen D.” MC, vocalist, songwriter, producer, PhD candidate at Brown University AND Professor, Hip-Hop Jazz Ensemble, Berklee College of MusicTraci Griffith, Director, Racial Justice Program, A-C-L-U of Massachusetts (via remote)Callie Crossley hosts.

This week on Basic Black we will be discussing sickle cell disease.  It’s one of the most known inherited blood disorders that largely affects Black and brown people.  A debilitating disease for those who have it, along with the strain on their families, sickle cell “warriors” live in constant pain.  Life-threatening medical issues include stroke, eye damage, infection and pulmonary issues, making Covid very risky for those with sickle cell disease.  Currently, the only cure for SCD is a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Many companies are conducting clinical trials.  Advocates hope there will be more focus and attention on SCD to increase services and ultimately find a cure.Guest Panelists:Dr. Charl Azar, Medical Director, Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Center at Mass General HospitalState Representative Bud Williams, of the 11th Hampden district in Springfield AND Chairperson, Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and InclusionCarissa Juarez, a mother of child living with sickle cell disease. She is also a Patient Ambassador for Massachusetts Sickle Cell Association.Dima Hendricks, Health Advocate, Activist, Author, and a Sickle Cell “Warrior”Crystal Haynes hosts.

Over the summer, Gov. Charlie Baker passed the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, or CROWN Act, intended to protect against hair discrimination and bias based on hair texture, that’s historically associated with someone's race. Once the bill is passed in the Senate, it would make hair discrimination based on the texture of natural hair illegal in the workplace and in K-12 public and charter schools. Still, many states do not have these laws protecting against discrimination, resulting in stories of Black men, women, and children being punished for their hair and in some incidents of having their hair cut off. This controversy has sparked a rise in the natural hair movement, first originated during the 1960s in the U.S., and now more people of color are finding each other online and sharing their natural hair journeys, including; awareness about natural hair care products, natural treatments, hair loss and scalp conditions, and finding local salons and natural hair stylists. On this episode of Basic Black, we discuss the impact of the CROWN Act and rise in the natural hair movement. Host Kristen L. Pope will be joined by: Nike Okediji, owner of The Curated Curl and Deputy General Counsel at GBH; Celeste Viciere, therapist and podcast host; Sharita Payton, owner of The LOFT Hair Studio; Dr. Deborah Scott, Co-Director, Hair Loss Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. 

Over the summer, Gov. Charlie Baker passed the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair, or CROWN Act, intended to protect against hair discrimination and bias based on hair texture, that’s historically associated with someone's race. Once the bill is passed in the Senate, it would make hair discrimination based on the texture of natural hair illegal in the workplace and in K-12 public and charter schools. This week on Basic Black, we discuss the impact of the CROWN Act and rise in the natural hair movement. Host Kristen L. Pope will be joined by: Nike Okediji, owner of The Curated Curl and Deputy General Counsel at GBH; Celeste Viciere, therapist and podcast host of, “Celeste the Therapist”; Sharita Payton, owner of The LOFT Hair Studio; Dr. Deborah Scott, Co-Director, Hair Loss Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

In recent years, food foraging has piqued the interests of nature enthusiasts seeking out medicinal alternatives and edible resources. Alexis Nikole Nelson aka Blackforager has amassed nearly 4 million followers on TikTok, educating and encouraging people to forage neighboring trails, woods, and within their backyards as a way to reconnect with their cultural heritage. Historical food foragers George Washington Carver and Harriet Tubman taught the skill as a means for survival. However, before you head outdoors to go foraging, learn about the health and wellness benefits of foraging and listen to the safety warnings from our guests before consuming what you foraged.Guest Panelists:Maria Pinto, writer, forager, and a self-proclaimed "mushroom enthusiast"Jerel Ferguson, urban farmer, herbalist, forager, and Community Outreach Manager from Speak for the Trees in Boston.Donna Latson Gittens hosts.

This week on Basic Black at the Boston Public Library discuss the launch of the Berklee College of Music Gospel Performance Program during the summer aimed at giving high schoolers an immersive learning experience about the history of gospel music, techniques, and insight into the gospel music industry. Panelists:Prof. Dennis Montgomery , Berklee College of MusicRev. Dr. Emmett G. Price III, Dean of Africana Studies for the Berklee College of Music. Donna Latson Gittens, hosts.

July is Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month or BIPOC Mental Health Month. Since 2008, this was named after journalist, author, educator, and mental health advocate, Bebe Moore Campbell. Her contributions and legacy remind us that BIPOC communities are significantly more likely to develop mental health conditions, including burnout, a form of exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged emotional, physical, and mental stress.This week on Basic Black Extra: Basic Black at the Boston Public Library, a discussion about burnout in the workplace and its effect on the BIPOC community, women of color and millennials.Guest Panelists:Celeste Viciere, LMHC, therapist, author, and host of the ‘Celeste the Therapist Podcast’Cecil Webster, MD, psychiatrist, and lecturer at Harvard Medical SchoolDonna Latson Gittens hosts

June 24: Roe v Wade has been overturned.  In a highly controversial decision, the Supreme Court overturned the landmark decision from 1973 that gave people the right to have an abortion. The panel discusses what happens next regarding the ruling’s impact on birthing individuals of color as well as issues affecting same sex marriages, trans rights, teaching health and wellness in schools, the ability to cross state lines, cost and finding health services.Panelists:Renée Landers, Professor of Law, Faculty Director of the Health and Biomedical Law Concentration and the Master of Science in Law: Life Sciences program at Suffolk University Law School in BostonIván Espinoza-Madrigal, Executive Director for Lawyers for Civil Rights in BostonRenée Graham, Associate Editor and Opinion Columnist for the Boston Globe’s op-ed pageChastity Bowick, executive director of the Transgender Emergency Fund of MACallie Crossley hosts.

The road to motherhood raises a range of emotions and questions from what to expect when expecting to people telling soon-to-be moms, “You glow.”  But the joy of motherhood for Black and other women of color is fraught in continual racial disparities in maternal healthcare. Research suggests having a health practitioner of color or using a doula provides improved outcomes and an easier pregnancy. However many women and people of color face the risk of dying in childbirth. What can be done to help them to receive the medical care necessary?Panelists:Dr. Ndidiamaka (IN-DeeDee-AH-mah-KAH) Amutah-Onukagha (AH-muh-TAH – OH-noo-KAH-GAH) Assistant Dean, Associate Professor, and Founder of the Center for Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice at Tufts University.Ketura’h Edwards-Robinson, MSN, Nurse Practitioner and Manager of the Maternal Child Health Program at the Dimock Center in Roxbury, Massachusetts*.*Rep. Liz Miranda, State Representative for Suffolk County’s 5th District. Her district comprises parts of Roxbury and the Dorchester neighborhoods of Boston. She is also running for State Senator for the Second Suffolk district.Callie Crossley hosts.

The rise of race-based violence, hate and discriminationThis week the episode will look at recent mass shooting deaths of African Americans in Buffalo as well as Africans and African Americans caught in Russia's conflict with Ukraine and how the globalization of discrimination, bigotry and hate, intersects in our lives. We’ll also discuss treatment of refugees when they are resettled in the U.S. How are people of color impacted by the rise of devastating race-based violence, hate crimes, and discrimination both here and abroad?   Panelists:Iván Espinoza-Madrigal, Executive Director, Lawyers for Civil Rights in Boston.Dr. Sandra Mattar (MAH-tar), Clinical Psychologist, assistant professor, AND Director of Training at the Immigrant and Refugee Health Center, Boston Medical Center.Dr. Clarence Lusane, Professor of Political Science and Director of the International Affairs program, Howard University.and by PHONE, EVA CASTILLO, Director of the New Hampshire Alliance for Immigrants and Refugees for MIRA, the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition.   Phillip Martin hosts.

May 13Basic Black: Food Justice in the CommunityThis week, a conversation about the lack of accessible, affordable, and culturally relevant food in communities of color and its intersectionality into health, economic development, and day-to-day living for people.Panelists:Hae In Kim, Deputy Director of Planning & Development, The Mayor’s Office of Food JusticeVivien Morris, RDN, LDN, MPH, MS, Founder, Mattapan Food & Fitness CoalitionCassandria Campbell, Co-Founder, Fresh Food GenerationPatricia Spence, President, and CEO, Urban Farming InstituteCallie Crossley hosts.

African American writers tell stories that celebrate and document the black experience, allowing readers to reflect and learn about the history of African American life. The removal of books by authors of color from libraries and black-owned bookstores closing raise concerns over preserving Black books. What happens if these works from African American culture disappear for good? First, Prof. Renee Landers from Suffolk University School of Law discusses the implications of what the leaked opinion to overturn Roe v. Wade could mean for Black women and women of color.Panelists:Carmen Fields is an award-winning TV host, journalist, and writer AND is being honored for contributing her collection of books written by Black authors to the Salem State University Library.Marita Golden, is a literary consultant, writing coach, and an award-winning author of many books including her book, “The Strong Black Woman,” and the co-founder of The Hurston/Wright Foundation.Kim McLarin, Professor and Interim Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies at Emerson College.  She is also an award-winning author of several books.  Her latest is, "James Baldwin's Another Country: Bookmarked."Caroline Kautsire, Professor, at Bunker Hill Community College and author of, "What Kind of Girl? 

This week the episode will discuss William Monroe Trotter, the co-founder and editor of the Boston Guardian newspaper.   Trotter was known for his rigorous, sometimes sharp debate.  He wasn’t shy about having challenging conversations with his peers and the President of the United States. Trotter’s discourse matched his deep investment in exposing and doing away with racial inequity at the time.  He grew up in Hyde Park and was the first African American man to earn a Phi Beta Kappa membership at Harvard. The episode will discuss the civil rights activist as well as how his actions influence and impact a new generation of activists.Guest Panelists:Reverend Cornell William Brooks, Professor and Director for The William Monroe Trotter Collaborative for Social Justice at Harvard Kennedy School’s Center for Public Leadership. He is also the former President of the NAACP.Dr. Paula Austin, Assistant Professor of History and African American Studies at Boston UniversityDeborah Douglas, Co-Editor-in-Chief of The Emancipator.Lalou Trotter Dammond is the Director for Craftwork Production and a direct descendent of William Monroe Trotter. Crystal Haynes hosts.

Building Community WealthCommunity wealth building is an economic model that provides neighborhoods and communities a seat at the table, where they can invest –and utilize their time and talent to create an equitable community for all. Can community wealth building help close the racial wealth gap and increase economic prosperity?Teri Williams, President and C-O-O of One-United Bank. She is also the Board Chair, Black Economic Council of Massachusetts (BECMA).Nia K. Evans, Executive Director of the Boston Ujima ProjectNia Grace, owner of Darryl’s Corner Bar & Kitchen, The Underground Café + Lounge, co-founder of the Boston Black Hospitality CoalitionTurahn Dorsey, Co-founder of the Jazz Urbane Cafe development in the historic Bolling Building. He is also a member of the GBH Board of Advisors.Callie Crossley hosts.

In advance of the Boston Marathon, we’ll speak with runners and organizers of community eventshelping to expand running programs, not only for health and wellness in communities of color but alsoas a powerful vehicle for social justice. Included in the discussion, we’ll also address how organizers ofthe marathon have faced criticism around the lack of diversity and inclusion, and how they are workingwith groups to create partnerships and community engagement.Our Panelists:Adrienne Benton, member, B.A.A. Board of Governors, member of the National Black MarathonersAssociation and a Black Girls RUN! memberThaddeus Miles, founder of Hood Fit. He is also an award-winning photographer and Director ofCommunity Services at MassHousingRuben Sança, a 2012 Olympian and Assistant Athletics Director for Administration at UMass Lowell. Heis also a USATF Level 1 Certified Coach, co-chair for the Adult & Youth Running Cohort, Boston RunningCollaborative.Charles Anderson, M.D., MPH, MBA, President & CEO, Dimock Community Health CenterCallie Crossley hosts.

This week the panelists will discuss issues around affordable housing--rent costs, neighborhoodgentrification, the housing boom and people moving away from Boston to neighboring cities due to thecost or priced out of neighborhoods. The group will also discuss racial gap in homeownership.Our Panelists:Emilio Dorcely, CEO of Urban Edge in Roxbury and a member of Boston’s Rent Stabilization AdvisoryCommitteeChrystal Kornegay, Executive Director of MassHousing in Boston.* joins via post-showMalia Lazu, CEO & Founder of The Lazu Group and Lecturer at the MIT Sloan School of ManagementJohn B. Cruz III, President and CEO of Cruz Companies in Roxbury.Crystal Haynes hosts.