Indivisible CLT Podcast

Indivisible Charlotte hosts a webinar discussion with historian Timothy Snyder about his book On Freedom, contrasting “negative freedom” (freedom as removing barriers or acting on impulse) with “positive freedom” (collectively building social and political conditions—like education, healthcare, and solidarity—that enable dignified lives and moral self-creation). Snyder explains the book as an answer to what resistance to tyranny is for, arguing that imagining a future is essential and that “futurelessness” functions as a governing strategy benefiting oligarchs. The conversation links these ideas to current events: “superpower suicide,” the Supreme Court’s weakening of the Voting Rights Act, organizing and messaging for voters, possible pre-election “stunts” such as war, religious claims, or manufactured terrorism, and concerns about ICE and military politicization. Snyder cites anti-corruption coalitions and the protest–election connection in Poland and Hungary as lessons for U.S. democracy.00:00 Welcome and Setup01:15 Meet Timothy Snyder03:55 Why Write On Freedom06:24 Negative vs Positive Freedom08:59 Freedom as Moral Project10:14 Superpower Suicide Explained13:05 Canvassing Freedom Policies15:40 Reclaiming a Future20:22 Politics of Eternity21:34 Voting Rights Act Fallout24:46 Mobilizing for Midterms26:13 Next Coup Attempt Stunts29:16 Hungary Terrorism Stunt30:50 Defanging Fear Tactics32:39 ICE Intimidation Scenarios34:44 Poland Hungary Winning Playbook38:42 Protests Power Elections40:47 Winning Big Then Act41:49 Ukraine Trump Putin Lens46:57 Math Literacy And Power49:16 National History Curriculum Debate51:23 Military Purges Coup Fears56:10 Closing Call To OrganizePlease subscribe to our Indivisible CLT Podcast on YouTube and Substack!This podcast episode is also available on YouTube!📚 Books by Timothy Snyder* “On Freedom” by Timothy Snyder* “On Tyranny” by Timothy Snyder* “Thinking the Twentieth Century” by Tony Judt with Timothy Snyder📝 Other Works by Timothy Snyder* Substack essay: “The Next Coup Attempt and How to Stop It”* Timothy Snyder’s Substack: snyder.substack.com🏛️ Organizations & Platforms Referenced* Indivisible Charlotte* Mobilize (for upcoming Indivisible events) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com

Indivisible Charlotte’s In the Know Live, hosted by Freda Zeh and Wes Fryer, features a recorded panel with community leaders Rachel Salo (Indivisible Charlotte), Hector Vaca (Action NC), Stefanía Arteaga (Carolina Migrant Network), and Marcelle Vielot (Charlotte Metrolina Labor Council) on the November 2025 immigration enforcement surge in Charlotte, dubbed “Operation Charlotte’s Web.” Panelists describe the operation as a targeted campaign of fear by CBP, discuss why Charlotte was selected, and explain distinctions between CBP and ICE. They outline coalition organizing through the Charlotte Immigrant Protection Alliance, including verifier networks, live alerts to 70,000 people, street patrols, school watches, mutual aid, Know Your Rights trainings, protests, and pressure on local officials. They address workplace disruptions, limited legal protections and capacity, ongoing documentation of civil rights violations, upcoming May Day organizing, lessons about impacted-community leadership, cross-movement solidarity, and the importance of self-care.00:00 Welcome and Format01:00 Meet the Panelists02:39 Why Charlotte Was Targeted05:32 Community Pushback Wins06:33 Under Siege and Alerts09:51 Coalition Mobilizes Fast12:44 ICE vs CBP Explained18:09 Action NC Organizing Playbook22:47 Labor Impacts at Worksites29:00 Legal System Failures31:05 Legal Aid Hit Hard32:06 State Response Gaps33:58 Intakes Surge Fast35:36 Coalition Coordination41:36 Lessons From Hector45:12 Economic Impact Question46:39 May Day Mobilization48:21 Labor Lessons And Story55:22 Community Unity And Joy58:15 Self Care To Sustain59:33 Closing Thanks And LinksThis podcast is also available on YouTube:Show notes / referenced links:* Indivisible Charlotte * Indivisible CLT Substack (podcast & newsletter) * Indivisible CLT Podcast on Substack https://indivisibleclt.substack.com/podcast* Indivisible CLT Podcast on Spotify* Indivisible CLT Podcast on YouTube * Indivisible CLT Podcast on Apple Podcasts* Action NC * Carolina Migrant Network * Charlotte Metrolina Labor Council This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com

Speaking at the No Kings 3 Rally and Protest in Charlotte after traveling from Houston, Ibram X. Kendi describes encountering ICE agents at the airport and reflects on how many Americans still support authoritarian measures. Citing survey results showing significant openness to dictatorship and expanded power for Trump, they argue that the strongest predictor of today’s anti-democratic attitudes is belief in Great Replacement Theory—the idea that progressive elites are enabling people of color to “replace” white people, requiring authoritarian protection. Drawing on an 1767 warning about rulers binding people by “the chain of their own ideas,” the speaker links modern Trumpism to racist and xenophobic beliefs and traces the term’s popularization by French writer Renaud Camus. They conclude by urging a shift from the “chain of ideas” to a “chain of humanity” to defeat oligarchs and authoritarians and build an anti-racist democracy.00:00 Welcome to Charlotte00:44 Airport Chaos and ICE02:58 Why People Choose Kings04:28 Great Replacement Explained06:33 Meritocracy and Obedience08:26 Chains of Ideas Story10:55 Origins in France13:51 Trump and Replacement Politics16:27 Breaking the Chain17:43 Chain of Humanity FinaleLearn more about all our coalition partners for No Kings 3 in Charlotte on nokingsCLT.com.Learn more about Indivisible Charlotte and join our work on indivisibleCLT.orgThis video is also available on YouTube and Facebook. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com

Watch and listen to this recording of Indivisible Charlotte's 'In the Know Live' webinar from February 3, 2026 over Zoom, featuring Joyce Vance, former U.S. Attorney and esteemed legal expert on criminal justice and civil rights. In this engaging discussion with members of our Research Team, Vance discusses her book, 'Giving Up is Unforgivable: A Manual for Keeping Democracy,' which provides essential guidance for defending democratic principles. The conversation explores critical issues including the health of the DOJ, voter suppression tactics, and the importance of civic engagement, particularly among younger generations. Vance shares insights into the importance of due process, free and fair elections, and how community activism plays a pivotal role in maintaining democratic integrity. This enlightening conversation empowers citizens to participate actively and intelligently in their democracy. To learn more about Indivisible Charlotte and participate in future live events, visit www.indivisibleclt.org. Please subscribe to our podcast on Substack, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts.00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:45 Housekeeping Notes and Program Format02:56 Introducing Joyce Vance05:32 Joyce Vance on Writing Her Book09:43 The Importance of Civic Engagement18:50 Challenges Facing the DOJ22:55 Engaging the Younger Generation29:45 Protests in Maine and Youth Involvement31:11 Trump’s Midterm Election Controversy33:04 Ensuring Free and Fair Elections35:05 Voter Suppression Tactics39:43 The SAVE Act and Its Implications41:57 Trump’s Legal Tactics and Lawfare46:32 Supreme Court and Judicial Concerns50:05 Epstein Documents and Victim Protection54:14 Personal Resilience and Closing RemarksConnect with us and join our work at Indivisible CLT!This podcast episode is also available on YouTube.Subscribe to and share our podcast on both YouTube and Substack. Also find links on our main website, indivisibleclt.org/podcast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com

In this PART 2 episode of Indivisible Charlotte’s ‘In the Know Live’ podcast, members of our Research Team continue the conversation on voter suppression with Bob Phillips and Tyler Daye from Common Cause, North Carolina. They discuss the Fair Maps Act (HB 20) and independent redistricting commissions, potential midterm election interference, and the importance of safeguarding democracy. The episode includes reflections from Bob Phillips as he retires after 25 years of service and insights into mobilizing against voter intimidation. Join the conversation to learn more about defending electoral integrity and the future of American democracy. Don’t forget to subscribe to our Substack for updates on our other podcasts, subscribe to us on YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!00:00 Introduction to Indivisible Charlotte and Voter Suppression01:07 Independent Redistricting Commissions Explained06:23 Challenges and Realities of Passing Redistricting Reform12:23 Potential Midterm Election Interference17:20 Common Cause’s Election Protection Efforts23:40 Reflections and Future Hopes for Democracy28:17 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIf you have not already, please view PART 1 of this conversation on Substack or YouTube.Learn more and support the non-partisan organization, Common Cause North Carolina.Connect with us and join our work at Indivisible CLT!This podcast episode is also available on YouTube, and wherever you listen to podcasts! Check back soon for the second part of this two part podcast series.Subscribe to and share our podcast on both YouTube and Substack:All our past podcasts are archived on: indivisibleclt.org/podcast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com

Join Indivisible Charlotte for an in-depth discussion on voter suppression with Bob Phillips and Tyler Daye of Common Cause, North Carolina. Learn about current attacks on voting rights, off-cycle redistricting, and the erosion of the Voting Rights Act. Discover potential reforms to enhance voting rights and gain insights into the challenges of elections, voter suppression, and gerrymandering. This is Part 1 of a two-part series that dives deep into these crucial issues impacting democracy. Don't forget to subscribe to our Substack for updates and the upcoming Part 2, subscribe to us on YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts!00:00 Introduction to Indivisible Charlotte00:41 Today’s Topic: Voter Suppression01:38 Meet the Experts: Bob Phillips and Tyler Day02:56 Current Attacks on Voting Rights03:21 The Save Act and Its Implications05:40 Senate Bill 747 and Same Day Registration09:00 Gerrymandering Explained12:49 AI and Redistricting14:56 Redistricting Activities in Other States25:48 The Voting Rights Act and Its Challenges34:44 Future Reforms and Legislative Hopes41:20 Chief Justice John Roberts and the Voting Rights Act44:31 Conclusion and Part Two TeaserLearn more and support the non-partisan organization, Common Cause North Carolina.Connect with us and join our work at Indivisible CLT!This podcast episode is also available on YouTube, and wherever you listen to podcasts! Check back soon for the second part of this two part podcast series.Subscribe to and share our podcast on both YouTube and Substack. All our past podcasts are archived on: indivisibleclt.org/podcast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com

In this episode of Indivisible Charlotte's “In the Know Live,” founding director Carolyn Eberly and research coordinator Marshal Auron welcome Chris Armitage from The Existentialist Republic. Chris, a seasoned US Air Force veteran and writer, discusses his views on rising authoritarianism, the concept of 'soft secession,' and the importance of aggressive political action. Joined by Pat Rosa, they delve into topics such as the characteristics of state autocratic democracies, the role of state attorney generals, and strategies for maintaining democratic norms. The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive engagement and real solutions to counteract political imbalances. To learn more about Indivisible Charlotte and participate in future events, visit www.indivisibleclt.org.00:00 Introduction to Indivisible Charlotte00:41 Meet Chris Armitage: Political Thinker and Author01:33 Chris Armitage's Background and Work05:14 Understanding Autocratic Democracies12:02 The Role of State Attorney Generals16:50 The Importance of Fighting for Democracy19:08 The Long-Term Fight Against Authoritarianism24:57 Discussing the 2026 Elections25:46 Local Elections and Their Impact26:53 Potential Election Chaos in 202628:02 The Big Tent Strategy30:39 Soft Secession Explained36:27 Lyndon B. Johnson's Political Tactics42:32 Fighting Authoritarianism44:41 Finding Hope in Activism47:33 Conclusion and Call to ActionFollow Christopher Armitage and subscribe to him on Substack on “The Existentialist Republic.”Connect with us and join our work at Indivisible CLT!indivisibleclt.orgSubscribe to and share our podcast on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Pocketcasts | Substack This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com

MONEY TALKS.We’re hitting them where it hurts this weekend. We’re calling for a weekend supporting local businesses over corporations.🚫AMAZON🚫🚫TARGET🚫🚫HOME DEPOT🚫🚫WALMART🚫Check out our list of recommended businesses to support at NOKINGSCLT.ORG.Please share this video, also on TikTok and YouTube!Read more in our post from November 22nd, “Big Box Boycott: Choose Community Over Corporate Greed (Nov 28–Dec 2)” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com

In this third episode of Indivisible Charlotte’s ‘In the Know Live’ program and first podcast episode,, founding director Carolyn Eberly introduces a profound discussion with Anne Applebaum, a renowned journalist and author. They explore the forces undermining democracy worldwide and strategies for resisting them. Anne talks about her latest book ‘Autocracy Inc.’ which delves into a network of dictatorial regimes and their methods for maintaining power. With Marshall Arron and Pat Rosa moderating, Applebaum discusses the tactics employed by autocratic states and how these are mirrored in the U.S. political landscape. She provides insights on global autocratic behaviors, the significance of civic engagement, and practical ways activists can fight back. The episode concludes with a Q&A session addressing the viability of non-violent protests and the essential role of public activism in upholding democratic values.00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:05 Housekeeping and Event Details01:40 Introducing Anne Applebaum02:20 Anne Applebaum’s Opening Remarks02:59 Autocracy Inc. Explained03:36 Global Network of Dictatorships05:02 Autocratic Tactics and Influence06:55 Impact on Democracies09:16 Autocratic Methods in the US16:03 Questions and Answers29:04 The Role of Protests in Autocratic Regimes29:29 Historical Example: Poland’s Fight Against Autocracy31:24 Modern Examples of Resistance to Autocracy33:08 Effective Communication in Political Campaigns38:44 Ukraine’s Resilience Against Russian Aggression43:35 Strategies for Activism and Non-Violent Resistance50:20 Final Thoughts and Staying OptimisticConnect with us and join our work at Indivisible CLT!https://indivisibleclt.orgThis episode is also available as a video on Substack and on YouTube, in our YouTube podcast. Please fill out our membership form to officially join us! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indivisibleclt.substack.com