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Summary
Dr. Tiffany M. Nyachae and Dr. Ruth M. López question the utility of the identifier “People of Color” and whether we should abandon it as a term of unspoken solidarity and political strategy given the recent social media uproar around the fact that a large percentage of Latinos voted for Trump in the 2024 presidential election. In this conversation, they reflect on their experiences as Women of Color and the challenges of navigating social media discussions around race and solidarity. The dialogue emphasizes the need for nuanced conversations about identity, solidarity, and responsibility in the face of anti-blackness and other forms of oppression while offering necessary pathways forward. The conversation also delves into the fragility of masculinity in discourse, the exhaustion of political engagement, and the need for critical conversations around voting and accountability. They emphasize the importance of unpacking terms like “Black and Brown” and the oversimplification of voting demographics in media narratives. As they explore the complexities of racial identity, particularly the term "People of Color" and its implications, they discuss the historical context of this term, its evolution, and the importance of solidarity among marginalized groups. The conversation highlights the challenges of collective advocacy, the need for clear communication, and the significance of teaching future generations about solidarity and social justice. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of understanding individual and collective identities while navigating the complexities of race and politics.

Takeaways
Social media can amplify voices but also complicate discussions.
Anti-blackness exists within various communities and must be addressed.
Racial identity is not monolithic; it varies across individuals.
Political choices can have profound impacts on Communities of Color.
Terminology like “People of Color” can obscure real differences in experiences.
Education is crucial in understanding historical and systemic issues.
Conversations about race and identity require trust and vulnerability.
There's a responsibility to document stories in our communities.
Assumptions about Latinx identities often lack historical context.
Online discourse can reveal vulnerability and honesty.
Voter fatigue is a real issue in political engagement.
Voting is just one part of a larger political project.
Terms like “Black and Brown' need careful unpacking.
Media oversimplifies the complexities of voting demographics.
Historical context is crucial in understanding racial terms.
Solidarity among marginalized groups is essential for social change.
Teaching children about solidarity is vital for future generations.
Racial terminology has evolved and continues to change.
The narrative around racial identity is often messy and complex.
Conversations about race should be ongoing.

Articles and Books Referenced in this Episode:

• https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2020/07/02/people-color-are-protesting-heres-what-you-need-know-about-this-new-identity/
• The Miner's Canary: Enlisting Race, Resisting Power, Transforming Democracy by Lani Guinier and Gerald Torres
• "'People of Color' as a Category and Identity in the United States" by Paul Starr and Edward P. Freeland

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Summary
In this episode, we showcase the work of Migizi, an Indigenous youth-serving organization based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Tiffany Nyachae is in conversation with Migizi youth workers, Kija Deer and Kaylin Lopez. They discuss their roles, the importance of community, and how Migizi fosters cultural connections and social development. The conversation highlights the significance of providing spaces for youth to explore their identities and the challenges faced by urban Native youth in connecting with their culture. In this conversation, Tiffany, Kija, and Kaylin discuss the importance of cultural identity among Indigenous youth, the challenges of cultural disconnection, and the role of community organizations in fostering support and reconnection to culture. They explore how cultural practices and mentorship can empower youth, the significance of educational support, and the joy found in personal passions. The dialogue emphasizes the need for patience and understanding from adults towards Indigenous youth, highlighting the reciprocal nature of relationships within the community.

Takeaways

Migizi provides a comfortable space for youth.

Cultural practices are essential for youth identity.

Community support is crucial for youth development.

Youth need places to relax and connect after school.

Cultural opportunities help reconnect youth with their heritage.

The importance of mentorship in youth programs.

Urban areas can disconnect Native youth from their culture.

It's never too late to learn about one's culture.

Building bonds within the community fosters growth.

Youth programs should focus on cultural and social development.

Cultural disconnection is a significant issue for Indigenous youth.

Reconnecting with cultural identity is essential for personal growth.

Community organizations play a vital role in supporting youth.

Mentorship from older generations is invaluable for youth development.

Educational support is crucial for academic success.

Youth bring new energy and ideas to community organizations.

Patience and kindness are necessary when working with Indigenous youth.

Engaging in cultural practices nurtures the spirit and identity.

Personal passions, like math and art, contribute to joy and fulfillment.

Building connections within the community fosters a sense of belonging.

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In this episode, I interview Dr. Wayne Au and Dr. Dolores Calderón, two of the three authors of the award-winning book and inspiration for the series, Reclaiming the Multicultural Roots of U.S. Curriculum: Communities of Color and Official Knowledge in Education. We discuss how different Communities of Color have resisted erasure from U.S. curriculum and the importance of recovering and synthesizing these histories in ways that are decolonial and outside the white gaze. The authors also discuss their approaches to recovering these histories and documenting the fight for structural and curricular inclusion in schools and self-determination among Communities of Color marginalized by race, ethnicity, culture, indigeneity, language, and/or immigration status in the U.S.

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Summary
In this conversation, Tiffany Nyachae, Joaquin Muñoz, and Hollie Anderson Kulago discuss the significance of the show Reservation Dogs in representing Indigenous stories and experiences. They explore personal connections to the show, the authenticity of its storytelling, the role of setting, and the interplay of spirituality and community. The discussion highlights the importance of representation in media and how the show resonates with Indigenous audiences, showcasing humor, strength, and cultural identity. The conversation delves into the complexities of Indigenous identity, the impact of historical trauma, and the importance of relationality and kinship in healing. They explore the intersections of history, spirituality, and contemporary struggles faced by Indigenous youth, emphasizing the need for accountability and the reclamation of cultural practices. The dialogue highlights the significance of intergenerational relationships and the role of community in navigating these challenges.

Takeaways

• Reservation Dogs offers a unique representation of Indigenous youth.
• The show reflects real-life experiences and complexities of Indigenous communities.
• Authenticity in storytelling is crucial for meaningful representation.
• The setting in Reservation Dogs serves as a character that enhances the narrative.
• Spirituality is woven into the fabric of the show, reflecting Indigenous beliefs.
• The humor in the show resonates deeply with Indigenous audiences.
• The characters embody a range of experiences that challenge stereotypes.
• The show is a celebration of Indigenous culture and identity.
• Community support is a central theme in the characters' journeys.
• Indigenous youth are navigating historical trauma and contemporary struggles.
• Organized religion has played a complex role in Indigenous contexts.
• The spirit world is a significant aspect of Indigenous identity.
• Diverse representations of Indigenous experiences disrupt stereotypes.
• The show serves as a rich resource for understanding Indigenous epistemologies.
• Characters in the show can be analyzed through Indigenous pedagogies.
• Relationality is crucial for healing across generations.
• Kinship ties are essential for holistic wellbeing in Indigenous communities.
• The importance of accountability in addressing historical injustices.
• The show exemplifies the need to reclaim Indigenous cultural practices.

Sound Bites

• "It's our stories being told from our perspective."
• "This is a coming back to ways of knowing."
• "The youth remind us that we need our ancestors."
• "This show embodies an entire curriculum."

Sources
1. https://deadline.com/2022/06/reservation-dogs-sterlin-harjo-taika-waititi-interview-devery-jacobs-dpharaoh-woon-a-tai-1235038398/

2. https://www.npr.org/transcripts/1116992735

3. https://www.incluvie.com/articles/the-power-of-the-reservation-dogs

4. https://time.com/6317495/reservation-dogs-series-finale-review/

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Summary
This episode and series is inspired by Dr. David O. Stovall’s book, Born Out of Struggle: Critical Race Theory, School Creation, and the Politics of Interruption. Dr. Tiffany M. Nyachae is in conversation with hunger strikers, Dr. Patty Buenrostro and Andrea X. Guzmán. We explore the rich history of activism in the Little Village and North Lawndale neighborhoods of Chicago, focusing on their personal stories as community members involved in education justice and the hunger strike movement. The guests discuss the tensions between Black and Brown communities, the impact of historical segregation, and the importance of intergenerational relationships in sustaining social movements. They also reflect on the outcomes of their activism, the legacy of the hunger strikes, and the ongoing fight for equitable education in their neighborhoods.

Takeaways

The importance of personal stories in activism.

Community organizing is essential for education justice.

Tensions between communities can be rooted in historical segregation.

Hunger strikes can be a powerful form of protest.

Intergenerational relationships strengthen social movements.

Activism requires love and commitment to the community.

The legacy of past struggles informs current activism.

Community support is crucial during protests.

Education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all.

The fight for justice is ongoing and requires collective effort.

Other Books Referenced in this Episode:

A Political Education: Black Politics and Education Reform in Chicago since the 1960s by Elizabeth Todd-Breland

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In this episode, Dr. Aja D. Reynolds joins me as co-host in our interview with Dr. David O. Stovall about his critical book and inspiration for this series, Born Out of Struggle: Critical Race Theory, School Creation, and the Politics of Interruption. We discuss the responsibilities of universities towards community-driven educational efforts. Our conversation also explores the intersection of Critical Race Theory, Critical Race Praxis, community activism, and the importance of collective care and authentic engagement in community and relational practices. Stovall shares insights from his book, highlighting the need for universities to connect with and support community initiatives in education.

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Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Tiffany M. Nyachae engages with Dr. Erica R. Davila, Dr. Aja D. Reynolds, and Dr. Asif Wilson to discuss their experiences and perspectives on activism, education, and community. They explore the challenges of balancing academic responsibilities with activist work, the importance of building genuine relationships within communities, and the complexities of navigating the Chicago Public Schools system. The discussion also touches on issues of class, the need for transparency in academia, and the significance of supporting Students of Color in their educational journeys.

Takeaways
Activism and academia can intersect in meaningful ways.
There is a deep responsibility to support Black and Brown graduate students.
Being in community is essential for effective activism.
Balancing personal well-being with activist work is crucial.
Relationships are foundational to successful community work.
Navigating the Chicago Public Schools system reveals systemic challenges.
Class dynamics significantly impact experiences in academia.
Students of Color need support in navigating higher education.
The struggle for social justice requires sustainable practices.

Sound Bites
"How do we do this and not die?"
"The relationship is the actual work."
"We need to feed folks. We need to pay folks."

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In this episode, Dr. Tiffany M. Nyachae discusses the complexities of reading instruction, emphasizing the need to center the experiences and needs of Students of Color. She critiques both the Science of Reading and balanced literacy approaches for failing to adequately address these needs. Dr. Nyachae advocates for explicit instruction in reading while also recognizing the importance of teacher expertise and the socio-political context of literacy education. She calls for a more nuanced understanding of literacy that goes beyond ideological debates and focuses on practical solutions for teachers and students in racially, ethnically, and economically diverse classrooms.

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