Episodes

  • Episode 265: Post Election Resilience

    Episode 265: Post Election Resilience
    Nov 13 2024
    The outcome of the 2024 election has left so many of us feeling a mix of emotions, from disappointment to determination, but as L. Joy always says, “civics doesn’t begin and end of Election Day”. In this week’s episode L. Joy offers a simple reassurance: these feelings are natural, but they need not define us. One election does not determine our commitment to a more equitable society. This is an opportunity for resilience and a renewed focus on what truly matters.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 264: Election 2024 Closing Thoughts

    Episode 264: Election 2024 Closing Thoughts
    Nov 5 2024
    We are hours away from the culmination of the 2024 election season and L. Joy invites the Sunday Civics community to the front of the class to share closing thoughts before Election Day. She begins with a heartfelt open letter of appreciation to poll workers and election administrators. These unsung heroes are vital to the democratic process, working tirelessly to ensure our elections run smoothly. In a departure from the usual format, this segment invites a range of voices from across the nation to share their feelings as election day approaches. From optimism and excitement to anxiety and hope, these personal accounts offer a comprehensive view of the electorate’s mood.
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  • Episode 263: College Uncovered

    Episode 263: College Uncovered
    Nov 5 2024
    In the latest episode L. Joy dives into the intense political conflicts occurring on college campuses across the country. Joined at the front of the class by Kirk Karaza and John Marcus, hosts of NPR's 'College Uncovered' podcast, they discuss protests demanding a ceasefire in Gaza, battles over diversity and inclusion programs, and issues surrounding free speech. The conversation explores the historical context of campus protests, the impact of today's diverse student population, the political climate's influence on higher education, and the importance of civil discourse. Tune in for a thorough examination of how these issues shape the educational experience and broader society.
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  • Episode 262: Voting When You're Not Excited

    Episode 262: Voting When You're Not Excited
    Oct 10 2024
    With election day fast approaching, L. Joy opens up a challenging conversation—what to do when none of the candidates for an elected office inspires you or align perfectly with your views. Last week’s episode addressed voter apathy and how to respond to disengaged voters. This week, L. Joy shifts focus to a dilemma that many voters face: how to engage in an election when none of the candidates seem to represent your issues or values fully. Dr. Michelle Taylor, also known as Dr. Feminista Jones, comes back to the front of the class for this conversation. Then, it’s time for the Arts and Activism segment powered by AKILA WORKSONGS. April R. Silver brings Chief Ayanda Clarke to the front of the class.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 261: Combating Voter Apathy

    Episode 261: Combating Voter Apathy
    Oct 10 2024
    This episode of Sunday Civics, L. Joy tackles voter apathy. It’s an issue that arises every election season but is relevant year-round. She addresses common myths that fuel political disengagement and explains why participation in elections at all levels is crucial. Emphasizing that while voter turnout is higher during presidential elections, it significantly drops during midterms and local elections, leaving critical decisions to a small, active group, L. Joy encourages listeners to combat this by making a voting plan and engaging with non-voters, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and empowering people to vote. Then April R. Silver brings Dr. Tameka Hobbs to the front of the class for the Arts and Activism segment powered by AKILA WORKSONGS.
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  • Episode 260: Get Vote Ready

    Episode 260: Get Vote Ready
    Oct 10 2024
    The “Get Vote Ready: A Journal for the Empowered Voter” is here! The journal is designed as a comprehensive guide to help voters stay informed, organized, and empowered not just for the current election, but for future elections as well. It covers everything from confirming voter registration and learning about candidates to creating personalized voting plans and reflecting on the election experience.
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  • Episode 259: A New Chicago School Board

    Episode 259: A New Chicago School Board
    Oct 10 2024
    With early voting starting soon in several states, she encourages listeners to develop a voting plan tailored to their needs—whether voting by mail, early in-person, or on election day. L. Joy emphasizes the importance of researching state-specific voting rules to avoid last-minute issues and voter suppression challenges. She’s also discussing the historic School Board elections in Chicago and brings journalist Samantha Smylie to the front of the class for that conversation. Then L. Joy introduces the inaugural Arts and Activism segment powered by Akila WORKSONGS, April R. Silver brings Grammy-winning artist and candidate in Chicago’s school board elections, Rhymefest to the front of the class.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Episode 258: The Family

    Episode 258: The Family
    Oct 9 2024
    As we look ahead to the upcoming election cycle, it’s clear that now, more than ever, civic engagement is crucial. In this episode L. Joy focuses on key issues impacting families during the election cycle. Guests at the front of the class include Monifa Bandele, COO and Senior Vice President of Maternal Justice Campaigns at MomsRising Together, and Ailen Arreaza, Executive Director of Parents Together.
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    Less than 1 minute