CHAVIS CHRONICLES, THE
#101
As the national Black Lives Matter protest continues to shine a light on what it calls systemic racism and police brutality, combined with the disproportionate impact of the coronavirus on communities of color, this episode of The Chavis Chronicles goes in-depth to reveal how policing, politics and the pandemic are forcing a major paradigm shift in American culture. Guests include: Major Neill Franklin, Executive Director of the Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP); Representative James E. Clyburn (D- SC), Majority Whip, the third-ranking Democrat in the United States House of Representatives and currently serving as the Chairman of the House Select Committee on the Coronavirus Crisis
#102
Dr. Chavis is joined by two esteemed guests in this week’s episode. Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, President of Tennessee State University (TSU), a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and the International President of the Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority, Inc. the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African-American college women, with nearly 300,000 members and over 1000 chapters all over the world. In this climate of increasing urban turmoil, unrest and police shootings of African Americans, Dr. Glover offers TCC viewers insight about the renewed urgency and importance of HBCUs, as well as the influence that the African American Greek-letter organizations (namely the AKAs) will have on the upcoming 2020 election.
Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D. is president of HBCU Howard University in Washington DC., and also a practicing surgeon. As the leader of one of the oldest and most renowned HBCUs, Dr. Frederick reveals his insight regarding the impact of George Floyd’s death, the protests it led to across the world, and the continuing pattern of systemic racism in the U.S. Dr. Frederick’s words about the African American experience feel more urgent than ever. He also discusses how his career as a surgeon has influenced his work as an educator, administrator and champion of underserved communities, and why he believes we may be on the cusp of the next “golden generation.”
#103
In this episode, veteran civil rights activist and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton reflects on the intersection of the Black Lives Matter movement and the three great civil rights acts of the 1960's. Despite those changes, Congresswoman Norton says the vestiges of racism remains embedded in American life. Yet she believes this new, young multicultural generation sees race differently and will demand greater change, just as social justice crusaders fought for over 60 years ago. Also, The Honorable Chokwe Antar Lumumba is making it his mission to transform the city of Jackson, Mississippi into "the most radical city on the planet." Jackson is a city with a rich American history, but it's also plagued by persistent poverty, health disparities, confederate symbols and generations of racist sentiments. By advocating for social and economic change, Mayor Lumumba is determined to transform this 85% African American city into a model of economic optimism.
#104
The NAACP is just one of many national organizations gearing up for a possible historic 2020 Presidential election. Voter suppression and getting out the vote are key issues. Civil rights leader Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. speaks to National NAACP President Derek Johnson about how the nation's largest civil rights organization is moving from protest to power at the ballot box.
#105
COVID-19 laid bare America's need to combat health disparities, especially the disproportionate death toll suffered by African Americans and other communities of color. As the number of coronavirus cases continue to spike across the nation what healthcare strategies and vaccine clinical trials are underway to protect communities of color during this pandemic?
The Chavis Chronicles will address these issues with two leading public health physicians, Dr. Reed Tuckson, former Senior Vice President for Professional Standards of the American Medical Association and Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick, an infectious diseases physician and CDC-trained medical epidemiologist
#106
Globally renowned scholar, author, preacher and media personality Dr. Michael Eric Dyson discusses the need for America to renounce innocence, privilege, fragility and comfort. Dr. Dyson shares his hopes and fears that if white America does not embrace the need to engage with black, brown and indigenous cultures the US will not live up to her great mission as land of the free. Mississippi Publishers DeAnna Tisdale-Johnson and Jackie Hampton also join the program to discuss the important legacy of the black press and dangers African American publishers faced in the south.
#107
Two nationally acclaimed female leaders discuss the unique ways black women contribute to uplifting America from past to present and especially now during racial protests and the pandemic. Dr. Johnnetta Cole, Chair and President, of the National Council of Negro Women and Dr. Lezli Baskerville, President of the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education join the Chavis Chronicles to share their unique perspectives on staying strong and keeping hope alive during these uncertain times.
#108
In times of crisis we historically turn to music. From the tragedies of war, to the perseverance of civil rights freedom fighters to today's coronavirus pandemic, music continues to give us a sense of hope and solace. On this episode of The Chavis Chronicles several musical artists share why they believe inspirational songs can provide an antidote to the growing feelings of isolation and fear brought on by COVID-19 and racial unrest. Grammy award winning artists Juan and Lisa Winans and new breakout artist Toneshia Harris also perform some of their inspirational hit songs.
#109
White supremacist groups pose the largest threat out of any domestic extremist group in the US, according to a new Department of Homeland Security report.
This episode of The Chavis Chronicles explores the intersection between white supremacy and the law from the perspective of two racial justice activists. Civil rights attorney William H. Murphy of the legendary Murphy family, founders of one of the oldest black newspapers in the country. We also meet Daryl Davis and learn of his efforts to improve race relations by convincing members of the Ku Klux Klan to leave and denounce the KKK.
#110
Singer, songwriter, and producer Ziggy Marley is an eight-time Grammy and Emmy winner. The son of legendary singer Bob Marley joins The Chavis Chronicles to share inspirations for his new album "More Family Time" created while he was in quarantine during the height of the coronavirus outbreak. Marley says giving children something to be happy about during the pandemic is more important than every before. We also hear from national veteran radio host and civil rights activist Reverend Mark A. Thompson. Thompson discusses what's on the horizon for America and the new civil justice movement in 2021.
#111
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms was recognized by Glamor Magazine as one of the 2020 Women of the Year. She is also one of the most influential and admired women in America. In this episode of The Chavis Chronicles we share in depth and candid conversations about the life, family and career of Mayor Bottoms. Dr. Chavis also interviews former Washington Post editor and award-winning documentary film producer Chris Jenkins. Jenkins’ film entitled “Trapped: Cash Bail in America” uncovers the tragedies and injustice of America’s cash bail system and how it disproportionately impacts the poor and communities of color. The feature length documentary exposes how every night, across America over 500,000 U.S. citizens are imprisoned simply because they don’t have enough money to pay their bail even before they are convicted of a crime.
#112
Grammy award winning artist Anthony Brown is lighting up the Gospel Music community. Brown has collaborated with legendary award winning performers such as Stevie Wonder, Donnie McClurkin, Fred Hammond and more. Brown reflects on the pandemic, social unrest, police brutality and how he is committed to using his music as a platform to speak out about injustice. Dr. Chavis is also joined by prominent attorney A. Scott Bolden. Bolden is a leading government and trial lawyer with a long family history in the civil rights movement. Bolden shares top issues that will be addressed by the Supreme Court in 2021 and why America's promise of freedom justice and equality can never be reached without eliminating racism.
#113
Doctor and philanthropist Larry Caplan has dedicated his life's work to ensuring access to high quality health care for our military community, underserved schools and more. His charity has prepared thousands of students in low income communities for careers in health care. At the height of the pandemic COVID-19 claimed the lives of Dr. Caplan's father and father-in-law. He shares his professional and personal insights on how to best protect against coronavirus and the flu. Also appearing on the program is Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever, an award-winning author, international speaker, political commentator, and race and gender empowerment expert. Dr. Jones-DeWeever shares her political insights on how America's turbulent political divide has set the country on an unalterable course of cultural change.
#114
Dr. Chavis speaks in depth with Mildred D. Muhamad, one of the nation's top advocates against domestic violence. Muhamad is a certified consultant with the U.S. Department of Justice and global consultant for the U.S. Department of State for the Office of Victims of Crime. She is also the ex-wife of the DC sniper. Muhamad says domestic violence incidents have increased significantly since the COVID-19 outbreak. She provides advice on how victims can survive the epidemic of domestic violence exacerbated by the pandemic. Dr. Chavis also explores the marriage of the two great movements, civil rights and labor with UAW President Rory Gamble. Gamble also reveals the new role labor is playing in the rapidly evolving manufacturing technologies landscape.
#115
Three leading reporters representing the Black press in America discuss the most critical issues facing Americans in 2021, from coronavirus and the high mortality rates of people of color who contract COVID-19, to the likelihood of passage of a new voting rights act, and slavery reparations legislation.
#116
Award winning actor, director and playwright Rubin Hudson is best know for his role as Captain Roy Montgomery on the hit TV series Castle. Hudson joins The Chavis Chronicles to talk about his journey in the entertainment industry, his new movie, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom starring Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, and how COVID-19 has impacted the entertainment industry. Wanda Durant also joins the program to discuss her foundation and how her work raising two champions in the sports world prepared her to be a champion for underserved women and children.
#117
Dr. Chavis discusses drinking water safety, contamination and the intersection of race, with leading environmental justice attorney Morgan Johnson, and meets with Rep.G.K. Butterfield, Us House Chief Deputy Whip (D-NC) to discuss issues facing the 117th Congress.
A growing body of research reveals that lower income communities of color are more likely to endure pollution. Members of the environmental justice movement have sought to give those communities a louder voice. Hundreds of everyday products are made with highly toxic fluorinated chemicals called PFAS. These dangerous chemicals build up in the human body and never break down in the environment. Very small doses of PFAS have been linked to cancer, reproductive damage and other deadly diseases.
#118
Robert Stanton was the first African American to serve as Director of the National Parks Service. Stanton shares with Dr. Chavis his historic career and the majestic history of NPS. Dr. Chavis also learns about author, surveyor and astronomer Benjamin Banneker from Melanie Dance Dengler, Director, and Chandler (Chase) Louden, Docent/Historian of the Benjamin Banneker Museum.
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson created the National Park Service, a new federal bureau in the Department of the Interior responsible for millions of acres of parks and monuments. However establishing a National Park Service (NPS) during the height of segregation was a struggle. While national parks are federal preserves those parks located in states that held tight to Jim Crow laws, fiercely challenged NPS officials in their efforts to treat all visitors equally.
#119
The ongoing police brutality case of Joel Acevedo is another homicide case making its way through the court system. The Acevedo family believes Joel died after being put in a chokehold by an off duty Milwaukee police officer. Dr. Chavis examines the deeper impact of police brutality on communities of color with attorneys Benjamin Crump and B. Ivory Lamarr. In the second segment, Dr. Chavis meets with Vanessa Garrison, the co-founder of GirlTrek, the largest public health nonprofit for African American women and girls in the United States. The mental health impact of COVID-19 has been devastating in numerous ways. This powerful nonprofit organization is mobilizing women and girls to help them improve their physical and mental health, through a civil rights inspired health movement. With more than 1 million members GirlTrek encourages women to use walking as a practical first step to inspire healthy living.
#120
Despite the release of three vaccines to combat the coronavirus pandemic, African Americans, Latinx and other communities of color continue to face a disproportionately higher degree of exposure to the deadly virus. In this episode, Dr. Chavis interviews Dr. Colleen Payne-Nabors, founder and owner of one of the nation's leading companies administering Covid-19 testing. Dr. Payne-Nabors explains why COVID 19 testing remains one of the most
effective weapons in the fight to slow the spread of the deadly disease and new variants. Also featured on the program is Pastor Richard Hartley. Reverend Hartley has had a prolific career as a singer and musical director, traveling across the world to work with choirs and musical icons such as Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion, and Diana Ross. The father of two and star in the hit reality TV show The Rev shares highlights of his successful career with Dr. Chavis.
#121
Actor and three time Grammy nominated singer the Reverend Deitrick Haddon pastor of Hill City Church in Los Angeles is using his music and ministry in a unique way to help the public survive the pandemic. Reverend Haddon talks to Dr. Chavis about his future projects and ways the public can cope after losing loved ones to COVID-19. Also, global thought leader, Harvard University law professor and attorney Dr. Sharon Anderson joins The Chavis Chronicles to discuss the rise of incivility and hate speech in America. Dr. Anderson explores how the loss of civility, where you can say or do anything, is a step toward anarchy.
#122
Distinguished college professor, journalist and podcast host Ray Baker joins The Chavis Chronicles to discuss the future of Black America. Professor Baker and Dr. Chavis investigate the current volatile political environment that is transforming America's social and political landscape. Professor Baker also discusses the historic civil rights struggle of the political prisoners known as the Wilmington 10, which included Dr. Chavis. Also in this episode, world renowned Grammy and Tony award winning singer, writer and actress Stephanie Mills joins Dr. Chavis to share highlights of her long-running career and what's next on the horizon for the legendary performer.
#123
Few previous pandemics have unleashed the level of devastation in disease and death as the coronavirus pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced over $2 billion to address coronavirus-related health disparities in high-risk communities of color. But is this investment in minority and rural communities enough to make a measurable difference to improve health equity and save lives? Dr. Chavis explores the burden of the pandemic on communities of color and emergency solutions that are underway with guests Anesthesiologist and Author Dr. Ebony Jade Hilton and nationally syndicated columnist Dr. Wilmer J. Leon III.
#124
President Biden's infrastructure and economic recovery package totalling more than $2 trillion is loaded with plans to revitalize U.S. transportation infrastructure, water systems, broadband, manufacturing and other goals. How will the president's relief package impact the American public? And in this uncertain financial climate how can the average taxpayer create financial stability? Two of the nation's leading financial experts, Kenneth Kelly, the chairman and CEO of First Independence Bank and appointee to the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, along with Deborah Owens, a financial expert and former vice president with Fidelity Investments join Dr. Chavis to break down the details of the President's sweeping infrastructure plan and ways to improve your financial health.
#125
James A. Samuel Jr, Founder and CEO of Pluribus, Inc. joins Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Jr. to discuss Anjel Tech, a personal security app which functions similar to a personal body camera. Then Dr. Chavis welcomes Arisha Hatch, VP Chief of Campaigns for Color of Change - a nonprofit civil rights advocacy organization. They discuss racial justice organization and activism using online resources to advance solutions that can transform our world.
#126 (temporary description)
Dr. Chavis welcomes Lorna Mae Johnson, Founder of Lorna M. Johnson Global Institute. Ms. Johnson is a nurse who created a non-profit to help lower disparities in health care. She specifically assists pregnant women of color to combat high levels of infant mortality in black and brown communities. Dr. Chavis also interviews Dariese Jones, Educator, Journalist, and former Baltimore City Assistant Principal. Ms. Jones will discuss her hands on experience as an educator dealing with the impact on COVID-19, mothers who were forced to become teachers, the challenges of children struggling with the digital divide and childhood PTSD from an increase in gun violence.
#127
Since 1945, EBONY magazine has shined a spotlight on excellence in the Black community. Dr. Chavis talks with author Lavaille Lavette one of the leaders of the magazine about its rich history and mission to instill pride in African American culture in the midst of an intense and growing outcry for social justice reform.
#128
Dr. Chavis discusses the Tulsa Race Massacre with Julianne Malvaux, Ph.D Economics, Founding Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at California State University at Los Angeles. Also joining Dr. Chavis to discuss reparations and her new book “Black Power, Black Lawyer” is Nkechi Taifa,Attorney, President of the Taifa Group and Senior Fellow at Columbia University’s Center for Justice.
#129
Health professionals are fighting a dual pandemic, Covid 19 and racial injustice. Joining Dr. Chavis to discuss what's being call the twindemic in America is Mondale Robinson, Founder of the Black Male Voter Project and Meedie Bardonelli, Chair of the Washington DC Board of Nursing.
#130
Journalists working on the front lines covering news during the COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging. However, African American journalists face the additional responsibility of covering systemic racism from a deeper perspective. Dr. Chavis discusses these challenges with two leading journalists, Ebony McMorris, White House correspondent, American Urban Radio Networks and Barbara Reynold, Award-winning journalist and author who was mentored by legendary civil rights leader, Coretta Scott King.
#131
Despite the tremendous weight and challenges facing Millennials, Maryland Representative Gabriel Acevero, one of the youngest elected official in the United States shares with Dr. Chavis why it's crucial for Millennials to take the baton of national leadership and get into "good trouble." Dr. Chavis also talks with Dr. Veryl Howard, an inductee of the 2021 Women's Songwriters Hall of Fame, the first award that recognizes women songwriters.
#132
Joining Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Jr. in this week’s episode of The Chavis Chronicles is Brandon Camphor, gospel artist, producer, songwriter, and lead singer of the group One Way, who talks about how his faith informs his work. Also, Gospel Access faith and entertainment journalist Traycee Gayles reflects on her work and new book Access Your Greatness.
#133
War continues to expand in the conflict-torn Ethiopian region as the United Nations Human Rights Council calls for a cease fire and an end to the atrocities. Dr. Chavis speaks with Meaza Gebremedhin, an international relations specialist and native of Tigray, Ethiopia about the fate of innocent people in her homeland and the international implications of the on-going civil war. Then, Dr. Chavis speaks with Victor Valentine executive director of the National Human Services Assembly about the need for greater racial equity, diversity and inclusion in corporate America and within the national non-profit community.
#134
Comedian, Writer and Actor Tony Woods joins Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. and talks about a life in comedy and the struggles of black comedians. Then, Kymone Freeman, writer, activist and co-founder of We Act Radio discusses using media and technology as a means for attaining social justice, and creating a more literate community.
#135
Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, leader of Repairers of the Breach and the Poor People's Campaign, joins Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. to discuss voter suppression, the current state of poverty and more.
Then, Dr. Chavis is joined by Antone Barnes for his perspective on how professional athletes can transition out of their sports careers and into new fields, and the growing awareness of mental health needs for athletes.
#136
In this episode of The Chavis Chronicles, civil rights leader the Rev. Jesse Jackson and Attorney Barbara Armwine join Dr. Chavis to discuss critical social justice issues before Congress, as well as what's on the immediate horizon for the inclusion, diversity and equality movement in the U.S. and worldwide. Also joining the program is Munson Steed, CEO and owner of one of the largest African-American-owned weekly newspaper chains in the country.
#137
In this episode Dr. Chavis interviews surgeon and medical professor Dr. Julius Garvey. Dr. Garvey is the only living son of Marcus Garvey, political activist, publisher, entrepreneur and first President-General of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities Leagues. Dr. Garvey shares historic insights and little know facts about his famous father and the Pan-Africanism movement. Also joining the program is Vanessa R. Williams, Secretary General of The Conference of Black Mayors which represents 32,000 Black mayors worldwide.
#138
Black entertainers and singers have utilized their fame and influence for decades to call out oppression. Grammy nominated singer and songwriter Raheem Devaughn joins Dr. Chavis to discuss how he's using his music to push for social justice. Also, singer Reigndrop Lopes shares why she's dedicating her life to keeping the legacy of her famous sister Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes alive. Lisa Lopes was a member of TLC, one of the best selling female groups of all time.
#139
Ethiopian Ambassador Fitsum Arega reports on the progress of the nation of Ethiopia and the prospects for critical economic development in Northern Africa. Also, US congresswoman Debbie Dingell provides an update on the latest issues in front of Congress, and discusses the importance of sisterhood and friendship.
#140
Homelessness is one of our nation’s most misunderstood and devastating social problems. The pandemic is making homelessness more visible in many U.S. cities. Oscar winning filmmaker, actress and social justice advocate Kelly Kali addresses the rise of homelessness among women and young children in America. The interest in crypto currency is skyrocketing. Dr. Chavis dives into the future of digital currency and blockchain technology with cryptocurrency expert Link Greene.
#140
Voting is one of the most fundamental features of our democracy — so fundamental and sacred that Black Americans risked their lives to fight for their right to cast a ballot. Hundreds of activists were nearly killed marching from Selma to Montgomery for fair voting laws. Today multiple states are enacting more restrictive voting laws to prevent possible voter fraud. Dr. Chavis has an in-depth conversation with Latosha Brown and Cliff Aldrich, founders of the advocacy group Black Voters Matter. The activists discuss the critical battle ahead on the state and federal level to protect voter rights.