Black Voices Matter Podcast

Episode 111: Black Media: Good, Bad, or Mid? (Season1 Finale)

Host: Kyron Ryals, Manny Smith, and Camari Ellis Episode Description: Join us for a special live recording of Black Voices Matter at Radio Kismet, in collaboration with the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists (PABJ). In this episode, we explore the current state of Black media, its challenges, and its successes. Is Black media a positive force for the community, or does it still have room for growth? Our panel of hosts and guests engage in lively debates, tackling issues around media literacy, journalism standards, and the role of Black creatives in the evolving media landscape. The conversation also touches on the influence of mainstream media outlets, the rise of digital platforms like The Shade Room, and how these channels are shaping the future of Black representation in news and entertainment. Are platforms like The Shade Room and TMZ evolving into more credible journalistic spaces, or are they fueling misinformation? Key Discussion Points: 1. Black Media: Good, Bad, or Mid? - Hosts and audience share their opinions on whether Black media is serving the community well, or if it needs to evolve further. 2. The Evolution of The Shade Room – Exploring the platform's potential shift toward serious journalism and its role in Black media today. 3. Is Black Representation Enough? – Does having Black faces in mainstream media make a difference, or are these platforms still catering to dominant, non-Black narratives? 4. Media Literacy and Misinformation – The panel delves into the differences between journalism and general media content, and why media literacy is crucial for Black audiences. 5. The Importance of Supporting Independent Black Creators – Why pooling resources and supporting Black media organizations is essential for future growth. Quotes to Highlight: * “There's journalism and there's media. All journalism is media, but not all media is journalism.” - Ernest Owens * “Representation is a big part of what we advocate for at PABJ, but we also need to recognize mainstream media isn’t always for us.” - Manny Smith * “We don't need white mainstream media for the Black community. We have homegrown people who can tell our stories.” - Unkknown

Episode 110: The State of Black Journalism: A Conversation with Dio from Resolve Philly

Hosts: Camari Ellis & Manny Smith Guest: Dio, Associate Editor of Community Narratives at Resolve Philly Episode Summary: In this episode of Black Voices Matter, Camari and Manny are joined by Dio, a leading voice in community-centered journalism. Dio shares her journey into journalism, her work with Resolve Philly, and the importance of bridging the gap between community and local media. The conversation dives into the role of Black journalists in media, the need for narrative empowerment, and the challenges faced by the Black community in controlling their own stories. This lively discussion also touches on the cultural and systemic challenges in newsrooms, the need for more diverse voices, and the role of capitalism in shaping narratives. Key Topics Discussed: 1. Introduction to Dio and Resolve Philly: * Dio’s role at Resolve Philly as the Associate Editor of Community Narratives. * Resolve Philly’s mission to bridge the trust divide between local media and the communities they serve through community engagement initiatives. 2. Dio’s Journey to Journalism: * Dio’s early disillusionment with journalism and how she rediscovered her passion through community-centered journalism. * Her unique title, “Op-Ed Shepherd,” which reflects her role in helping community members tell their stories. 3. The Role of Community Journalism: * The concept of “community-powered journalism” as the future of the industry. * The challenges of maintaining journalistic integrity while navigating profit-driven media models. 4. Defining "Capital J" Journalism vs. "Lowercase j" Journalism: * The distinction between formal, credentialed journalism and community storytelling. * The gatekeeping mechanisms that prevent marginalized voices from being heard in traditional media spaces. 5. Narrative Empowerment and Op-Ed Writing: * Dio’s work in empowering individuals to tell their own stories through op-eds and first-person narratives. * Success stories of community members who have had their voices amplified through Resolve Philly’s partnerships with local newsrooms. 6. Black Representation in Newsrooms: * The importance of having Black journalists and editors in positions of power to ensure coverage of Black communities is fair and accurate. * The debate over whether more diverse voices in newsrooms automatically leads to better representation for Black communities. 7. Capitalism and Journalism: * A deep discussion on how capitalism influences the media and whether it serves or hinders the empowerment of Black voices. * Dio’s perspective on the intersection of capitalism and community storytelling, and how the system often perpetuates oppression. Memorable Quotes: * “What defines a capital J journalist? And why are there gatekeeping mechanisms that keep community voices out?” — Dio * “We’re not just talking about journalism. We’re talking about telling our stories unapologetically and freely, without fear of retribution.” — Camari * “I believe that the landscape of journalism is flattening, and the power to tell stories is moving away from the gatekeepers.” — Dio Resources Mentioned: * Resolve Philly – A nonprofit newsroom focused on community engagement and narrative empowerment. * Op-Ed Project – A project aimed at amplifying underrepresented voices in media. How to Connect with Dio: * Email: Dionysia@resolvephilly.org * Learn more about Dio’s work at Resolve Philly by visiting their website resolvephilly.org [https://resolvephilly.org].

Episode 109: The Power of Black Literature & Creativity: Featuring Janine Cook of Harriet’s Bookshop

Hosts: Manny Smith & Camari Ellis Special Guests: * Janine Cook - Shopkeeper at Harriet’s Bookshop, Ida’s Bookshop, and Josephine’s Bookshop. * Kyron Ryals - Filmmaker and Photographer. Key Topics Covered: 1. Introduction to Black Creativity: * Manny and Camari discuss the evolving role of Black creatives and the intersection of passion and purpose. * Camari highlights the importance of nighttime productivity and creative processes, noting that Black voices often emerge from deep, personal reflection. 2. Janine Cook’s Bookshop Journey: * Janine shares her journey of establishing Harriet’s Bookshop in Philadelphia, Ida’s Bookshop in New Jersey, and the traveling Josephine’s Bookshop in Paris. * The transformative nature of her bookshops, designed to inspire visitors and bring Black literature to life, is discussed. * Janine explains her vision of keeping books alive in a time of censorship and control, emphasizing the cultural and social impact of Black literature. 3. The Importance of Storytelling in Black Communities: * The significance of passing down stories in Black culture, from oral traditions to modern storytelling through literature and creative mediums. * Camari and Kyron share their perspectives on how storytelling shapes Black identity and provides spaces for critical thought and community dialogue. * The episode discusses how media, from Ebony and Jet magazines to today's digital platforms, connects Black communities through shared experiences and narratives. 4. Empowering the Next Generation of Creatives: * Janine speaks passionately about her work with youth and how her bookshops employ young people, giving them a sense of responsibility and purpose. * The conversation delves into the importance of providing opportunities for Black youth, especially in creative fields, and nurturing future leaders. 5. Iconic Black Literature and Legacy: * Janine, Camari, and Manny discuss the enduring relevance of classic works like "The Color Purple" and how these stories resonate across generations. * The episode highlights Black literary icons such as Toni Morrison and Alice Walker, emphasizing the need to honor and uplift their contributions to the culture. 6. Janine’s Upcoming Projects: * Janine hints at her upcoming book, tentatively titled "Shut Up and Read," which explores the power of silence and reflection in a noisy world. * She reflects on her personal journey of journaling, creative expression, and the importance of listening to oneself and one's ancestors. Quotes to Remember: * “Stories are medicine. I’m a medicine woman, and that’s why I’m sharing these stories.” – Janine Cook * “We are walking, living, and breathing legacies. And our job is to be, authentically.” – Camari Ellis * “We are creating history right now, while also writing our future.” – Manny Smith Resources Mentioned: * Harriet's Bookshop, Ida’s Bookshop, Josephine’s Bookshop: Bringing Black literature to communities in non-traditional spaces. * Laureen Carey’s book ‘Lady Sitting’ and upcoming play adaptation. * Toni Morrison, Alice Walker – Celebrating Black literary giants. * Bookshop Events: Janine’s work with Will Smith, Jerry Seinfeld, and Michelle Obama.  Follow Black Voices Matter:  Twitter: @BlackVoicesPOD

Episode 108: Do Black and Brown Votes Matter in The 2024 Presidential Election

In this timely episode of Black Voices Matter, hosts Manny McDonald Smith and Camari Ellis dive deep into the pivotal question: "Do Black and Brown votes matter in the upcoming 2024 Presidential Election?" With the political landscape heating up, this episode explores the historical and present-day significance of Black and Brown communities in shaping U.S. elections. Camari and Manny tackle critical topics, including: * The dwindling support for President Biden among Black and Hispanic voters, and what this shift could mean for the 2024 election. * The impact of political figures like Stacey Abrams and their efforts to rally marginalized communities. * How past elections, from Obama to Trump, continue to influence the political dynamics of today. * The crucial role of political education within Black and Brown communities and the challenges of misinformation. * A deep dive into the importance of organizing the Black vote to create tangible political power. The hosts also reflect on key political events, such as the impact of the January 6th insurrection and the role of law enforcement and justice in Black communities, as well as broader systemic issues like education, healthcare, and police reform. Kamari passionately argues for the importance of voting blocks and strategic voting, drawing from the words of Malcolm X. Manny, as an Independent voter, brings a unique perspective on the complexities of navigating today's political system. Both emphasize the necessity of community organization and engagement to leverage real power in 2024. Key Discussion Points: * The Biden-Trump rematch: How will it affect Black and Brown voters? * The importance of political representation and media, featuring a shout-out to Philly's own Kristen Welker of NBC's Meet the Press. * The strategic necessity of voting in every election, not just presidential ones, to impact local and national issues like education, policing, and healthcare. * Obama’s legacy and whether his presidency met the expectations of Black Americans. What do you think are the top two issues Black voters should focus on for the 2024 presidential election? Let us know by emailing us at BlackVoicesMatter1@gmail.com. We want to hear your voice and continue this crucial conversation. Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts, and stay tuned for more discussions amplifying the power of Black and Brown voices.

Episode 105: The Kwanzaa Episode

Black Voices Matter Podcast - Episode Show Notes Episode Title: Understanding Kwanzaa - Traditions, History, and Controversies Hosts: Camari Ellis & Manny Smith (aka Messy Manny) Special Guest: Kyron Ryals Overview: In this engaging episode of Black Voices Matter, Camari Ellis, Manny Smith, and special guest Karan Ross delve into the traditions, history, and controversies surrounding Kwanzaa. They explore the principles of Kwanzaa, discuss personal experiences and perspectives, and address the significance of Black cultural holidays. The episode aims to show why Kwanzaa is celebrated and the challenges it faces in gaining broader acceptance.