MCCR: Let's Talk Civilly

Roots of Resistance: From Liberation to the Polls

Why does a law on paper mean nothing without active enforcement? In this episode of Let’s Talk Civilly, MCCR hosts Markyta, Cleveland, and Gabi honor June's dual milestones—Pride Month and Juneteenth—by exploring their shared DNA of resistance and protest. The hosts transition from the revolutionary roots of the Stonewall Riots to the 2.5-year delay of emancipation news in Texas, drawing direct parallels to how civil rights policy is enacted versus how it is practiced today. Later, they tackle the macro and micro threats facing voters, from the national gutting of the Voting Rights Act to immediate public accommodation barriers at local polling places—including ID discrimination against transgender voters and physical hurdles for disabled voters. Finally, find out why skipping local school board and judicial elections directly impacts your neighborhood's daily life. Connect with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights: • Website: mccr.maryland.gov • Have your rights been violated? Reach out to us online or call our local office to file a report. • Don't forget to rate and follow Let's Talk Civilly on all platforms so you never miss an episode!

Dismantling Barriers: A Conversation on AAPI Equity with Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller

What does true representation look like in state government? In Episode 5 of Let’s Talk Civilly, host Cleveland L. Horton sits down with Maryland’s Lt. Governor Aruna Miller to discuss leadership, equity, and civil rights. From her childhood journey arriving in the U.S. at age seven to her historic election, Lt. Governor Miller brings a unique dual perspective as both a civil engineer and policymaker to the frontlines of social justice. Tune in as we address critical challenges facing our diverse communities, including voter disinformation, STEM industry representation, protections for displaced immigrant workers, and the push for gender-neutral terminology in the Maryland Constitution.

A Masterclass in Fair Housing with Sara Pratt

Cleveland Horton (Executive Director of MCCR) and Candice Crenshaw (Director of Education and Outreach at MCCR) both sit down with Sara Pratt, Retiree Counsel at Relman Colfax and former HUD leader, to pull back the curtain on how housing discrimination works today. From the nuances of "direct threats" and reasonable accommodation to the fight against redlining and exclusionary zoning, Sara shares her front-line experience dismantling institutional barriers. Whether you are a housing advocate, a legal professional, or just someone who believes in equitable neighborhoods, this episode offers an essential guide to the past, present, and future of the Fair Housing Act.

Advancing the Needle: A Conversation on Women's Equity with Ariana Kelly

In honor of Women’s History Month, Markyta and Gabi sit down with Ariana Kelly, Executive Director of the Maryland Commission for Women, to discuss the "bold new vision" for the Commission’s 60th year. From her 14-year legacy in the Maryland General Assembly to her current work modernizing state equity policies, Ariana breaks down the "next frontier" of reproductive freedom, the practical impact of new wage transparency laws, and the hurdles remaining in Maryland’s care economy. Join us for a deep dive into how we move beyond annual celebrations toward actionable, intersectional policy change that protects and empowers every woman in the Old Line State. Correction & Editor’s Note: During this episode, it was stated that Verda Welcome was the first Black woman to serve as a State Senator in the United States. While Senator Welcome was a legendary Maryland trailblazer and the first Black woman elected to the Maryland State Senate (in 1962), the first Black woman to serve in a State Senate in U.S. history was actually Cora Brown, who was elected to the Michigan State Senate in 1952. We appreciate the opportunity to clarify this historical milestone as we celebrate the legacy of all women in public service.

Systemic Racism & The Path Forward

We dive deep into the systemic hurdles facing Marylanders today. We recap the highlights from the Protecting Civil Rights During Challenging Times 2026 Symposium at Bowie State University, discuss the historical impact of redlining, and explain why legislative wins like the CROWN Act is vital for workplace equity. Plus, we share a all that MCCR had going on during February! Don't miss us for March!