Dispatches from The Sunken Place: How Horror Keeps Us Safe

Dispatches from The Sunken Place: How Horror Keeps Us Safe

This October, the Charlotta Bass Lab is asking: Where does the mind go for protection? This episode explores how the Black Horror Renaissance—from Jordan Peele's Get Out to Ryan Coogler's Sinners—goes beyond entertaiment, transforming into works of subtle activism. By inverting the monster movie and revealing the monsters lurking in society, this style of horror not only processes our collective anxiety but helps us acknowledge and survive the real threats. We dive deep into the meaning of this genre shift, discuss the historical roots of monster fear, and feature an excerpt from an interview with filmmaker Tevin Tavares on witnessing the daily horror of displacement in Los Angeles.

The Politics of Repatriation: When History Becomes a Target

In a climate of shifting national policies, some of our most important historical institutions are being targeted. This summer marked the beginnings of an unsettling trend our national museums: artifacts being "repatriated" in a deliberate attempt to re-write the past. We hear from Tasheni Mpundu about the changes she's witnessed at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, including the removal of key artifacts like Solomon Northup's "12 Years a Slave" exhibit. But this story isn't just about what's being lost. We also feature a conversation with Bass Lab archivist Laura Walton, who discusses our artifact preservation project, launched in partnership with AfroLA. This initiative empowers individuals to proactively document and preserve their own histories, providing a powerful response to institutional neglect. Join us as we explore what organizations and individuals can do when cultural aversion becomes a form of historical violence and learn how a community-led effort is fighting back.

Rooted in Recovery: Altadena's Exodus

In the final part of "Rooted in Recovery," reporter Yvonne Abedi explores migration and how it could potentially reshape the Los Angeles food landscape. Her coverage highlights a resident, Silvera Grant, who is firm in his stance to stay, although he's aware many will leave. Additionally, Abedi examines migration as a framework for cultural resilience and how Black food culture plays a direct role in not only preserving, but spreading traditions.

Rooted in Recovery: Smoke & Mirrors

Part 2 of "Rooted in Recovery" provides an intimate look at the unique challenges faced by the Eaton fire's survivors as they attempt to rebuild. Reporter Mycah Hart-Powell speaks with community organizers, city planners, and Alejandra Diaz, a counselor at the still-standing John Muir High School. This episode particularly highlights the resilience of the Altadena community as it not only navigates the complex federal systems of aid, but creates their own systems of support.

Rooted in Recovery: After the Smoke Clears

In part 1 of "Rooted in Recovery," reporter Daniella Lake captures the aftermath of the Eaton Fire prioritizing firsthand accounts. The episode also explores the powerful parallels with the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921, unearthing a shared legacy where fire ravaged a thriving Black community. This exploration of personal testimony and historical connection weaves together a narrative of mourning, the importance of memory, and the ongoing journey toward resilience. (Episode photo courtesy of Pastor Andre Wilson)