Studio B:
Conversations, discussion, interviews and roundtables produced in the WGBH studios.
Basic Black
Basic Black After The Broadcast: Disrespecting The Oval Office
(Originally streamed January 27, 2012)
A look at how the State of the Union was received, and a discussion on recent events which illustrate a shocking level of diminished respect for the occupant of the Oval Office.
Basic Black: "Red Tails" and "Find Our Missing"
(Originally broadcast on January 20, 2012)
This week on Basic Black we take a look at recent entertainment media that aims to fill the gap in the African American experience: we’ll examine how the television program “Find Our Missing” focuses on searching for children of color who’ve vanished, and we’ll talk about the new George Lucas film “Red Tails” which looks at the achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II.
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Basic Black After The Broadcast: Who Should Have Created the MLK Memorial?
(Originally streamed January 13, 2012)
After the broadcast the conversation turned to focus on the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial on the National Mall. The Interior Secretary announced that the paraphrased quote referring to Dr. King's remarks about being a "drum major for justice" will be revised to reflect Dr. King's actual words, But the discussion heated up when it came to the topic of who should have been awarded the honor of creating the monument.
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Basic Black Live After The Broadcast: African American Spirituality
(Originally streamed on December 16, 2011)
After the broadcast the conversation on African American spirituality continued.
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Basic Black After The Broadcast: Black Buying Power
(Originally streamed December 9, 2011)
After the broadcast the conversation shifted to focus on the buying power in black communities.
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Basic Black After The Broadcast: Social Media, Occupy, & Hip Hop in the Academy
(Originally streamed November 18, 2011)
After the broadcast the conversation continued to explore how African Americans are using social media, the changes in hip hop culture, and the Occupy Movement.
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Basic Black Live: Revisiting a "High-Tech" Lynching and The Politics of Language
(Originally broadcast on November 11, 2011)
Recently, conservative pundits have characterized the mainstream media’s treatment of Herman Cain as racist, even invoking the “high-tech lynching” image from the Thomas hearings. The left wing responded with charges of hypocrisy.
Do black conservatives really receive different treatment in the media than black liberals? Are liberals no more post-racial than the conservatives, but more subtle about showing it?
Our regular panel is joined by Ulli K. Ryder, Visiting Professor at Brown and Lecturer in Africana Studies, Simmons College; and Lionel McPherson, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Tufts University.
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Basic Black After The Broadcast: Herman Cain, GOP Frontrunner
(Originally streamed November 11, 2011)
After the television broadcast, the conversation continued with an exploration of Herman Cain's continued popularity despite being accused of sexual harassment by several women.
Our panel this week: Callie Crossley, Host of The Callie Crossley Show, 89.7 WGBH Radio; Kim McLarin, Assistant Professor of Writing, Literature, and Publishing, Emerson College; Phillip Martin, reporter, 89.7 WGBH Radio; Ulli K. Ryder, Visiting Professor at Brown and Lecturer in Africana Studies, Simmons College; and Lionel McPherson, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Tufts University.
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Basic Black: Occupy The Hood and Redistricting
(Originally broadcast November 4, 2011)This week on Basic Black we take a look at recent local headlines. We start with Occupy The Hood: what makes it different than the larger Occupy Movement? Later in the show we turn our attention to the subject of redistricting and how it will change Massachusetts political landscape.
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Basic Black After The Broadcast: Young Black Men and Police Encounters
(Originally streamed November 4, 2011)After the broadcast, the discussion wrapped up on the topic of redistricting and turned the conversation to acknowledge the first year anniversary of the killing of Danroy "DJ" Henry and what his says about the challenging relationship (and sometimes fatal encounters) between young black men and the police.
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Basic Black: The Occupy Movement; The Rise of Herman Cain
(Originally broadcast October 28, 2011) Our season premiere features a conversation on the growing Occupy Movement and how people of color are making their voice heard, either by joining the larger movement or its off-shoot, Occupy The Hood.We'll also look at Herman Cain's presidential bid. What accounts for his surge in the polls, and rising popularity among conservatives?
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Basic Black After The Broadcast: Young Black Men and Police Encounters
(Originally streamed November 4, 2011)After the broadcast, the discussion wrapped up on the topic of redistricting and turned the conversation to acknowledge the first year anniversary of the killing of Danroy "DJ" Henry and what his says about the challenging relationship (and sometimes fatal encounters) between young black men and the police.
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Basic Black After The Broadcast: The Death Of Moammar Gadhafi
(Originally streamed October 28, 2011) After the broadcast the conversation continued with a discussion on the death of Moammar Gadhafi and the impact on Barack Obama's standing in foreign policy.more
Basic Black Live: A New Look At the Life of Malcolm X
(Originally broadcast June 24, 2011) A conversation on the recently released biography, Malcolm X: A Life Of Reinvention by Manning Marable.
Marable passed away the weekend before the book's publication. However, provocative revelations about Malcolm X including his early criminal career, his encounters with homosexuality, and his relationship with his wife Betty Shabazz have stirred quite a controversy.
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Basic Black Live: Lessons from the Lives of LeBron James and Oscar Grant
(Originally broadcast July 15, 2010) Basic Black looks at the image of African American men in contemporary society as we explore the similarities and differences in the lives of LeBron James and Oscar Grant.
moreBasic Black Live After The Broadcast: Martin, Malcolm, & Magneto
(Originally streamed July 8, 2011)
After the broadcast, the discussion turned to metaphors and the new summer movie, X-Men: First Class. According to some writers and reviewers, race is the x-factor in the new blockbuster film, which is set in 1962 during the height of the civil rights movement.
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Basic Black Live: The High Stakes of Race & Leadership
(Originally broadcast on July 8, 2011)
Mayor William "Willy" Lantigua of Lawrence, MA is the subject of a recall effort which is gaining momentum. Many in the Latino community are deeply embarrassed by the entire situation, but should they be? From the White House to the State House, should communities of color hold their leaders to a different standard?
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Basic Black: Homosexuality and the Black Community
(Originally broadcast on July 1, 2011)
After a profanity-laced performance earlier this month, comedian Tracy Morgan came under fire for his provocative (some would say hateful) remarks regarding homosexuality. But June 2011 has been a particularly newsworthy month in regards to similar episodes which have prompted a discussion about homophobia in the black community.
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Basic Black After the Broadcast: WILD and the Future of Black Radio in Boston
(Originally streamed on July 1, 2011)After the broadcast, the conversation continued... WILD-AM recently changed its format from R&B music and popular black radio shows like The Tom Joyner Morning Show to Chinese language programming.
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Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Whitey Bulger and Black Boston
(Originally streamed June 24, 2011)After the broadcast, our panel discussed the connections between Whitey Bulger (one of the FBI's 10 Most Wanted who was recently captured in California) and the history of black Boston.
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Basic Black Live: The Link Between Poverty and Crime; Criticizing Obama
(Originally broadcast on May 27, 2011)
Is there a link between poverty and prison? Also, criticism of President Obama comes from unexpected quarters, prompting the question, "How should people of color hold President Obama accountable?" In our online conversation after the broadcast, we discuss the end of an era and the cultural impact of Oprah Winfrey.
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Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Criticizing Obama; The Cultural Impact of Oprah Winfrey
(Originally streamed May 27, 2011)After the broadcast, the discussion turned to Cornel West's recent criticism of President Obama which prompted the question, "How should people of color hold the President accountable?" Later, the conversation turned to explore the cultural impact of Oprah Winfrey, who ended the 25 year run of her television show.
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Basic Black Live: The Freedom Riders and The Call To Civic Action
(Originally broadcast May 20, 2011)May 2011 marks the 50th anniversary of the Freedom Rides. On May 20th we’re celebrating this seminal event in civil rights history and the release of the documentary film, Freedom Riders. Award-winning filmmaker and MacArthur "Genius" grant recipient Stanley Nelson will be our special guest panelist for a discussion on documentary film and the call for civic engagement in the age of social media. more
Basic Black: Local News Headlines
(Originally broadcast on May 13, 2011)This week a discussion on headlines in the local news including the growth of Dorchester, the return of the gambling issue, the call for tougher gun laws, redistricting, and a renewed push for immigration reform.
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Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Redistricting and Casinos in Massachusetts
(Originally streamed on May 13, 2011) After the broadcast, our panel turned to the looming issue of redistricting in Massachusetts and the renewed effort to establish more gambling casinos in the state.
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Basic Black Live: The Death of Osama Bin Laden
(Originally broadcast on May 6, 2011) This week: a discussion the death of Osama bin Laden and whether it has changed the conversation about Barack Obama’s foreign policy and military leadership, as well as his standing in the 2012 election.more
Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Barack Obama and Election 2012
(Originally streamed on May 6, 2011) After the broadcast the conversation continued online with a discussion of Barack Obama and the issues of the 2012 presidential campaign.more
Basic Black Live: US Policy in Africa - and Barack Obama's Birth Certificate
(Originally broadcast on April 29, 2011) This week, a discussion on the US policy in Africa and recent interventions into conflicts on the continent. Later in the show, we'll turn to a conversation on the release of President Barack Obama's long form birth certificate. more
Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Barack Obama's Birth Certificate
(Originally streamed April 29, 2011) After the broadcast, our panel delved into the issue of the release of Barack Obama's long form birth certificate.more
Basic Black Live: The Anniversary of the Gulf Oil Spill and Election 2012
(Originally broadcast on April 22, 2011) This week marks the anniversary of the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig explosion and Gulf Oil spill which resulted in the deaths of 11 crewmen and the worst environmental disaster in the United States. Also, we look at the GOP line-up for the 2012 election.
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Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The GOP Line-Up for Election 2012
(Originally streamed April 22, 2011)After the broadcast, the conversation continued with a discussion about the emerging contenders for the Republican Party and the black vote in election 2012.
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Basic Black Live: The War Between the States and Sharpton v. West
(Originally broadcast on April 15, 2011)
This week marks the official beginning of ceremonies marking the 150th Anniversary of The Civil War. How should African Americans look at the commemorations and historical re-tellings to come? Also, we'll examine the heated exchange between Rev. Al Sharpton and Cornel West over Barack Obama's leadership and whether he's done enough for communities of color. more
Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Rev. Al Sharpton v. Cornel West: Setting the "Black Agenda"
(Originally streamed April 15, 2011)
After the broadcast our panel went beyond the specifics of the heated exchange between Cornel West and Rev. Al Sharpton to discuss President Barack Obama's leadership.
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Basic Black Live: Navigating The Afrosphere
(Originally broadcast on April 8, 2011) This week on Basic Black: The National Conference for Media Reform is being held in Boston this week so we turn our attention to people of color and social media. We’ll discuss how digital media has replaced or enhanced the work of traditional institutions such as churches or civil rights organizations in encouraging/organizing social activism; we’ll also look at recent trends in how African Americans in particular are using social media. more
Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Navigating the Afrosphere (Part II)
(Originally streamed April 8, 2011) After the broadcast the conversation continued as to how digital media has replaced or enhanced the work of traditional institutions such as churches or civil rights organizations in encouraging/organizing social activism; we’ll also look at recent trends in how African Americans in particular are using social media. Later the discussion turned to look at Election 2012 videos by Barack Obama and Tim Pawlenty.
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Basic Black Live: Uncle Tom in the 21st Century
(Originally broadcast on March 25, 2011) Our topic this week: black “authenticity.” Grant Hill of the Phoenix Suns wrote an op-ed piece in the New York Times in response to Jalen Rose, who accused him of being an Uncle Tom when Hill played for the basketball team at Duke University. This episode sparked a heated debate all across the internet; but in a deeper and more important sense, it also touched upon a familiar theme in African American life in regards to the question – what does it mean to be authentically black? And how do class distinctions contribute to the notion of black authenticity? more
Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The Census Results and Massachusetts Communities of Color
(Originally streamed March 25, 2011) After the broadcast, our panelists turned their attention to the recently released census results which showed an increase in the population of people of color in Massachusetts.more
Basic Black: African American Muslims and The Radicalization Hearings
(Originally broadcast on March 18, 2011) A Basic Black conversation: African American Muslims and the Congressional Hearings on Radicalization in Islamic Communities. Were the hearings about minimizing a terror threat or demonizing a specific community?
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Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: African American Muslims in Contemporary Times
(Originally streamed March 18, 2011) After the broadcast, the conversation continued to explore the fulfillment and challenges of being an African American Muslim in the United States.more
Basic Black Live: The Relevance of Black History Month and Sex Education in Public Schools
(Originally broadcast February 25, 2011) The controversy over sex education in public schools; also, as February comes to a close, a discussion on the relevance of Black History Month. We also pause to acknowledge the loss of Say Brother producer Beth Deare, who died earlier this week.more
Basic Black: A Conversation with the Candidates for Boston City Council District 7
(Originally broadcast on February 18, 2011) A Reporter's Roundtable: In conversation with the candidates for Boston City Council District 7.
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Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Boston City Council District 7
(Originally streamed February 18, 2011) After the broadcast the conversation with the candidates for Boston City Council District 7 continued to include issues of public safety and job creation.more
Basic Black Live: The Myths and Realities of the Single Black Woman
(Originally broadcast on February 11, 2011) As we approach Valentine’s Day this Basic Black conversation takes a look at the cultural myths of the single black female: educated, self-sufficient, independent...or lonely, angry and emasculating?
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Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: An African American View of the Democracy Movement in Egypt
(Originally streamed on February 11, 2011) After the broadcast, the panel looked at the democracy movement in Egypt as it relates to African American history and freedom movements.more
Basic Black Live: Taking the History Out Of Black History
(Originally broadcast on February 4, 2011) As we head into Black History Month and the 150th Anniversary year of the Civil War, this Basic Black conversation features a look at recent efforts at revisionism in black history.
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Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Taking The History Out Of Black History
(Originally streamed on February 4, 2011) After the broadcast, the conversation continued to explore the ways in which black history has been reinterpreted for political gain by representatives for conservative causes.more
Basic Black ONLINE Exclusive: On The Sentencing of Chuck Turner
(Originally streamed January 28, 2011) After the broadcast, the discussion continued regarding the three-year prison sentence handed down to Chuck Turner earlier in the week. Turner was convicted on October 29th on federal charges of bribery.more
Basic Black: Reaction to the State of the Union Address and Chuck Turner's Sentence
(Originally broadcast on January 28, 2011) On this episode of Basic Black, our discussion focuses on President Barack Obama's State of the Union address. Later in the show, we turn our attention to the sentence handed down to former Boston City Councilor Chuck Turner.
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Basic Black: A Conversation on Black Theater and "NEIGHBORS"
(Originally broadcast January 21, 2011) On this episode of Basic Black, a conversation about the Company One production of NEIGHBORS. The play is probably most noted for its minstrel characters (black actors in blackface) but it's primary focus is on issues of racism, classism, and identity.more
Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Black Theater & "NEIGHBORS"
(Originally streamed January 21, 2011) After the broadcast, the conversation continued...more
Basic Black Live: Haiti - One Year After The Earthquake
(Originally broadcast January 14, 2011) On this episode of Basic Black, we look at Haiti one year after the earthquake. Later in the broadcast and online, a conversation about the tragic shooting in Arizona last weekend: what part did politcal speech play and how did President Obama approach his role as "counselor" in chief.
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Basic Black Live: Political and Cultural News Opening 2011
(Originally broadcast January 6, 2011) On this episode of Basic Black, we take a look at the work ahead for President Obama and the new Congressional Republican leadership. We'll also discuss early developments in the race for the Boston City Council seat being vacated by Chuck Turner, the sentencing of former State Senator Dianne Wilkerson, Huckleberry Finn and the n-word, the "redemption" of Michael Vick, and the release of the Scott sisters in Mississippi.more
Basic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Cultural News Opening 2011
(Originally streamed on January 6, 2011) After the broadcast, we continued our look at the controversy surrounding the removal of the n-word from Huckleberry Finn, the "redemption" of Michael Vick, and the release of the Scott sisters in Mississippi.more
Basic Black Live: The Black Church in the 21st Century
(Originally broadcast on December 16, 2010) As we head into the Christmas holiday, we want to stop and consider the power of faith and religion as it plays out in the political, cultural, and social life of a community. In essence, the overall question is what is the role of the black church in the 21st century?Joining our regular panel was Rev. William Dickerson of the Greater Love Tabernacle in Dorchester, MA; and Rev. Lawrence Ward of Abundant Life Church in Cambridge, MA.
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Basic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The Black Church in the 21st Century
(Originally streamed on December 16, 2010) After the broadcast, our panel continued to discuss the significance of the black church, its response to homosexuality, and the travail of Bishop Eddie Long.more
Basic Black Live: The Future of the Boston NAACP
(Originally broadcast November 18, 2010) This week Basic Black looks at the future of the Boston NAACP in a conversation with the candidates vying for the presidency of the chapter.UPDATE: On November 29, 2010, Michael Curry won election to the Boston NAACP presidency.
Our panelists: Callie Crossley, host of The Callie Crossley Show, WGBH 89.7; Latoyia Edwards, anchor and reporter, New England Cable News; Phillip Martin, senior investigative reporter, WGBH Radio; and the contenders for leadership of the Boston NAACP: Michael Curry, attorney and activist, and former State Senator, Bill Owens.
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Basic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The Future of the Boston NAACP
(Originally streamed on November 18, 2010) After the broadcast our converation continued with the candidates vying for the presidency of the Boston NAACP.UPDATE: On November 29, 2010, Michael Curry won the election for the Boston NAACP presidency.
Our panelists: Callie Crossley, host of The Callie Crossley Show, WGBH 89.7; Latoyia Edwards, anchor and reporter, New England Cable News; Phillip Martin, senior investigative reporter, WGBH Radio; and the contenders for leadership of the Boston NAACP: Michael Curry, attorney and activist, and former State Senator, Bill Owens.
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Basic Black Live: The State of Black Boston
(Originally broadcast November 11, 2010) This week, Basic Black discusses the findings the recently released report, The State of Black Boston. Our panelists: Barbara Lewis, Director, The Trotter Institute; Latoyia Edwards, anchor and reporter, New England Cable News; Darnell Williams, President and CEO of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts; and Kim McLarin, Assistant Professor, Writing, Literature & Publishing, Emerson College.more
Basic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The State of Black Boston
(Originally streamed November 11, 2010) After the broadcast, our panelists continued the conversation about The State of Black Boston, discussing the issue of job creation and employment opportunities. Our panelists: Barbara Lewis, Director, The Trotter Institute; Latoyia Edwards, anchor and reporter, New England Cable News; Darnell Williams, President and CEO of the Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts; and Kim McLarin, Assistant Professor, Writing, Literature & Publishing, Emerson College.
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Basic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Immigration, Health Care Reform, and Blacks in the Tea Party
(Originally streamed November 4, 2010) After the television broadcast, the conversation continued to cover immigration, health care reform, and tea party inroads into communities of color.
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Basic Black LIVE Broadcast: After The 2010 Elections
(Originally broadcast on November 4, 2010) Basic Black looks at the results of the Massachusetts governor's race and the national midterm elections.more
Basic Black Live: The Massachusetts Race For Governor
Mass Decision 2010: The Race for Governor
(Originally broadcast October 21, 2010) Our panel: Phillip Martin, senior investigative reporter, WGBH Radio; Carlos Henriquez, candidate, 5th Suffolk District; Callie Crossley, host of The Callie Crossley Show, 89.7; Russell Holmes, candidate, 6th Suffolk District; Latoyia Edwards, anchor and reporter, New England Cable News.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Scenes from the "Live Watch"
Originally streamed October 28, 2010 from the WGBH Studios and Atrium. (Pictured: Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz (MA-2nd Suffolk District) and Tiffany Probasco, bureau chief, Boston Fab Empire.)more
Basic Black Live: Countdown To The Massachusetts Race for Governor
(Originally broadcast October 28, 2010) Our panel looks at all the issues in play with less than a week to go before Massachusetts makes its choice for governor.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Politics and The Tragedy in Mattapan
(Originally streamed October 21, 2010) Politics and The Tragedy in Mattapan
moreBasic Black Live: A Conversation on The Black Family
(Originally broadcast on June 3, 2010) This week on Basic Black: a conversation on the curent state of The Black Family.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Tyler Perry & Cultural Portrayals on Film
After the broadcast on January 7, 2010, our panelists continued the conversation delving into a discussion on the portrayal of African Americans in popular culture.
moreBasic Black Live - Youth Violence: Beyond Crime and Punishment
(Originally broadcast June 24, 2010) The emotional, mental, and public health costs of youth violence.
moreBasic Black LIVE: New Leadership and The Unemployment Rate
(Originally broadcast February 11, 2010) Our panelists discuss how to cultivate new leadership in Boston's communities of color; we also take a look at the staggering unemployment rates among African Americans.
Basic Black returns October 21, 2010 with live broadcasts and a panel of the region’s sharpest observers of the current news, events, and topics impacting black communities locally and nationally. A simultaneous live stream at www.basicblack.org gives viewers the opportunity to submit comments and questions in real time during the broadcast.
moreBasic Black LIVE: President Obama in Iraq & Afghanistan
(Originally broadcast May 27, 2010) This week, in advance of the Memorial Day weekend & observances, our panelists take a look at President Obama as commander-in-chief and his execution of the military actions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Issues That Shaped This Season of Basic Black
(Originally streamed July 29, 2010)
moreBasic Black Live: Looking At Race Through Arizona's Immigration Law and the USDA
(Originally broadcast July 29, 2010) For an entire week at the end of July 2010, the story of Shirley Sherrod dominated the news cycle. But what got lost in much of the media firestorm was the government agency at the center of the controversy. Basic Black follows up with a look at the United States Department of Agriculture and its historically turbulent relationship with farmers of color. We’ll also take a look at events surrounding Arizona's immigration law as it goes into effect on July 29th.
moreBasic Black Live: The Images & Realities of Black Women
(Originally broadcast July 22, 2010) Basic Black looks at the image of black women in America from Michelle Obama to Shirley Sherrod.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: On What It Means To Be "Acting White"
(Originally streamed July 22, 2010) After the broadcast our panelists delved into a discussion of the notion of "acting white" based on a recent book by Stuart Buck.
Basic Black returns October 21, 2010 with live broadcasts and a new panel of the region’s sharpest observers of the current news, events, and topics impacting black communities locally and nationally. A simultaneous live stream at www.basicblack.org gives viewers the opportunity to submit comments and questions in real time during the broadcast.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The NAACP vs. The Tea Party
(Originally streamed July 15, 2010) Our panel: Latoyia Edwards, anchor, New England Cable News; Callie Crossley, host of The Callie Crossley Show, WGBH Radio; Phillip Martin, senior investigative reporter, WGBH Radio; and Kim McLarin, writer-in-residence, Emerson College.
moreBasic Black Live: Lessons from the Lives of LeBron James and Oscar Grant
(Originally broadcast July 15, 2010) Basic Black looks at the image of African American men in contemporary society as we explore the similarities and differences in the lives of LeBron James and Oscar Grant.
moreBasic Black Online Exclusive: US Justice Department vs. Arizona
(Originally streamed July 8, 2010) Our panel: Latoyia Edwards, New England Cable News; Phillip Martin, senior investigative reporter, WGBH Radio; Callie Crossley, host of The Callie Crossley Show, WGBH Radio; Maria Burns Ortiz, contributor, ESPN Soccernet; and Kim McLarin, writer-in-residence, Emerson College.
moreBasic Black Live: Race, Geopolitics, and The World Cup
(Originally broadcast July 8, 2010) Our panel: Latoyia Edwards, New England Cable News; Phillip Martin, senior investigative reporter, WGBH Radio; Callie Crossley, host of The Callie Crossley Show, WGBH Radio; Maria Burns Ortiz, writer, ESPN Soccernet; and Kim McLarin, writer-in-residence, Emerson College.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The Cambridge Police Department and Henry Louis Gates
(Originally streamed July 1, 2010)
moreBasic Black Live: Patriotism in the Age of Obama
(Originally broadcast July 1, 2010)
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE - Youth Violence: Beyond Crime & Punishment
(Originally streamed June 24, 2010)
moreBasic Black Live - Youth Violence: Beyond Crime and Punishment
(Originally broadcast June 24, 2010) The emotional, mental, and public health costs of youth violence.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Black Youth and Father's Day
(Originally streamed June 17, 2010) On the importance of fathers...
moreBasic Black Live: Youth Violence in Boston
(Originally broadcast June 17, 2010) This week on Basic Black, a conversation on youth violence prevention strategies.
Basic Black returns October 21, 2010 with live broadcasts and a new panel of the region’s sharpest observers of the current news, events, and topics impacting black communities locally and nationally. A simultaneous live stream at www.basicblack.org gives viewers the opportunity to submit comments and questions in real time during the broadcast.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Boston's Police Department and "Shaming" Alleged Gang Members
(Originally streamed June 3, 2010) After the broadcast panelists discussed the distribution of a flier created by the Boston Police Department aimed at combatting gang violence.
moreBasic Black Live: A Conversation on The Black Family
(Originally broadcast on June 3, 2010) This week on Basic Black: a conversation on the curent state of The Black Family.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The Gulf Coast Oil Spill and CORI Reform
(Originally streamed May 27, 2010) After the broadcast our panelists continued to discuss President Obama's strategies in Iraq & Afghanistan; later the conversation moved into a discussion of the recent developments around CORI (criminal offender records information).
moreBasic Black Live: The Realities of Affirmative Action
(Originally broadcast May 20, 2010) This week on Basic Black we discussed the consideration of affirmative action in the nomination of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The 50th Anniversary of The Pill
(Originally streamed May 20, 2010) This month marks the 50th anniversary of The Pill so after the television broadcast our panel examined the complicated and provocative history of birth control in communities of color.
moreBasic Black Live: A Conversation on Black Masculinity
(Originally broadcast May 13, 2010) An exploration on the meaning of "black masculinity."
Basic Black returns October 21, 2010 with live broadcasts and a panel of the region’s sharpest observers of the current news, events, and topics impacting black communities locally and nationally. A simultaneous live stream at www.basicblack.org gives viewers the opportunity to submit comments and questions in real time during the broadcast.
moreBasic Black ONLINE Exclusive: Black Masculinity - the conversation continues...
(Originally streamed May 13, 2010) After the broadcast our panel continued to explore the meaning of black masculinity in the 21st century.
moreBasic Black Live: Immigration Law Reform & Black/Latino Relations
(Originally broadcast May 6, 2010) This week on Basic Black, we'll take a look at the recent passage of a controversial immigration law in Arizona and the potential wider impact on communities of color. We'll also discuss the current state of African American & Latino relations.
moreBasic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Black/Latino Relations
(Originally streamed May 6, 2010) After the broadcast our panel tackled the controversial issues of conflict and community among African Americans and Latinos.
moreBasic Black Live: The Black Agenda
(Originally broadcast April 29, 2010) This week on Basic Black, our panelists tackle the issue of what should be "The "Black Agenda."
Basic Black returns October 21, 2010 with live broadcasts and a new panel of the region’s sharpest observers of the current news, events, and topics impacting black communities locally and nationally. A simultaneous live stream at www.basicblack.org gives viewers the opportunity to submit comments and questions in real time during the broadcast.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The Black Agenda
(Originally streamed live on April 29, 2010) After the broadcast, our panelists continued to discuss the idea of a "Black Agenda. A remembrance of civil rights icon Dorothy Height and the issue of reparations rounded out the discussion.
moreBasic Black LIVE: Bullying; Environmental Justice
(Originally broadcast on April 22, 2010) Our panel explores the issue of bullying and later in the broadcast, an acknowlegement of Earth Day and the "green economy" in communities of color.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Environmental Activism
Originally produced on April 22, 2010)
moreBasic Black LIVE: The Casino Debate and Communities of Color
(Originally broadcast April 15, 2010) The impact of casino gambling on communities of color in Massachusetts.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Casinos & Communities of Color
(Originally taped April 15, 2010) After the broadcast, our panel discussed what casinos might mean for Deval Patrick's legacy.
moreBasic Black LIVE ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Haitians in Boston After The Earthquake
Originally broadcast April 8, 2010) After the broadcast, our panelists continued the discussion to talk about the impact of the earthquake on Haitians living in Boston.
moreBasic Black LIVE: Haiti - Rebuilding After the Earthquake
(Originally broadcast on April 8, 2010) This week Basic Black discusses the current state of life and rebuilding in Haiti as well as the continuing impact on Boston's Haitian community.
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Basic Black LIVE: The Cultural Significance of Black Film
(Originally broadcast April 1, 2010) This week on Basic Black, our panelists consider the question, "What is "black film"? And later in the show, a look at the importance of Boston's neighborhood libraries.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Boston's Neighborhood Libraries
(Originally broadcast April 1, 2010) After the broadcasst, our panelists discussed the importance of Boston's branch libraries to the surrounding communities.
moreBasic Black Live: The Passage of Universal Health Care Legislation
(Originally broadcast March 25, 2010) This week, Basic Black explores the impact of the passage of universal health care reform legislation - especially its impact on communities of color and the violent reaction from opponents to the legislation.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: The Future of Black Print Media
(Originally broadcast March 25, 2010) After the broadcast, our panelists turned their attention to a recent article about the troubles facing the iconic magazine, Ebony, and whether it signals a crisis for African American print publications.
moreBasic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: A Black Woman's Worth
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Basic Black LIVE: The Right-To-Life Movement & A Woman's Worth
(Originally broadcast on March 18, 2010) On this episode of Basic Black: a look at the right-to-life movement in African American communities and a conversation on a recent report revealing the stunning racial disparities in wealth and the economic value of a black woman.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Tavis Smiley vs. Al Sharpton
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Basic Black LIVE: The Congressional Black Caucus, Faculty Diversity and Tavis vs. Rev. Sharpton
(Originally broadcast February 25, 2010) This week we take a look at the corporate connections of the Congressional Black Caucus, the challenges faced by professors of color in pursuit of tenure, and the public feud between Tavis Smiley and Rev. Al Sharpton.
moreBasic Black ONLINE Exclusive: Black History Month Revisited
(Originally broadcast February 18, 2010) After the broadcast, our panelists continued to discuss the relevance of Black History Month and the challenge of making it relevant for young people.
moreBasic Black LIVE: Black History Month Revisited and The Question of Class
(Originally broadcast on February 18, 2010) This week: A conversation on the relevance of Black History Month and a look at class divisions within the African American community.
moreBasic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Black Leadership and Unemployment
(Originally broadcast February 11, 2010) After the broadcast, our panelists contiued the discussion on cultivating a new generation of leadership and the importance of responsibility, civic participation, and mentoring.
moreBasic Black LIVE: Massachusetts Politics
(Originally broadcast February 4, 2010) Our panelists discuss Senator Scott Brown and the African American community and then take a look at the beginning of the Massachusetts gubernatorial campaign.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Politics and the TARP
(Originally broadcast February 4, 2010) After the broadcast, our panelists discussed the impact President Obama's proposal of a $30 billion initiative that would give small banks more money to make loans to small businesses.
moreBasic Black LIVE: The State of the Union and Haiti Earthquake Coverage
(Originally broadcast January 28, 2010) This week on Basic Black: Our panel reviews President Obama's State of the Union address and examines the media coverage of the earthquake in Haiti.
moreBasic Black LIVE: The State of the Union and Haiti Earthquake Coverage
(Originally broadcast January 28, 2010) This week on Basic Black: Our panel reviews President Obama's State of the Union address and examines the media coverage of the earthquake in Haiti.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: U.S. Senate & Obama's First Year
(Originally recorded January 21, 2010) Our panelists continued the conversation after the television broadcast to delve deeper into the significant moments in Barack Obama's first year as President.
moreBasic Black LIVE: Coakley vs. Brown & A Review of Barack Obama's First Year
(Originally broadcast January 21, 2010) This week our panel takes a look at the outcome of the Massachusetts special election for U.S. Senate; later in the program, a review of President Barack Obama's first year in office.
moreBasic Black LIVE: The Earthquake in Haiti
(Originally broadcast January 14, 2010) Basic Black takes a look at the devastating earthquake in Haiti and the response of New England’s Haitian community with our panelists: Writer Kim McLarin, political consultant Tito Jackson, New England Cable News reporter Latoyia Edwards, Rep. Marie St. Fleur, and Davarian Baldwin, professor of American Studies, Trinity College.
Also, a discussion on Tuesday’s upcoming special election to fill the late Senator Ted Kennedy's seat and thoughts on the meaning of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Basic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Haiti, US Senate, & MLK
(Originally recorded January 14, 2010) After the broadcast our panelists continued the conversation with a discussion on the upcoming special election to fill the late Senator Ted Kennedy's seat and thoughts on the meaning of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Our panelists: Rep. Marie St. Fleur, Latoyia Edwards from NECN, writer Kim McLarin, and professor Davarian Baldwin.
moreBasic Black Live: Profiling for Terrorists & Cultural Portrayals
(Originally broadcast January 7, 2010) Basic Black kicks off 2010 with a look at the thwarted terror attempt on Christmas Day and the implications for racial and religious profiling. We'll also discuss the continuing struggle for accurate cultural portrayals by looking at reecnt movies, Tiger Woods, and Tyler Perry.
Basic Black LIVE: Religion, Politics & Tiger Woods
(Originally broadcast December 17, 2009) ‘Tis the season... so our theme this week is religion — specifically the politics of religion. By examining several examples over the past year (from the political activism of white evangelicals to, most recently, the role of black ministers in the Boston mayoral election), our conversation will explore what can happen at the intersection of religion and politics. Additionally, we'll take a look at race and Tiger Woods.
moreBasic Black Live ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Religion, Politics & Tiger Woods
‘Tis the season... so our topic this week is religion — specifically the politics of religion. In this ONLINE EXCLUSIVE, our conversation continued after the broadcast to explore what can happen at the intersection of religion and politics. Our panelists also continued to discuss the race angle in the Tiger Woods saga.
moreBasic Black ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: A Focus On Health Issues
(Originally broadcast/streamed on November 19, 2009) In this episode of Basic Black the focus is on health. After the broadcast concluded our panelists continued to discuss the impact of pending health care legislation on communities of color.
moreBasic Black LIVE: A Focus on Current Health Issues
(Originally broadcast on November 19, 2009) In this episode of Basic Black the focus is on health. We'll take a look at the high rates of the H1N1 virus among African Americans and Latinos. We'll also discuss the status of health care reform and the impact of new legislation on communities of color.
moreBasic Black Live: Images of African American Women & The Economy
(Originally broadcast November 12, 2009) The first topic on the show is a discussion of the image of African American women using several recent examples from popular culture including the premiere of the movie Precious. Our second topic examines the staggering 15% unemployment rate in black communities.
moreBasic Black: 2009 Local Elections & Gay Rights vs. Civil Rights Movement
(Broadcast on November 5, 2009) Our first topic will be a discussion of the outcome of Massachusetts history making elections in the cities of Boston, Newton, and Lawrence.
moreBasic Black ONLINE Exclusive: Gay Rights and the Civil Rights Movement (November 5, 2009)
After the television broadcast, our panelists continued to explore the intersection of the gay rights movement and the modern civil rights movement.
moreBasic Black: The Power of Boston's Black Vote
(Broadcast on October 29, 2009) Basic Black looks at the impact of the black vote on Boston’s upcoming elections for City Council At-Large, Mayor and U.S. Senate. Will black voters turn out to the polls? How are the candidates answering needs of communities of color? Which senate candidate is really carrying the torch of Ted Kennedy’s legacy in championing civil rights. And we look at the potential for history to be made in the City Council At-Large race as one of the candidates is poised to become the first African American woman to hold the seat.
moreBasic Black Live: Racist Dialogue or Reasoned Debate?
(Originally broadcast October 22, 2009) “There is an African American who is at the very apex of the government in the United States. And with such change, of course there’s going to be discontent… So frankly, I’m surprised there hasn’t been more pushback… more out and out racism in the streets of America!” declares Randall Kennedy.
Basic Black returns October 21, 2010 with live broadcasts and a new panel of the region’s sharpest observers of the current news, events, and topics impacting black communities locally and nationally.
moreJon Jeter
"Globalization is an international shakedown, and its targets are ordinary people across the globe..." declares Jon Jeter in his new book, Flat Broke in the Free Market: How Globalization Fleeced Working People.
moreWalter Mosley: On Writing and Politics
In this interview author Walter Mosley talks about his latest mystery, The Long Fall; his decision to focus on black male heroes; and his hopes for the Obama presidency.
moreBasic Black LIVE
The July 16 episode explores the future of the Bay State Banner, the relevance of the NAACP, and media coverage of Michael Jackson's death and memorial. (Originally broadcast July 16, 2009)
moreBasic Black LIVE
Basic Black discusses the arrest of renowned Harvard University professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. at his home in Cambridge, Mass. (Originally broadcast July23, 2009)
moreBasic Black LIVE
Panelists discuss the state of diversity in Massachusetts and the week in news in a LIVE edition of Basic Black. (Originally broadcast on July 30, 2009)
moreTavis Smiley and Cornel West
Tavis Smiley and Cornel West join Kim McLarin for a provocative conversation on race, black leadership, and accountability.
moreCapturing Black Life: A Conversation with Photo Historian Deborah Willis
Photographer and photo historian Deborah Willis discusses her life and work.
moreSearching for Sally Hemings: A Conversation with Author Annette Gordon-Reed
2010 MacArthur "Genius" Award recipient Annette Gordon-Reed. (Originally broadcast January 8, 2009) Before winning the MacArthur award, Professor Gordon-Reed sat down for a lengthy interview on Basic Black to discuss her book, The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family.
moreJazz and Rock Drummer Cindy Blackman
Basic Black host Kim McLarin speaks with jazz and rock drummer Cindy Blackman.
morePoetry & Conversation with Afaa Michael Weaver
Poet Afaa Michael Weaver talks about the life stories that inspire his work.
more2008 Postelection Roundtable
Joining guest host Callie Crossley to discuss Barack Obama's election to the presidency are Massachusetts State Representative Linda Dorcena Forry, former ABC News anchor and senior correspondent Carole Simpson, Peniel Joseph, associate professor of Africana studies at Brandeis University, and Howard Manly, executive editor of the Bay State Banner.
moreBasic Black: 2008: The New Black Politics
Basic Black premieres its 41st season with this live election special, featuring a roundtable discussion hosted by television and radio commentator Callie Crossley.
moreElection 2008: After the Last Primary
moreAuthor Randall Kennedy
Author Randall Kennedy ("Sellout") is the guest.
moreChoreographer Bill T. Jones
Choreographer Bill T. Jones is the guest.
morePoet Major Jackson
Major Jackson reads from his book of poetry Hoops and discusses the inspiration behind his work as well as his thoughts on how American history has influenced the work of generations of African American poets.
morePoet Elizabeth Alexander
Elizabeth Alexander reads from American Sublime, and her latest collection, Miss Crandall's School for Young Ladies and Little Misses of Color. Alexander was selected to compose and read a poem at Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony; she is the fourth poet in history to have been chosen for the honor.
moreTracy Sharpley-Whiting
Author Tracy Sharpley-Whiting discusses her book, Pimps Up, Ho's Down which explores the intersection of feminism, race, and hip-hop and the ramifications of marketing images that denigrate women.pimps
moreAuthor Cora Daniels
Cora Daniels discusses how the concept of ghetto has permeated popular culture and how this mind-set affects communities of color.
moreAuthor John McWhorter
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First Person: Sarah-Ann Shaw
Boston’s first African American television reporter, Sarah-Ann Shaw, talks about her early political influences, her activism during the civil rights era in Boston, and how she became a broadcasting pioneer. Always outspoken, Shaw is also very candid about the changes she has seen in the commitment of present-day black activists, churches, and reporters.
(First Person is an oral history interview series with New England's iconic leaders of color.)
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