Black History Month with Dr. Hasan Jeffries and Commissioner Kevin Boyce

Franklin County Media

20-02-2024 • 1 hr 8 mins

In this powerful episode of "Talk Of The County," host Kenneth Wilson leads an insightful conversation on Black history and the evolution of the civil rights movement with eminent guests Dr. Hasan Jeffries and Kevin Boyce. The discussion probes into the educational disparities, media influences, and social justice activism in the context of Black history.

Dr. Jeffries sheds light on the uneven understanding of civil rights history across different regions, pinpointing the underlying issues of racism and inequality that persist in Ohio. The panel talks about systemic racism and its increased visibility amongst students, particularly following the George Floyd protests in 2020. Dr. Jeffries emphasizes the significance of grassroots movements and the role of everyday people in shaping civil rights activism, which is often overshadowed by the media's portrayal.

A poignant segment of the conversation delves into how the media historically treated Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, discussing the complexities of their representations. After King's assassination, Dr. Jeffries notes a shift in public opinion that led to a sanitized narrative that conformed to the status quo, often glossing over King's message of economic and social justice.

Kenneth Wilson turns the spotlight on the media's power in crafting historical narratives, influencing how racial issues are perceived, and the dynamic nature of racism. Guest Kevin Boyce, while sharing his personal experience of being maced during protests, acknowledges a new era in American history marked by George Floyd's death.

The dialogue then broadens to cover the significance of diversity, equality, and inclusion in society. Boyce stresses the need for fair opportunities based on qualifications, not identity, advocating for a more just and equitable world.

Throughout the conversation, Boyce and Dr. Jeffries acknowledge recent social upheavals that have generated fresh opportunities while meeting resistance from beneficiaries of the existing power structures. The episode also explores the polarizing political landscape post-Obama's presidency, the backlash from the MAGA movement, and the politicization of the Tea Party.

The 2010 midterm elections come under scrutiny as a critical juncture influencing the current political atmosphere. The guests discuss the sense of neglect felt by Black men within traditional political ideologies, leading some towards far-right allegiances. They stress the importance of organization and setting tangible expectations for political change, highlighting the community's overemphasis on the mere act of voting.

COVID-19's impact on exacerbating health disparities and emphasizing the necessity for minority business loans is also broached. Boyce and Dr. Jeffries speak on the ongoing struggle for racial health equality, tracing its roots back to previous civil rights and black power movements.

Kevin Boyce, discussing voting's significance, likens it to preparing ingredients for cookies – essential but requiring patience and commitment. He urges for a collective black political agenda, emphasizing electoral participation for influencing government decisions.

As the conversation progresses, the topic of homeownership, education, and community engagement surfaces, framed as success ingredients and preparations for seizing opportunities. Dr. Jeffries discusses the diminishing prospects for the younger generation in the wake of student debt and limited job opportunities.

Both guests lament the exploitation of fear and racism in politics, pointing out its dangerous application from border crises to negative ad campaigns. Special attention is given to barbershops and beauty shops as influential community hubs for discourse and collective decision-making.

The episode wraps up with reflections on personal growth and the importance of inclusivity. Dr. Jeffries and Boyce highlight the power of each vote...