The Kalamazoo College Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership has created Beyond Voting, a limited-series podcast that digs into the critical issues of the 2024 election. Episodes premier on Tuesdays and new episodes will be released through Election Day, November 5.
“Our primary goal with Beyond Voting is to encourage our listeners to take action, reminding them that to truly create the democracy we deserve, we have to do the necessary work in between elections,” said Arcus Center Executive Director Emily Williams, who hosts the podcast. “We want to inspire listeners to see voting as one tool within a democracy, but that true change comes from continuous organizing and action for social justice. We encourage listeners to take tangible steps in making a difference within their communities, connect with local organizations, participate in peaceful protests, engage in community organizing, and support grassroots initiatives that align with their values. By working together at the local level, we can address injustices and foster a more equitable society for all.”
The podcast is relevant for every voter, but students, social justice activists and individuals committed to making positive changes in society are especially encouraged to tune in. The diverse range of guests including activists, educators and social justice leaders, speak to various social movements and institutions including foreign policy, racial justice, grassroots organizing and more. Each episode features in-depth conversations with guests including 2008 Green Party VP Candidate Rosa Clemente; BYP co-founder and author Charlene Carruthers; and social worker, author and activist Feminista Jones.
The latest episode features Nicole Nguyen, an associate professor of criminology, law and justice at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She’s also a feminist geographer whose research contributes to and draws on grassroots struggles challenging racialized policing, war and empire, particularly in collaboration with community organizations.
Nguyen discusses ideas about how the Supreme Court is meant to function versus how it actually does, why it’s facing a legitimacy crisis, how some of their recent rulings are eroding established rights, and how activists can hold the highest court in the land accountable. Listen to the episode on the Arcus Center website and catch up on your favorite platform.
“We want our podcast to be an influential platform that educates, empowers and challenges nihilism by providing insightful information and guidance on how to live social justice values through action,” Williams said. “Our ultimate goal is to create an informed and engaged community that actively contributes to the ongoing pursuit of social justice. We want to let activists, social justice leaders, and those looking to make a difference in their communities see that change is possible and that we need their participation to build the democracy we deserve.”
