Melina Abdullah (of Black Lives Matter) On ‘People’s Party With Talib Kweli’

In this episode of ‘People’s Party,’ Talib Kweli and Jasmin Leigh sit down with co-founder of the Los Angeles chapter of Black Lives Matter and professor of Pan-African Studies at California State University, Los Angeles — Melina Abdullah

The deeply insightful conversation begins with Melina, Jasmin, and Talib discussing her Ted Talk ‘Resistance as the New Normal’ speech. They also reflect on the story of MarShawn McCarrel, expand on the racial wealth gap in America and how to correct it, as well as the stock market and how it perpetuates systematic racism. They explore Melina’s upbringing in East Oakland and that community’s rich legacy of protesting, as well as discuss the meaning of ‘Pan-Africanism’. Melina responds to those accusing her of being a Marxist, they talk about the liberal debate of class vs. race discrimination, and Melina illustrates how shows like ‘Good Trouble’ that she has appeared in have been so important to the cause, picking up where mainstream media has failed.

Later Melina talks about how she navigates life, accused of being a leader of a terrorist organization. They discuss the idea of defunding the police, and reimagining public safety though community programs, explaining to people how to avoid any alignment with white supremacy, and Melina speaks to reclaiming black women’s divinity. They also go on to discuss Megan Thee Stallion getting shot and the backlash she faced online, white allies and their role in eradicating white supremacy, celebrities and the role they can play with their platforms, and Melina is asked for her take on the activists obligations to vote.

“People’s Party With Talib Kweli” is also available to give a listen via Spotify | SoundCloud | Apple