KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

In this episode of Hard Knock we speak with George Galvis the executive director of Communities United for Restorative Youth Justice also known as (CURYJ) about the Grand Opening of the organization’s new Youth Power Zone in the heart of Oakland’s Fruitvale Village. In 2020, CURYJ launched an ambitious expansion campaign centered on the concept of the Youth Power Zone—an antithesis to the systemic disempowerment caused by policies like the gang injunction. These zones are envisioned as comprehensive alternatives to traditional systems of policing and incarceration, uplifting and honoring all youth as sacred. They are spaces that promote power, belonging, and healing. The Youth Power Zone in Fruitvale will serve as a model for community-led healing justice, one that can be replicated across the country. Later we hear from Poor News Network about America’s ongoing assault on disenfranchised communities. As towards the end of program political prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal reads a messages of solidarity to Water Defenders by Leonard Peltier, who is a political prisoner. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Youth Power Zone and Poor News Network appeared first on KPFA.

In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, hosted by Davey D, the conversation turned to a pressing and contentious issue: reparations for Black Americans in California—a state typically seen as a progressive stronghold. The dialogue featured Melina Abdullah from BLM Grassroots-LA, Quency Phillips of Lighthouse Silicon Valley, and Friday Jones, Vice President of the Los Angeles Reparations Advisory Commission. The discussion not only explored the immediate reactions to the stalled legislation but also delved into the historical roots and future strategies of the reparations movement. Davey D set the stage by reflecting on the unexpected stalling of reparations legislation in California, expressing surprise and disappointment given the state’s progressive reputation and its previous commitments to examining the issue. Melina Abdullah highlighted the intense groundwork and advocacy that had gone into the proposed bills, which she clarified were aimed at tangible reparations, rather than symbolic gestures. She expressed her frustration: “Reparations is not as we just witnessed in Los Angeles County, free parking at county beaches and parks on for black people on Juneteenth right? That’s not reparations.” Abdullah lamented the failure of the bills to even come to a vote, a move she attributed to political pressures and the lack of commitment from certain Black legislators. She argued, “What we have now is a black community and pro-reparations community that’s more committed than ever to making sure that we win real reparations for our people and in honor of our ancestors and the stolen labor that built what is now the Americas.” Quency Phillips discussed the broader implications of the fight for reparations, highlighting economic mobility and the role of community support. He remarked on the challenges of advocacy: “We walked there thinking that we had folks together on this versus us having to educate these politicians on that.” Phillips pointed out the disconnect between the grassroots efforts and legislative action, stressing the need for deeper engagement and support from the political spheres to drive substantive changes. Friday Jones also shared a poignant personal narrative, connecting her family history directly to the broader demands for justice and equity that reparations represent. She emphasized the generational impact of such policies and the need for sustained advocacy and educational efforts to bring about meaningful change. Jones passionately added, “This is not some new country. We’re still the same country under the same government, under the same constitution.” Expanding on her engagement in political education, Jones stated, “I’ve been trying to educate our community about the historical and ongoing impacts of these legislative failures on our lives.” Throughout the program, the speakers highlighted the extensive history of the reparations movement, refuting the notion that it is a recent development. They called for a renewed commitment to the cause, capable of overcoming the ongoing challenges posed by political and social resistance. The episode closed with a call to action, urging listeners to engage with local and state officials, educate themselves on the issues, and participate in upcoming community events aimed at reigniting the push for reparations. Davey D’s reflective questioning underscored the conversation’s urgency and the multifaceted nature of the struggle for reparative justice in America. This discussion on Hard Knock Radio is a stark reminder of the complexities of racial justice initiatives in even the most seemingly progressive states and serves as a rallying cry for continued advocacy and action in the fight for reparations. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post California’s Stalled Reparations Effort: A Radio Discussion Unveils...

In an inspiring episode of Hard Knock Radio, I had the honor of hosting a profound discussion with two remarkable voices in the realms of music and activism: Minister King X and Ras Kass, alongside former prisoner turned advocate, Sitawa. Our conversation revolved around the transformative “Black Man, Rumble” project—a powerful initiative leveraging art to challenge systemic injustices and amplify marginalized voices. Minister King X, an artist and activist who spent significant time behind bars, shared his compelling journey from incarceration to influential community leader. Convicted under the harsh stipulations of the Three Strikes Law, Minister served 16 years but turned his sentence into a period of artistic and spiritual growth. He participated in notable hunger strikes in 2011 and 2013, using these acts of resistance to forge bonds with other artist-activists like Ras Kass, enhancing awareness around incarceration issues. Ras Kass, a seasoned hip-hop artist known for his intellectual lyricism, discussed his own path to success, marked by a curious mind and a challenging upbringing. His early exposure to a broad range of literature shaped his creative perspective, enabling him to articulate the complexities of African American experiences in a society rife with stereotypes and cultural misconceptions. Our conversation also touched on the essence of authentic artistic expression and the critical role of self-reflection. Both Ras and Minister emphasized how genuine art could serve as a potent form of social commentary, capable of challenging the status quo and sparking significant change. They shared personal stories of overcoming adversities, including the pervasive stigma associated with their pasts, and how they’ve used their platforms to advocate for reform and educate the public. Highlighting the interconnection between art and activism, Minister elaborated on his latest project, “Black Man, Rumble.” The initiative is not just about music; it’s a movement aimed at confronting social issues head-on through collaborative efforts. This project underlines the artist’s role as a catalyst for change, using their creative output to engage, inform, and inspire action. The episode took a more profound turn with the introduction of Sitawa, whose story of wrongful incarceration and resilience added a poignant layer to our discussion. Having spent over four decades in prison, with 34 of those years in solitary confinement, Sitawa’s insights into the systemic abuses within the prison system were both harrowing and enlightening. His contributions underscored the ongoing struggles against what he describes as modern-day slavery in prisons—a critical issue that remains at the forefront of advocacy efforts. As we concluded, the conversation extended to the broader historical and cultural contexts, touching on the legacy of the Moors and the pressing need to address the violations of basic human rights within the carceral system. The upcoming “Black Man, Rumble” event, set to commemorate the Attica uprising, promises to be a significant milestone in this ongoing fight for justice, featuring educational workshops and performances aimed at fostering unity and understanding. This episode of Hard Knock Radio not only shed light on the personal battles of our guests but also painted a broader picture of the systemic challenges facing our communities. It served as a reminder of the power of unity, the transformative potential of art, and the relentless spirit of those who dare to speak truth to power. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Empowerment Through Art and Activism: A Deep Dive into “Black Man, Rumble” Project appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – September 3, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – September 2, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – August 30, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sits down with John Reimann, a union organizer from Oakland Socialist, to dissect pressing issues concerning voter suppression and controversial legislative bills in California. Their conversation deeply explores the implications of these legislative actions on democratic rights and educational content in schools. Davey D sets the stage by expressing alarm over recent actions in Texas, where a large number of voters were purged from the rolls. He describes an incident involving intimidation tactics against a Latina organizer, which prompts a broader discussion on the erosion of democratic processes. Reimann responds by detailing two specific California Senate bills, SB 1287 and SB 1277, which are at the heart of their discussion. He criticizes these bills for potentially enforcing a narrow view of historical events, specifically the Holocaust, which might overshadow other genocides. He points out, “It basically equates genocide with the Holocaust… it covers up for all the other holocausts,” highlighting the lack of inclusivity in the portrayal of historical atrocities. Further, Reimann expresses concerns about the impact of these bills on academic freedom and protests on campuses, emphasizing that “this bill would do then is actually, it’s a cover for what the Zionists and what Israel is doing.” This part of their conversation touches on the Texas of dissent and the manipulation of educational content to serve political ends. The discussion also ventures into the mechanics of political power and influence. Davey D and Reimann debate the influence of lobbying groups like AIPAC and the role of money in politics. Reimann argues, “They put 8 million dollars into the coffers, and that’s what defeated them,” referring to political campaigns influenced by substantial financial investments from powerful lobbying groups. In the strategic part of their conversation, Reimann advocates for a more robust involvement of unions in political movements, suggesting that grassroots mobilization is crucial to countering legislative and political pressures. He proposes building interconnected movements that challenge power structures and push for social change, stating, “we have to start now, going to the unions and demanding that the Union leadership organized protests against this.” Throughout the episode, Davey D and Reimann engage in a critical analysis of current challenges facing democratic engagement and explore strategies for activism. They emphasize the need for strong, empowered communities that can effectively resist and advocate against policies they view as unjust or oppressive, aiming to foster a more inclusive and equitable political landscape.Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Voter Suppression appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock Radio, Davey D speaks with Kwadro Deterville and Popmaster Fabel about Culture and Cultural Appropriation. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Part Two: Cultural Appropriation appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock Radio, Davey D speaks with Kwadro Deterville and Popmaster Fabel about Culture and Cultural Appropriation. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Culture and Cultural Appropriation appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – August 26, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode Davey D speaks with Professor James Lance Taylor about Kamala Harris presidential run. And later Poor News Network explores America’s War on the Poor. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Kamala and The Democratic Dilemma and Poor News Network appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – August 22, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

In the interview on Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engages with Pastor Mike McBride, who is attending the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The conversation delves into the dynamics and expectations surrounding the convention, especially in light of recent political shifts. Pastor Mike describes the convention atmosphere as charged with both hope and the stark realities of current social ills. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the “political theater” while also staying grounded in the ongoing struggles affecting many Americans. This dual perspective is crucial in his role as a pastor within the Black church, which embodies a tradition of prophetic justice intertwined with spiritual upliftment. He remarks, “I’m a black pastor, black preacher in the Black church prophetic tradition, which just means that my feet are squarely grounded in the most difficult parts of our human existence.” The conversation shifts to discuss the significance of hope, as highlighted by recent speeches from Barack and Michelle Obama. Pastor Mike stresses that while hope is essential for fostering a vision of a better future, it is not sufficient on its own to bring about change. This perspective is pivotal as he discusses Kamala Harris’s nomination, noting her potential to represent a broader spectrum of American society. He states, “Hope is a very important fuel, if you will, for the human spirit… But hope is certainly important.” A significant part of their discussion focuses on the intersection of political action and social justice, particularly concerning the Palestinian cause within the convention. Pastor Mike is actively involved in efforts to bring Palestinian voices to the forefront, demonstrating the interconnectedness of global and domestic issues. He expresses a commitment to advocating for a ceasefire and lifting the weapons embargo as part of a broader push for justice. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by influential groups like AIPAC, highlighting the complexities of political funding and policy-making in the U.S. Pastor Mike critiques the disproportionate influence of money in politics, advocating for a return to public financing of campaigns to mitigate such disparities. Throughout the interview, Pastor Mike reiterates the need for continued activism and pressure from both inside and outside the political system. He underscores the importance of organizing and grassroots engagement to achieve substantial change, encapsulating this sentiment with a powerful call to action: “Let’s keep organizing. Let’s keep putting the pressure.” In conclusion, Pastor Mike reflects on the broader implications of the convention for future political and social landscapes. He calls for a comprehensive approach to addressing the myriad issues facing the nation, advocating for a strategy that combines hope with concrete action. His parting words resonate with a sense of urgency and possibility, urging listeners to remain engaged and proactive in shaping a more equitable and just society. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Pastor Mike McBride on Democratic National Convention in Chicago appeared first on KPFA.

In this episode of Hard Knock Davey D speaks with Community leader Wassim Hage and a member of Arab Resource and Organizing Center about the Democratic National Convention and the ongoing protests to end the occupation of Palestine. In a deeply engaging conversation on Hard Knock Radio with journalist Rosa Clemente, Cheri Honkala, the former Green Party Vice Presidential candidate and leader of the Poor People’s Campaign, shared insights from her recent activism. The discussion spotlighted Honkala’s leadership in a significant march from Milwaukee to Chicago, culminating in their presence at Humboldt Park during the Democratic National Convention (DNC), to raise awareness and push for policy changes regarding homelessness and economic inequality. During the march, which covered a striking 91 miles, Honkala and her group, including men, women, and children, symbolically carried their message through physical exertion, emphasizing the urgency of the housing crisis in America. They set up what Honkala referred to as “luxury tents,” a satirical nod to their makeshift accommodations along the way. “We walked 8 to 10 miles a day…,” Honkala detailed, highlighting the sheer determination of her group to advocate for those without a voice. Honkala passionately discussed the core of her activism, which revolves around direct actions like occupying abandoned houses to house the homeless “practical solutions to what she views as solvable issues. She pointed out the absurdity in the availability of housing resources that remain unused: “There’s more abandoned houses than there are homeless people in this country,” she argued, pushing for a redistribution of these idle assets to fulfill basic human needs. The conversation also ventured into broader socio-economic issues, including the impacts of technological advancements and economic policies that contribute to a rising tide of permanent unemployment. Honkala expressed concern over the generations both old and young who are finding it increasingly difficult to secure stable employment in the face of rapid technological change. Drawing parallels between local and international issues, Honkala connected the economic struggles within the U.S. to global crises such as the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico and conflicts in Gaza. She criticized the U.S. government’s allocation of resources, highlighting the stark contrast between military spending and the lack of investment in basic human necessities. A powerful moment in the interview came when Honkala declared, “We’re issuing a citizen’s arrest for crimes against humanity,” showcasing her readiness to take bold actions against political leaders who perpetuate systemic injustices. As the interview wrapped up, Honkala made an impassioned call for support, directing listeners to the Poor People’s Campaign website for donations. She emphasized the ongoing need for logistical support and resources to sustain their advocacy efforts, especially in places like Humboldt Park where they had gathered for the DNC. Throughout the discussion, Rosa Clemente provided a platform for Honkala to not only detail her initiatives but also to inspire and mobilize support for a broader movement aimed at tackling economic and social injustices at both the national and international levels. This conversation served as both an informational session and a resonant call to action, urging listeners to recognize and act on the interconnected struggles for justice across the globe. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post End the Occupation of Palestine and Cheri Honkala Discusses the Working Poor appeared first on KPFA.

In a compelling episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D connects with Chicago activists David Stovall and LaKeisha Gray-Sewell to delve into the implications of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) being held in Chicago. Davey D sets the stage by recalling the significant historical protests of 1968 in Chicago, posing questions about the potential challenges today’s activists might face. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post DNC Chicago w/ David Stovall and LaKeisha Gray-Sewell appeared first on KPFA.

Davey D spoke with break dance legends B Girl Macca, Safari, Precise and Charlie Rock about breaking being featured at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Breaking at the Olympics (Part Two) appeared first on KPFA.

Davey D spoke with Sunspot Jones and Emily Butterfly about community involvement and the legacy of Fairyland in Oakland, Ca. Later in part one of a two part conversation. Davey D spoke with break dance legends B Girl Macca, Safari, Precise and Charlie Rock about breaking being featured at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Fairyland and Olympics/Breaking appeared first on KPFA.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – August 14, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

On this episode of Hard Knock we speak with ODB’s wife Icelene Jones, son Bar-Sun Jones, his daughters, and Jason Pollard the director of the new documentary, Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys. Ol Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys is the first official feature documentary about the Grammy-nominated musician and legendary founding member of the iconic hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan. Born Russell Jones in 1968 in Brooklyn, NY, ODB developed a unique persona and rhyme style that set him apart from his contemporaries. An authorized Ol Dirty Bastard documentary is set to air on A&E, the first official documentary on the late Wu-Tang Clan rapper. Co-Directed by Emmy and Peabody Award-winning Director Sam Pollard (MLK/FBI, Black Art: In The Absence of Light) alongside his son Jason Pollard (Get Me Roger Stone, BitchinThe Sound and Fury of Rick James), the two-hour special will broadcast at 9 p.m. Eastern and Pacific on August 25 before becoming available on demand the next day. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys appeared first on KPFA.

Davey D and Tef Poe look back at what has transpired in Fergurson 10 years after Mike Brown was killed by a police officer which set off several months of protests. Has justice been served? Has Fergurson improved? Those questions are tackled during this broadcast Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post In Conversation with Tef Poe appeared first on KPFA.