Why Race Matters

Host and producer Angela Fitzgerald introduces us to the motivation behind Why Race Matters, and the call to action she felt after the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. She shares her own story of moving to Wisconsin and her struggles adjusting to life in a predominately white community. We preview forthcoming episodes, guests, and topics while exploring Why Race Matters in Wisconsin.

Angela Fitzgerald sits down with Myra McNair, a licensed therapist, to talk about mental health challenges facing Black communities. They discuss images of Black death, racial trauma, the effects of social media and how finding joy can be a revolutionary act. They also look at how media coverage and racism are provoking a public health crisis for Black people.

Black voters are told their votes matter, but after an election their concerns often go unheard. In this episode, Angela Fitzgerald talks to activist Tatiyana Benson about civic engagement. They’ll explore representation in government, policy reform and the hurdles to political participation.

Host and Producer Angela Fitzgerald speaks to Rudy Bankston, a survivor of the school-to-prison pipeline. They discuss how education gaps and strict disciplinary policies in schools can lead to the suspension, expulsion and incarceration of Black students.

Where food comes from and who has access to it makes a difference in the health of a community. In this episode, Angela Fitzgerald sits down with Robert Pierce, a farmer who works to address food insecurity in Black neighborhoods. They'll discuss organic foods, the importance of land ownership and the stereotypes Black farmers face.

The birth of a child is a time for celebration, but for Black women, it comes with a higher risk. Racial disparities in birthing complications and deaths are serious issues for Black communities. On this episode of Why Race Matters, host Angela Fitzgerald sits down with certified doula Tracey Russell to discuss problems and solutions when it comes to Black maternal health.

Black artists have driven popular trends worldwide for decades. But what happens when society celebrates art while overlooking the communities who created it? Angela talks with dancer Papa-Kobina Brewoo and together they discuss issues around cultural appropriation and how Black artists are underrepresented within artistic and creative spaces they helped forge.

In Wisconsin, Black women are overrepresented in the criminal justice system. They make up just 6 percent of the state’s population but 21 percent of women in our correctional system. In this episode, Angela Fitzgerald talks with Carmella Glenn, coordinator of JustDane's “Just Bakery.” They discuss issues facing Black women leaving incarceration, roadblocks, and solutions for returning home.