When Affirmative Action Was White: A Book Club Deep Dive

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' hosts Joe, Kodie, and Arthur delve into the book 'When Affirmative Action Was White' by Ira Katznelson. They discuss the author's background and his position as a political scientist at Columbia University, while also touching on the university's controversial actions during pro-Palestine protests. The episode provides an overview of the book's main themes, including the racially charged manipulation of New Deal policies by Southern Democrats, the systemic exclusion of Black Americans from social welfare benefits, and the broader implications of these historical injustices. The hosts conclude by reflecting on the importance of acknowledging and understanding this history, especially for white Americans.

00:00 Introduction and Book Club Jingle

00:57 Introducing the Book and Author

02:27 Columbia University and Historical Context

03:34 New Deal Era and Affirmative Action

08:32 Understanding Affirmative Action

18:52 LBJ's Speech and Southern Democrats' Strategies

27:13 Exclusion in Social Security and Labor Acts

28:48 The Reality of Juneteenth

29:55 White Privilege and Historical Myths

31:17 Government Manipulation and Affirmative Action

32:35 Capitalism's Role in Racism

38:37 Welfare Programs and State Control

48:33 Conclusion and Reflections