In this episode of 'Hindsight,' hosts Akil Sanders and Dr. Jennifer Sarrett dive into the critical historical parallels between the Reconstruction era and today's sociopolitical climate. They discuss the impact of federal and state policies on marginalized communities, the evolution of civil rights, and the systemic barriers that continue to hinder racial equality. From the Great Compromise of 1877 to modern voter suppression tactics, this episode offers an in-depth analysis of how history rhymes rather than repeats. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the ongoing struggle for justice and the importance of learning from our past to improve our future.

In this episode of Hindsight, hosts Akil Sanders and Dr. Jennifer Sarrett explore the historical roots and current implications of vaccine hesitancy, spurred by a recent CDC shooting tied to COVID vaccine misconceptions. The episode delves into early smallpox inoculations, anti-vaccine movements, and conspiracy theories fueled by figures like RFK Jr. The hosts underscore the importance of vaccinations and combating misinformation, aiming to educate and empower listeners to make informed decisions about their health.

Today, Jen talks about the inclusion of homosexuality in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and how gay rights activists got it (eventually) removed. We talk about Dr. John H. Fryer, who participated on a panel about homosexuality and psychiatry as Dr. Henry Anonymous, complete with mask and voice distorter to protect his identity. Along the way we get into trans rights, feminist porn, cabbage patch dolls, and more!

In this episode, we talk about Homestead Acts and how they supported some people in obtaining land and how it definitely did not support others. Along the way, we talk about Akil's Irish heritage, Michael Jackson (yes again), Turtles music, and, of course, the Oregon Trail.

In this episode, we continue to discuss the history of policing. Last time we talked about the start of policing in America and this episodes covers the mid-20th century. This is the era when policing became more embedded in communities. The War on Poverty, War on Crime, and War on Drugs all led to increase surveillance of some communities and many of the policing tactics we hear (and complain about!) today. Also, it includes Jen's all time favorite FBI story....it's amazing :)

In this episode, Jen talks about how formal policing started in the US, from slave patrols to northern union busting units. Turns out, talking about the history of policing - even if you are only focusing on colonial times and the mid 20th century! So, come along on a journey of Puritanical justice, the original purpose of Georgia, and how police became a part of our daily lives.

WARNING: We do sing in this episodeThis time, Akil talks about the making and impact of We Are The World, the hit 1985 song featuring a bunch of celebrities of the time. The aim was to raise money and awareness for hunger in Africa, and it did! Along the way, as usual, we talk about a lot of other things, including an amazing story from Akil's childhood.

Inspired by the multiple Oscars Oppenheimer was nominated for, Jen tells Akil about how the creation of the lab in Los Alamos involved displacing homesteaders in a quick and, sometimes, violent manner. The story of Project Manhattan that the film didn't tell you. As we learn about this untold history, we find ourselves discussing conspiracy theories, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelsey, gray hair, aliens, and more! You just gotta hear it to believe it!Go to the Atomic Heritage Foundation to learn ...