4 chapters across the catalog
A throwback to episode 23 features Tavis Smiley discussing how Black America lost ground in every major economic category during the Obama decade. The hosts examine why the first Black president failed to protect the economic interests of his most loyal constituency, leading to a "re-establishment of the bottom."
Broadcaster Tavis Smiley reports that Black America lost ground in every major economic category during the Obama administration. Smiley attributes this to a focus on symbolism over substance and a lack of pressure from black leaders who were silenced by invitations to the White House. The segment also touches on the "reparations vote" and the "wink-wink, nod-nod" expectation that Obama would deliver tangibles in his second term.
A throwback clip of Tavis Smiley refutes claims that Black America saw significant economic gains during the Obama presidency. Smiley reports that Black Americans lost ground in every major economic category over that decade. The hosts discuss Smiley's subsequent disappearance from public broadcasting, suggesting he was marginalized for failing to "toe the party line."
Tavis Smiley reports that Black America lost ground in every major economic category during the decade spanning Barack Obama's presidency. Smiley argues that black leadership was sidelined by the symbolism of the first black president, leading to a lack of substantive policy pressure. He contrasts this with the gains made by the LGBT and environmental movements during the same period, suggesting black voters were too deferential to the administration.
