Category: Courts

R. Kelly has been an R&B superstar for two decades, with hit songs such as “I Believe I Can Fly” and “I Wish,” and winning several music awards, including three Grammys. But while Kelly has enjoyed mainstream success, throughout his career, he has been plagued by allegations of sexual involvement with underage girls and inappropriate, abusive relationships with women and girls.

Recently, the documentary miniseries “Surviving R. Kelly” was released on Lifetime, discussing allegations of Kelly’s sexual misconduct, including more recent allegations that he keeps women and girls captive in an abusive “sex cult.” The documentary featured interviews with several accusers, family members of alleged victims, former business and personal associates, and family members.

R. Kelly has not been convicted of any crime related to the sexual misconduct and abuse allegations, and he has denied all accusations.

In this episode, Jaye discusses the R. Kelly documentary with her brother, the author of Gods of Life and co-owner of Shining Otaku Comics, Ervin Johnson II. Jaye and Ervin talk about Kelly’s history, the #MeToo movement, and women’s empowerment. The episode also includes a “palate cleanser” segment where they discuss manga (Japanese comics), Shining Otaku Comics, and Gods of Life.

CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, child molestation, and domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.

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When most Americans think of late civil rights icon Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we often picture a unifying Christian minister who used non-violence to advance his dream of racial equality in the United States. King would have been 90 years old this year, had he not been assassinated. We observe his birthday every January, and often hear his name invoked, as well as that of other civil rights leaders, in February during Black History Month.

But in death, has Dr. King been whitewashed?

In the first installment of a two-part series, Jaye discusses some widely-held beliefs regarding Dr. King and the world in which he lived. She provides context for Dr. King’s life, and sets the record straight on a respected, but misunderstood historical figure.

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The 2018 midterm elections are here! In this episode, Jaye talks midterm predictions, the Voting Rights Act, Millennials and Gen Z, and voter suppression. Jaye also discusses a major think tank responsible for the current Republican agenda, and which supplies the manpower behind GOP presidents from Ronald Reagan to Donald Trump. Why does this organization have a vested interest in subverting democracy? Can the American people overcome the anti-democratic measures of right-wing politicians and save this country?

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What if the religious extremism Americans should be most concerned about comes from Christianity? In this episode, Jaye explores the authoritarian, extremist elements of American evangelicalism and the overwhelming support of Donald Trump by white evangelical Christians. Jaye also discusses the Quiverfull movement, the increasing emphasis on authoritarianism and control within evangelical Christian colleges, dominionism, racial reconciliation, evangelical support for Donald Trump’s inhumane policies, and parallels between right-wing evangelicalism and ultra-conservative Islam.

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With the voter registration deadline upon us in many states, Jaye discusses the long-term impact of the vote, and why getting registered to vote and exercising the franchise is important in saving our democracy. She explains how voting in conservatives to federal and state offices over time has led to increased money in politics and reduced political impact from individual voters, especially poor Americans and ethnic minorities. Despite this, Jaye argues that voting still makes a difference, and that focusing on non-voters can help bridge the gap caused by voter suppression.

CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, particularly in the second main segment of the episode. Please be advised.

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American Citizens – Register to Vote NOW and Vote November 6!: http://www.vote.org

With the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh to the US Supreme Court by Donald Trump, many pro-life Americans are rejoicing at the pick. Their hope is that Kavanaugh’s elevation to the Court will signal the end of Roe v. Wade, the US Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion nationwide. Jaye explores the question – what will happen if Roe is set aside by the US Supreme Court? Will this achieve the goal of ending abortion, or is that truly the goal? And – to Americans who are staunchly pro-life regarding abortion, is symbolism more important than the outcome of protecting life?

Also – Jaye shares her experiences attending the Families Belong Together Rally in Cincinnati, Ohio. This was one of many around the country protesting the Trump Administration’s immigration policies, including the policy of family separation at the US-Mexico Border. More here.

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Several US Supreme Court rulings in June that have emboldened Donald Trump and the GOP, and have left Democrats reeling. In addition, US Supreme Court justice Anthony Kennedy is retiring, which means the Trump administration has another opening they can fill on the court. Jaye discusses these and related developments, and seeks to place them into their proper perspective. In the wake of these events, she aims to provide messages of admonishment, motivation, and hope. Resisters – be encouraged!

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