Spelman College recently hosted PBS and NPR’s Atlanta affiliate WABE for an episode of its Political Breakfast podcast. Hosted by journalist Lisa Rayam and featuring Republican strategist Brian Robinson and Democratic strategist Tharon Johnson, the podcast episode highlighted the significance of political engagement and civil discourse.
At Spelman, we believe in fostering meaningful conversations about the world around us. The Political Breakfast has built a reputation for insightful, thought-provoking discussions on policy, politics and civic engagement, and this event especially highlights the importance of civility in political discourse,” said Fatimot Ladipo, associate vice president of government and community relations at Spelman. “During a time when debates can often become divisive, we are here to demonstrate that respectful conversation, even when we disagree, is essential for progress.”
To kick off the episode, Robinson and Johnson each described the seemingly quick descent from civility to divisiveness in the American political landscape from their own perspectives.
“What you’re seeing is how much pent-up frustration there was in center-right America and how fast things had moved,” said Robinson. “I saw so many folks in the last few years say things I had not heard before like, ‘I’m leaving my corporation because they’re not going to promote a white guy,’ or ‘I’m concerned my kid can’t go to my alma mater because they’re not accepting too many white kids’ ... I began to see the early wave of the backlash really forming.”
Throughout the episode, Robinson and Johnson covered a wide array of topics like diversity, equity and inclusion, immigration, tariffs and more. Each guest respectfully shared their own opinion of each topic, agreeing at some points and civilly disagreeing with others. Both agreed that the policies of today will have lasting impacts on the lives of young adults and college students for many years to come.
“A lot of the decisions that are being made right now are going to impact your lives,” said Johnson, a Clark Atlanta University graduate. “When you leave these gates, you’re now going to be very mindful of ‘do I really want to work for this company?’”
At one point during the episode, Rayam asked the audience of Spelman students to shout out political topics that were weighing heavy on their minds. Among the topics mentioned were reproductive rights, education, immigration, Title IX and Palestine.
Toward the end of the episode, students had the opportunity to ask insightful questions about the future of politics and how to navigate a new workforce era. Sociology major Kennedy Blue Washington, C’2027, shared her perspective as a pre-law student who works in the Georgia Capitol at least once a week as a member of the Georgia Women’s Policy Institute and a Spelman on the Hill representative.
“One of the biggest things I’ve come across is having to hold my tongue and be respectful, while also listening and trying to understand the mindset of the Republican man or woman,” said Washington, who described her experience as a Black woman in politics who must interact with people who hold views that pose a threat to her identity. “How do you navigate that respectfully and hold your tongue while sharing your point respectfully?”
Johnson responded with encouragement and emphasized the importance of remaining authentic and not allowing opposing viewpoints and perspectives to disrupt your purpose.
“My advice to you is this: Don’t stop showing up,” said Johnson.