Hindsight

Join hosts Akil Sanders and Dr. Jen Sarrett on another insightful episode of Hindsight as they delve into the controversial history of Thanksgiving. From debunking the myths surrounding Christopher Columbus and his so-called discovery of America, to examining how Thanksgiving is rooted in Civil War history and the ongoing impact of colonization. The discussion flows into broader themes including t...

In this eye-opening episode of Hindsight, Akil Sanders and Dr. Jennifer Sarrett dive deep into the Second Amendment, exploring its colonial origins, racist application, and the stark hypocrisy in how gun rights are enforced in America. 🎯 KEY TOPICS COVERED: The colonial roots of the Second Amendment and its connection to oppression How gun rights were systematically denied to Black Americans thro...

In this episode of 'Hindsight,' hosts Dr. Jen Sarrett and Akil Sanders discuss historical events that have led to current disparities and inequities in education. They review the origins and intentions of the Department of Education, established by Jimmy Carter in 1979, and its implications on local and federal control over educational systems. The conversation addresses the allocation of resource...

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 187...

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 vaccinat...

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 right...

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 abo...

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, alie...

Today, Akil tells the story of Robert Smalls, a real American hero that we don't ever talk about! Why!? And we go on some tangents about sex work and DEIA and reparations and the census....so much to talk about :) Learn about this amazing historical hero and tell your friends and loved ones and enemies!

In today's episode, Jen tells Akil the story of Junius Wilson, a deaf Black man born in Jim Crow south who was unfairly and unnecessarily institutionalized/incarcerated his entire life. We discuss how racism and ableism - on the part of individuals and systems - combined to create this unjust situation. We also are new to podcasting so the first half of the episode's audio is....not great. Bear wi...

In the first episode of Hindsight Akil and Jen introduce themselves and talk about why they are doing this podcast. Some stories are told, some opinions expressed, and some laughs are had.