Decoded Season 3 Episode 9 Why Racism Isn't Just a Southern Problem
- June 29, 2016
In Decoded season 3 episode 9, titled "Why Racism Isn't Just a Southern Problem," the host and his team step outside of the typical narrative of racism being solely a problem in the southern United States. The episode delves into the ways in which racism is present in all regions of the country and how it has influenced policies and practices that have impacted marginalized communities.
The episode begins by exploring the history of redlining, a practice that was prevalent in cities across the country in the mid-20th century. Redlining was a federal policy that prevented people of color from buying homes in certain areas, systematically segregating communities and limiting access to resources. The team visits cities like Pittsburgh and Detroit to examine how this practice has perpetuated economic inequality and reinforced residential segregation.
The episode also discusses how racism has impacted the criminal justice system. The team speaks with activists and advocates in places like Brooklyn, New York, where they explore how the "War on Drugs" and other tough-on-crime policies have led to an unfair criminal justice system that disproportionately affects Black and Brown people.
The team also explores the way racism has manifested in the way we think about voting rights. The episode examines the history of voter suppression, including the use of tactics like voter ID laws, gerrymandering, and purging of voter rolls, which have all been used to limit the power of communities of color to vote and impact policies that impact them.
Throughout the episode, the Decoded team examines how racism influences policies in ways that may not always be obvious. They also explore how it is ingrained in our history, our legal system, and our institutions. By pulling back the curtain on these problems, the team hopes to inspire viewers to engage in conversations and take meaningful actions to combat racism in all its forms.
Overall, "Why Racism Isn't Just a Southern Problem" is an eye-opening episode that provides a thought-provoking look at the ways in which racism impacts all corners of the country. It demonstrates the need for continued efforts to fight against racism and promote equality for all.