Ep 120. Thu, Jun 18, 2020

The episode of ABC Nightline season 41 that aired on June 18, 2020 covered a variety of topics and news stories.

The first segment of the show focused on the ongoing protests against police brutality and racial injustice in the United States, sparked by the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The segment explored the peaceful protests as well as some of the violent and destructive acts that have occurred in the wake of the demonstrations. Correspondent Zachary Kiesch reported live from New York City, where peaceful protests continued despite a curfew imposed by Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Next, the show shifted its focus to the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it has had on businesses and workers. Correspondent Matt Gutman reported on the struggles of the hospitality industry in Las Vegas as casinos have reopened with new safety protocols, including limited capacity and mandatory masks for employees and guests. Gutman spoke to workers who are trying to navigate the new rules and fear contracting the virus.

The third segment of the show addressed the topic of police reform and the debate over defunding or dismantling police departments. Correspondent Pierre Thomas spoke with experts who weighed in on the effectiveness of these proposals and how they might be implemented. Thomas also spoke to a group of police officers who expressed frustration with the current system but are hesitant about the idea of defunding the police.

The show then shifted gears to a more positive story, interviewing a group of Black farmers in Georgia who are struggling to keep their land amid a history of discrimination and systemic racism in the agriculture industry. The farmers are now working to build a collective to buy and maintain land, as well as support each other financially and emotionally.

The final segment of the show covered the issue of homeschooling and how it has become a necessity for many families during the pandemic. Correspondent Deborah Roberts reported on the challenges and rewards of homeschooling, speaking to parents and students about their experiences and the creative ways they have adapted to this new style of education.

Overall, this episode of ABC Nightline offered a diverse range of topics and perspectives, covering current events and human interest stories with depth and nuance.