Tavis Smiley Season 7 Episode 421 Jill Abramson, John Carlos

In season 7 episode 421 of Tavis Smiley, two guests join the show: Jill Abramson and John Carlos.

Jill Abramson is a journalist and author who was the first female executive editor of The New York Times. She has also worked for The Wall Street Journal and Time magazine. She discusses her new book, Merchants of Truth: The Business of News and the Fight for Facts, which explores the state of journalism today and how it has been affected by digital technology and social media. Abramson delves into the challenges facing traditional news organizations and how they are adapting to stay relevant in a rapidly changing media landscape. She also discusses the importance of factual reporting and the role of journalists in holding those in power accountable.

John Carlos is a former Olympic athlete who famously raised his fist in protest during the medal ceremony at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. He and fellow athlete Tommie Smith used the gesture to draw attention to the struggle for civil rights in the United States. Carlos discusses the legacy of that moment and its impact on his life and career. He also talks about his activism beyond the Olympics, including his work with the Black Panther Party and his efforts to fight against poverty and inequality. Carlos shares his insights on the current state of race relations in the United States and what he sees as the way forward.

Throughout the episode, host Tavis Smiley engages in thoughtful and in-depth conversations with both guests, exploring their experiences and perspectives on issues ranging from journalism ethics and media bias to social justice and activism. The episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds and lives of two individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields and to society as a whole. Viewers will come away with a deeper understanding of the challenges facing journalism and civil rights activism in the modern era, as well as a renewed appreciation for the importance of speaking truth to power.