Ep 107. A discussion of the Charleston church shooting
- June 22, 2015
On the episode of Tavis Smiley season 9, titled "A Discussion of the Charleston Church Shooting," the show delves into the tragic event that occurred in June 2015, when a white supremacist entered the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina and killed nine members of the congregation.
Throughout the episode, Tavis Smiley, along with a panel of guests, discuss the significance of the event and how it impacted the African American community and the nation as a whole. The panel includes various activists, journalists, and community leaders who each bring their unique perspectives to the discussion.
They talk about how the shooting was not an isolated incident, but rather an example of the deep-seated racism and white supremacy that still exists in America. They also discuss the role that the media played in covering the event and how it contributed to shaping the national conversation about race relations in the country.
The discussion also touches on the power of forgiveness and how the families of the victims showed incredible grace and forgiveness towards the shooter, even in the midst of their own personal grief and pain.
Additionally, the episode explores the aftermath of the shooting and how it ignited a larger conversation about the use of the Confederate flag in public spaces. The panel examines the symbolism behind the flag and how its presence perpetuates racism and hate.
Throughout the discussion, Tavis Smiley and the panelists challenge viewers to confront the uncomfortable truths about racism and white supremacy in America, and offer ways to move forward towards a more just and inclusive society.
Overall, "A Discussion of the Charleston Church Shooting" is a powerful and thought-provoking episode that confronts some of the most pressing issues facing our nation today.
