Ep 2. Criminality

The New Negroes season 1 episode 2 explores the theme of criminality, highlighting the systemic injustices faced by Black people in the American legal system. The episode is hosted by Emmy-nominated comedian Baron Vaughn and musician Open Mike Eagle, who introduce a lineup of talented Black performers.

The episode begins with a segment called "Cops and Comedians," featuring a discussion between Vaughn, Eagle, and comedian Nicole Byer about their own experiences with law enforcement. Byer recounts a traumatic experience she had with the police while living in New York City, highlighting how Black people are unfairly targeted by officers, while Vaughn and Eagle share their own perspectives on the issue.

Next, the show features a performance by rapper and songwriter JPEGMAFIA, who delivers a blistering set that touches on themes of police brutality and systemic racism. His energetic stage presence and incisive lyrics are a powerful indictment of the current state of American society.

Following JPEGMAFIA's performance, the show moves on to a segment titled "In the Moment," where Eagle interviews Tonya Jameson, a journalist and author who has written extensively about the criminal justice system. Jameson shares her insights on why Black people are more likely to be arrested and incarcerated than white people, outlining the many ways in which the system is rigged against them.

After the interview with Jameson, the show features a stand-up set by comedian Roy Wood Jr., who uses his humor to shed light on the absurdity of America's criminal justice system. Wood's jokes are biting and insightful, and he manages to find humor in even the darkest of subjects.

Next up is a musical performance by genre-bending artist Phonte, who brings his unique blend of R&B, hip-hop and jazz to the stage. Phonte's soulful vocals and deeply personal lyrics resonate with the audience, offering a poignant commentary on the ways in which the criminal justice system impacts the lives of Black people.

The episode concludes with a segment called "Story Time," where Vaughn and Eagle read a selection of letters written by incarcerated people. The letters are a powerful reminder of the human toll of America's prison industrial complex, and they showcase the resilience and tenacity of the people who are trapped within it.

Overall, The New Negroes season 1 episode 2 is a powerful meditation on the theme of criminality, offering a nuanced and multifaceted perspective on one of the most pressing issues facing Black people in America today. Through the use of comedy, music, and thoughtful analysis, the episode manages to shed light on this important topic in a way that is both engaging and informative.