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Make It Plain Podcast

Make It Plain Podcast

By: Kehinde Andrews
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The Make it Plain podcast is hosted by Kehinde Andrews, chair of Harambee OBU and professor of Black Studies. Each week he discusses what's happening in the world and interviews people you need to hear from. Support Make it Plain: https://make-it-plain.org/support-us/ Join Harambee OBU https://www.blackunity.org.uk/ Written and hosted: Kehinde Andrews Artwork: Assata Andrews YouTube: Kadiri Andrews2024 Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • David Lammy loses the plot on police racism + the media let Farage exploit the death of Henry Nowak
    Jun 9 2026

    The racist myth that police aren't inherently institutionally racist is finally debunked—yet the denial persists, this time being spread by Labour politician David Lammy. Kehinde exposes the shocking reality behind police practices, racism in politics, and how the narratives we've been fed are designed to keep systemic injustice intact. Why do policymakers and even some Black leaders deny the deep-rooted institutional racism in law enforcement, and how is this denial harming us all?

    In this provocative episode, Kehinde unpacks the disturbing footage of police misconduct—whether it's the brutal treatment of Black victims or the tragic case of Henry Nowak—and reveals how these are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a racist system built into the very fabric of policing. You'll discover why claims of "bad apples" are a distraction from the real problem: the institution itself. We break down how reforms have been cosmetic, rooted in interest convergence and staged crises, rather than genuine systemic change. We explore the long history of police brutality, from the Stephen Lawrence case to the recent obsession with "two-tier systems," and how mainstream discourse is shifting blame away from institutional racism toward individual incompetence or "bad character." Kehinde challenges you to reframe the conversation—reject the false dichotomy of "racism against white people" and see the real enemy: systemic, structural racism woven into policies, practices, and culture.

    This episode is essential listening for anyone fed up with superficial police reform and ready to understand how to organize beyond politics as usual. Why is true reform impossible without changing the fundamental frameworks? And how can Black communities organize for power outside these collapsing institutions? Kehinde urges us to see this crisis not as a sign of racial decline but as a wake-up call for radical resistance and unity.

    Whether you're a student, activist, or concerned citizen, this episode will challenge your assumptions, reveal uncomfortable truths, and inspire collective action. The fight for real justice starts with understanding the frames we're told to accept—and rejecting them. Why listen? Because systemic racism in policing is not a myth. It's a lived reality that demands radical rethinking, community organization, and a break from the narratives that keep us divided. It's time to expose the illusions, flip the frame, and build a future rooted in truth and resistance. Join Kehinde as he unpacks these uncomfortable truths—ready to challenge the mainstream, ignite your political consciousness, and link the dots between police brutality, racial injustice, and the urgent need for grassroots power.

    Police bodycam shows officers handcuffing Henry Nowak as he lay dying: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/c172kkwpd9xo

    Lammy Review in 2017 https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/lammy-review-final-report

    Read the public letter and sign the petition in support of Black Studies at BCU https://c.org/hnpyKBCX7X

    Join Harambee OBU: www.blackunity.org.uk

    Written and hosted by: Kehinde Andrews

    Edited by: Kadiri Andrews

    Artwork by: Assata Andrews

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    1 hr
  • Kimberlé Crenshaw on Backtalker; Intersectionality; CRT and in defence of Black Studies
    May 30 2026

    We share what may have been the last ever event at Birmingham City University for Black Studies, a conversation between Kehinde and, Professor Kimberlé Crenshaw on her ground breaking new book 'Backtalker'. More than 400 people came out to celebrate the work.

    The fight to preserve Black Studies is more urgent than ever—and it's rooted in a history of erasure, resistance, and unwavering community strength. In this deeply personal and powerful episode, the pioneer behind critical race theory and intersectionality, pulls back the curtain on how systemic forces are rewriting history and silencing truths—yet black communities continue to fight back with resilience and sharp analysis.

    Crenshaw shares eye-opening stories from her own life—like nearly being killed by her ex in college, and the relentless efforts to undermine Black women's experiences—highlighting the critical need to defend the frameworks that illuminate racial and gender injustice. She explores how powerful narratives are deliberately erased—whether through bans on books, attacks on Black Studies curricula, or censorship of vital concepts like intersectionality—and exposes how these acts aim to rewrite the story of racial progress.

    You'll discover how right-wing forces are systematically dismantling the academic and cultural pillars that document and challenge racial oppression. Crenshaw breaks down the real impact of banning ideas like critical race theory, queer theory, and Black Studies—an assault not just on education, but on democracy itself.

    She also shares strategic lessons on how activists, scholars, and communities can push back effectively—by reclaiming history, advancing intersectional analysis, and resisting the forces that threaten to erase the wisdom of marginalized voices.

    This episode is perfect for students of social justice, educators, activists, and anyone committed to understanding how embedded power structures operate—and how to dismantle them. Crenshaw's insights equip us with the tools to fight for an authentic, inclusive "we" that acknowledges all of our experiences and histories, especially those most vulnerable.

    Why does the attack on Black Studies and intersectionality matter? Because the future depends on whether we will defend the knowledge that roots us in truth, or allow it to be wiped out. Join Professor Crenshaw—whose work helped shape the civil rights movement and who continues to lead the fight for justice—and get inspired to speak back and stand firm in this crucial moment.

    Get your copy of Backtalker now: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/446848/backtalker-by-crenshaw-kimberle-williams/9780241585221

    Read the public letter and sign the petition in support of Black Studies at BCU https://c.org/hnpyKBCX7X

    Read about the attack on Black Studies:

    BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwy2d6eg050o

    The Voice: https://www.voice-online.co.uk/news/uk-news/2026/05/18/they-just-dont-care-about-black-stuff-prof-kehinde-andrews-slams-decision-to-axe-bcu-black-studies-degree/

    Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2026/may/12/birmingham-city-university-urged-not-to-axe-black-studies-ma

    In the Times Higher: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/black-studies-masters-course-close-birmingham-city

    Join Harambee OBU: www.blackunity.org.uk

    Written and hosted by: Kehinde Andrews

    Edited by: Kadiri Andrews

    Artwork by: Assata Andrews

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    1 hr and 37 mins
  • Happy Malcolm Day, Black Studies + Prof Peniel Joseph on X's legacy + the attack on civil rights
    May 19 2026

    Happy Malcolm X Day. On Malcolm 101st Birthday Kehinde reflects on what Malcolm would say if he were alive today. Rest assured he would have been angry about the state of things. After providing a brief update about the Black Studies situation at Birmingham City University, Kehinde reflects on the Unite the Kingdom rally and the fresh bunch of English flags popping up around the UK.

    We are joined by guest Dr. Peniel Joseph, author of Freedom Season and many other books. He shares insights on Malcolm's relevance today, the importance of dignity, and reflects on the attacks on the civil rights that were hard fought for.

    Check out Freedom Season: https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/peniel-joseph/freedom-season/9781541675896/

    Read the public letter and sign the petition in support of Black Studies at BCU https://c.org/hnpyKBCX7X

    Read about the attack on Black Studies: BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwy2d6eg050o

    The Voice: https://www.voice-online.co.uk/news/uk-news/2026/05/18/they-just-dont-care-about-black-stuff-prof-kehinde-andrews-slams-decision-to-axe-bcu-black-studies-degree/

    Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2026/may/12/birmingham-city-university-urged-not-to-axe-black-studies-ma

    In the Times Higher: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/black-studies-masters-course-close-birmingham-city

    Read the Dismantling of Black Studies by Prof Jafari Allen about the assault on our work in the US: https://www.thenation.com/article/society/black-studies-freedom-democracy/

    Get your FREE ticket for what might be the final Black Studies event at Birmingham City University. Sunday May 24th the Black Studies team will be hosting Kimberlé Crenshaw to talk her new book Backtalker, and the importance of defending Black intellectual thought. https://Kimberlecrenshaw.eventbrite.co.uk

    Join Harambee OBU: www.blackunity.org.uk

    Written and hosted by: Kehinde Andrews

    Edited by: Kadiri Andrews

    Artwork by: Assata Andrews

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    1 hr and 13 mins
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