Wanda's Picks

Today we will speak to Freja Joslin, a middle school English Language Arts teacher at the Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School in South Hadley, Massachusetts,and three of her students: Darren MacPherson, Rose Kendrick, Cole Payne, all 14 years old, who were inspired by Robert King's (A3) visit to their school and his story (Spring 09), so much so, they decided to conduct a letter writing campaign to urge government leaders to free political prisoners in the US and throughout the world. They believe it is important for all people, especially youth, to take action for social justice. This interview will be followed by a brief update in the SF8 case,and then joining us in the studio will be Elaine Brown, (Taste of Power) former leader in the Black Panther Party, speaking about Michael Lewis ("Little B"), sentenced to life in prison as an adult at 13 years old (Atlanta, Georgia, 1997) and Romaine "Chip" Fitzgerald, a former member of the Black Panther Party (L.A.) who has been incarcerated now for 40 years(!). Visit http://www.elainebrown.org/ Mar, curator joins us in the studio to talk about her current exhibit at the California African American Museum (CAAM): "Inside My Head". She will be joined in the studio by some of the artists in the exhibit: Deidre Greene, Pat Boyd, and Chukes. We close with a wonderful Reggae singer, Sheila Hylton and maybe, The Mighty Sparrow...both of them will be in Oakland, Sunday, June 14, 12 noon, at "Islands in the Park Islands in the Park," at Woodminster Amphitheater, 3300 Joaquin Miller Rd. For park information call: (510) 531-9597. The event celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean through music and features: Third World, Mighty Sparrow, Collie Buddz, Sheila Hylton, and the New Kingston Band. For ticket information call:(510) 832-5400. Prices are: $30 - $250.