Ep 65. February 21, 2018 - Clint Smith

On February 21, 2018, The Opposition with Jordan Klepper welcomed poet and writer Clint Smith as a guest on the show. As an educator and researcher, Smith shared his insights into the ways in which institutions of education and incarceration intersect and how they can disproportionately impact marginalized communities.

Throughout the episode, Klepper and Smith engaged in a thoughtful and nuanced discussion about the challenges facing America's prison system and the role that education can play in empowering individuals and communities who have been impacted by mass incarceration. Smith shared his own experiences as a teacher and researcher working within the criminal justice system, and he highlighted some of the systemic inequalities that contribute to the over-representation of people of color in America's prisons.

At the heart of the conversation was the idea that education can serve as a key tool in helping individuals to break the cycle of poverty and incarceration. Smith argued that too often, institutions of education and law enforcement work at odds with one another, and that this can leave many individuals feeling powerless and trapped. By empowering people with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed, he argued, we can create a society that is more equitable and inclusive for all.

The conversation also touched on some of the broader issues facing America's criminal justice system, such as the legacy of slavery and the ways in which systemic racism continues to perpetuate inequalities in society today. Smith spoke passionately about the need for people of all races to come together to combat injustice and create positive change in their communities, emphasizing the crucial role that education can play in this process.

Overall, the episode was a thought-provoking and informative discussion about some of the most pressing issues facing America today. The conversation between Klepper and Smith was nuanced and respectful, and it highlighted the importance of engaging in open and honest dialogue about topics that are often difficult to talk about. Whether viewers were deeply invested in issues related to the criminal justice system or were just looking for an insightful and educational conversation, this episode of The Opposition with Jordan Klepper did not disappoint.