Frank Lo Greco discusses the systemic issues within the child protection system in Canada, highlighting a lack of accountability and the oppressive nature of current practices. Drawing from his extensive experience in social work and child welfare, Frank shares how a tragic event shifted his focus toward advocacy and reform. He emphasizes the need for changes in legislation and the importance of understanding the complexities faced by children and youth in care. The conversation delves into personal stories, including those of foster parents and Indigenous individuals, which showcase the ongoing struggles within the system. Frank and his wife co-authored a book titled "Behind the Doors," aiming to shed light on these challenges and inspire meaningful change.

Takeaways:

• Frank Lo Greco emphasizes the importance of taking action on your dreams as a guiding principle.
• The child protection system in Canada faces significant accountability issues that need addressing.
• Personal experiences and tragedies can motivate professionals to advocate for systemic change.
• Frank's father, an immigrant, served as a key mentor throughout his life and career.
• Legislative changes are crucial to better protect children and improve foster care systems.
• The relationship dynamics between children in care and social workers can heavily influence outcomes.

Dr. Cheryl Coleman, a distinguished consultant and expert in public affairs, joins the podcast to discuss the vital importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within faith-based organizations. She emphasizes that genuine transformation requires individuals to address their own biases and perspectives, especially concerning race relations. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Coleman shares her journey from advocating for public policies in Washington, D.C., to concentrating on workforce development and the spiritual implications of identity in Christ. She underscores the need for churches to acknowledge and celebrate their diversity, moving past cultural constructs that create division. Ultimately, Dr. Coleman urges listeners to reflect on their roles within the body of Christ and to pursue healing and unity in a world that frequently promotes division.

Dr. Cheryl Coleman's insights into organizational leadership and DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) present a captivating narrative on the intersection of faith and social justice. With years of experience, Dr. Coleman expresses her passion for creating inclusive workplaces that celebrate the unique contributions of every individual. The conversation emphasizes her personal journey, shaped by her upbringing and the support of her father, who encouraged her to embrace her authentic self. This theme of authenticity resonates throughout the episode as Dr. Coleman inspires the audience to engage in deep self-reflection and to reject societal pressures that dictate how one should present themselves world.

The dialogue critically examines public policy and its implications for faith communities, especially regarding discussions on race and equity. Dr. Coleman shares her experiences navigating the complexities of political advocacy, often finding herself at odds with policies that fail to serve marginalized communities. This tension fuels her dedication to DEI work, where she emphasizes the importance of aligning organizational practices with Christian faith values. She passionately argues that the church must take a proactive stance in addressing issues of race and inclusion, embodying the principles of love and unity as outlined in scripture.

As the conversation progresses, Dr. Coleman provides actionable insights for organizations seeking to enhance their DEI efforts. She advocates for a comprehensive approach that involves needs assessments, open dialogue, and a commitment to valuing diverse perspectives. Her message is clear: to build a flourishing community that reflects God’s kingdom, organizations must confront their biases and actively work towards fostering an inclusive culture. Dr. Coleman’s deep conviction and clarity of purpose shine through, making this episode a powerful call to action for all faith-based organizations striving to fulfill their mission in a diverse world.

Takeaways:

• Dr. Cheryl Coleman emphasizes the importance of being your authentic self in all aspects of life.
• True diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts should align with biblical principles and faith-based values.
• The journey of understanding race relations begins with self-reflection and examining personal biases.
• Public policy often misguides communities and can detract from the mission of the church.
• Engaging with diverse perspectives within organizations enhances effectiveness and fosters a sense of belonging.
• Dr. Coleman encourages individuals to seek God’s guidance in understanding their identity beyond societal labels.

Paula Lehman Ewing, an award-winning journalist and author, joins the podcast to discuss her debut book, "Reimagining the Four Stories of Abolition, Autonomy and Forging New Paths in a Modern Civil Rights Movement." Central to the conversation is the concept of the prison industrial complex and its pervasive impact on society, highlighting the need for a complete rethinking of justice beyond mere reform. Paula shares her insights on the systemic issues surrounding mass incarceration and emphasizes the importance of amplifying the voices of those directly affected. She draws on her experiences and interactions with individuals like Ken Oliver, who spent nearly three decades in prison, to underscore the resilience and intelligence of those within the system. The discussion also touches on grassroots movements and innovative approaches to achieving social equity, urging listeners to consider new definitions of justice that prioritize community and restorative practices.

Paula Lehman Ewing, an award-winning journalist and author, converses about her pioneering work in criminal justice reform and her debut book, "Reimagining the Four Stories of Abolition, Autonomy and Forging New Paths in a Modern Civil Rights Movement." Ewing's exploration of the incarceration system unveils the often-unseen struggles of those locked away, emphasizing the necessity of rethinking our approaches to justice and social equity. Ewing's personal journey highlights the influence of her grandmother and mentor Ken Oliver, whose resilience and wisdom have shaped her understanding of the complexities surrounding incarceration and social justice advocacy.

As the discussion progresses, Ewing delves into the intricacies of the prison industrial complex, explaining how it operates as a web of economic and surveillance systems that disproportionately affect certain communities. She draws historical parallels between current practices and past injustices, such as the convict leasing system in the post-Civil War era, revealing the continuity of exploitation within the justice system. Ewing's insights are particularly poignant as she addresses the real-life implications of these systemic issues, using examples from her research and interactions with incarcerated individuals who are striving to create change from within the system.

Ewing advocates for a shift towards restorative justice, a model that focuses on healing rather than punishment, and she shares stories of individuals who have taken the initiative to create community-based solutions. The episode encourages listeners to engage with social movements and consider their roles in advocating for change. Ewing's call to action resonates as she urges the audience to remain curious, challenge binary thinking, and explore how they can contribute to a more just society. This conversation serves not only as an exploration of Ewing's work but also as an invitation for listeners to reflect on their understanding of justice and the importance of amplifying the voices of those affected by the prison system.

Takeaways:

• Paula emphasizes the importance of remaining teachable and curious throughout life.
• The prison industrial complex is a complex network that extends control over society.
• Restorative justice offers a more effective way to serve victims than traditional incarceration.
• Ivan's story highlights the need for community investment to combat recidivism effectively.
• Abolition movements must think beyond binary political solutions to achieve real change.
• Critical Resistance aims to shift power from prisons to communities through grassroots initiatives.

Links referenced in this episode:

• reimaginingtherevolution.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• BuzzFeed News
• Just...