Department of Africology and African American Studies Panel Discussion on “The Impact of US Elections on African Americans” on The Neoliberal Round Podcast Moderator: Rev. Renaldo McKenzie, Temple PhD Student, Author of Neoliberalism, Globalization, Income Inequality, Poverty and Resistance Chairman: Dr. Ama Mazama, Author of The Afrocentric Paradigm, Head of the Africology Department at Temple Panelists: Dr. Jared Clemmons, Temple's Political Science Professor Dr. Zamir Ben-Dan, Temple's Law Professor Date: 11.05.2024 1. Opening Remarks: What has been the impact of US Elections on African Americans? 2. Panelist Introductions: Brief introduction of each panelist, their background, and relevant expertise. 3. Moderated Questions (1 hour, with approx. 5-7 minutes per question): Below are the suggested questions, covering a range of political, economic, and cultural impacts. 4. Audience Q/A: Open to questions from the audience. 5. Closing Remarks and Take-aways. Questions: 1. Historical and Structural Impact  What has been the impact of U.S. elections on African Americans historically? 2. Progress or Symbolism?  With Kamala Harris, an African American and South Asian woman, serving as Vice President, is this symbolic progress, or does it signal genuine political and social advancement for African Americans? 3. Electoral Process and Representation  Civil rights lawyer Lani Guinier argues that the electoral process fails to provide adequate representation for African Americans. Do you believe this is a fair criticism, and how does it apply in today’s political climate? 4. Policy Impact and Economic Disparity  How effective have policies like the Voting Rights Act, Affirmative Action, DEI initiatives, and Obamacare been in addressing economic and social disparities for African Americans? Follow-up: With recent attacks on Affirmative Action and Critical Race Theory, how could these shifts impact African Americans’ socioeconomic status and political power? 5. Crime, Poverty, and Urban Investment  In areas with large African American populations, high rates of poverty, crime, and limited investment are common. Have recent election outcomes led to effective policies that address these issues? Follow-up: What does data suggest about the correlation between elected officials' actions and improvements in these communities? 6. The Role of Agency and African-Centered Consciousness  Some argue that political empowerment for African Americans begins with a consciousness rooted in African identity and heritage. Should policies focus on fostering a cultural consciousness as a basis for African American empowerment, and is there political will for such policies? Follow-up: Can fostering African-centered institutions or education contribute to better representation and agency within the political system? 7. Economic Opportunities and Systemic Challenges  What specific economic policies have been effective in uplifting African Americans, considering historical discrimination? Follow-up: Given the recent economic challenges and a history of exclusion from generational wealth-building opportunities, is there room for transformative policies like reparations or investment funds targeted at African American communities? 8. Media and Political Narratives  How has the media shaped African Americans ' perceptions of political figures and policies, and what role does it play in influencing voting behaviors and policy support? 9. Future Directions in African American Political Engagement  Looking ahead, how can African Americans leverage their voting power to drive more significant policy changes? Are there any current movements or leaders effectively channeling this potential? Follow-up: How can African American communities build coalitions or use collective agency to push for long-term structural changes? https://theneoliberal.com A Production of The Neol