In a crucial discussion, Hard Knock Radio host Davey D interviews Dr. Rosa Clemente, a journalist, political activist, and former vice-presidential candidate. They discuss the rising threats to education, civil rights, and the broader implications of political shifts in the U.S.
The Attack on Education and Civil Rights
Dr. Rosa Clemente warns that an executive order could soon dismantle the Department of Education. Many people don’t realize that this decision affects Pell Grants, special education programs, and student loans. Clemente emphasizes that the attack on education is not just about curriculum but a broader effort to suppress marginalized communities.
She compares these actions to fascist regimes, stating that the first targets are always teachers and artists. Universities are now afraid to address equity, diversity, and inclusion (DEI), fearing backlash.
Erasing History and Targeting Professors
Clemente highlights how history is being erased at an alarming rate. Universities are under investigation for what the government calls “anti-Semitic discrimination”, yet there is little mention of Islamophobia or discrimination against other marginalized groups.
She notes that the most attacked fields include Black Studies, Chicano Studies, Native American Studies, and LGBTQ+ Studies. At the same time, tenure protections are under threat in 11 states, leaving professors vulnerable to political pressure.
The Rise of Anti-Intellectualism
Davey D points out how anti-intellectualism has systematically devalued education. He connects this to figures like Kanye West, who famously dismissed reading, and media outlets that downplay research by labeling it as “woke.”
Clemente agrees, referencing Lupe Fiasco’s song “Dumb It Down,” which critiques how society discourages critical thinking. She argues that discrediting intellectuals makes it easier to manipulate public opinion and justify extreme policies.
Economic and Social Devastation
Beyond education, Clemente outlines a wider economic attack, including:
- Mass job cuts in the federal government – Over 400,000 people have been laid off, disproportionately affecting Black and Brown workers.
- Veterans Administration layoffs – The government plans to cut 80,000 jobs, worsening care for veterans.
- Social Security restrictions – Elderly and disabled citizens must now physically visit offices to prove their identity, even as these offices shut down.
The ripple effect will devastate small businesses, as federal workers and service users disappear from local economies.
The Need for Local Organizing
Clemente stresses that national movements have failed, pointing to the shortcomings of Black Lives Matter’s national organization. Instead, she calls for local organizing, mutual aid, and cooperative economics.
She highlights efforts by Cooperation Jackson, which is pushing for a general strike on October 14th to protest economic injustice.
The Role of Divide-and-Conquer Tactics
Davey D warns that division weakens movements. He criticizes how different communities—Black, Brown, LGBTQ+, and feminist groups—have been isolated and turned against each other. Meanwhile, right-wing groups, evangelicals, and extremists have united under a common cause.
Clemente agrees, arguing that the Democratic Party has failed to stand up. She believes corporate Democrats have cut a deal, allowing far-right policies to advance while sidelining progressive voices.
Segregation and the Return of Jim Crow Policies
Clemente reveals that federal contracts no longer explicitly ban segregated facilities, signaling a return to Jim Crow-era policies.
Davey D warns that this is a direct response to DEI programs. Safe spaces once created for marginalized students are now being weaponized to justify white-only spaces under the guise of “fairness.”
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Clemente urges people to:
- Strengthen local communities through cooperative economics and mutual aid.
- Educate themselves and push back against the erasure of history.
- Support the general strike on October 14th to demand systemic change.
- Stay engaged by following movements like Cooperation Jackson and independent media.
She emphasizes that empire does not last forever, and collective action can turn the tide.
How to Connect with Dr. Rosa Clemente
Follow Dr. Rosa Clemente on:
- Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube
- Watch her weekly show, “Disrupt the Chaos,” sponsored by Cooperation Jackson.
Stay tuned to Hard Knock Radio for more critical conversations.
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.