First hour: Understanding the Doomsday Clock
Second hour: New art series explores racial justice
The Doomsday Clock has just moved forward; we are now two minutes to midnight. Scientists created the clock in the 1940s as a way or demonstrating how close they think we are to the possible extinction of the mankind. Their predictions are based on threats of nuclear war, climate change, and more. So why are we the closest to midnight since 1953? Our experts share their insight. Our guests:
- Tom Weber, assistant professor of earth and environmental sciences at the University of Rochester
- Wes Renfro, chair of the Department of Political Science and Legal Studies at St. John Fisher College
Then in our second hour, a new art series called "At the Crossroads: Activating the Intersection of Art and Justice" is exploring themes of racial justice. One of the installations is called "Black Magic Slays the Magical Negro." What is the Magical Negro? The concept, largely credited to Spike Lee, describes one black character in art or film that is designed as a savior – saving white people or the white race. The concept shows up in politics too; recent calls for Oprah and Michelle Obama are examples. This hour, we discuss the concept, and how the art series can spark community conversations. Our guests:
- Rachel DeGuzman, president and CEO of 21st Century Arts, and an artist in residence at Gallery 74
- Reenah Golden-Collier, co-creator of Kuumba Consultants
- N'Jelle Gage-Thorne, founder and director of FuturPointe Dance
