Book Episode #3: When Affirmative Action Was White, by Ira Katznelson (Chapter 3-5)

In this episode of 'Propaganda Loves You,' hosts Joe, Arthur, and Kodie delve into a comprehensive discussion on the history and intricacies of affirmative action, focusing on Ira Katznelson’s book 'When Affirmative Action Was White.' They explore the impact of the New Deal era on black and white communities, the complex racial dynamics during World War II, and the inequities in the GI Bill post-war era. The conversation highlights systemic racism embedded in federal programs, the persistence of forced labor within the prison system, and the reality behind state and local administration of seemingly inclusive laws. The episode underscores the importance of solidarity across communities in addressing these deeply rooted societal issues.

00:00 Introduction and Recap

00:37 World War II Era and Affirmative Action

01:45 Debating the Book Title

02:51 Labor and Racial Caste System

04:39 Explicit Racism in Legislation

05:20 Historical Quotes and Analysis

08:25 Unionization and Racial Divide

21:58 Military Integration and Racism

39:49 GI Bill and Racial Inequality

40:00 The Impact of the GI Bill on Post-War America

40:18 Reading and Discussing Chapter Five

41:36 Racial Disparities in the GI Bill

45:22 John Rankin and the Southern Influence

46:32 State and Local Control of Federal Programs

49:25 The Legacy of Racial Inequality

01:00:16 The Prison Industrial Complex

01:13:35 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions

Captive Labor: Exploitation of Incarcerated Workers | American Civil Liberties Union