Professor Eddie Glaude, Jr. Discusses America at a Crossroads

On this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day—a day that also marks the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump—That Said with Michael Zeldin presents a compelling and timely conversation with Professor Eddie Glaude Jr., a renowned scholar of African American studies and political thought. The episode delves into the themes of race, democracy, and identity as America stands at a pivotal moment in its history. Reflecting on the 2024 election, the enduring lessons of James Baldwin, and the nation’s perpetual struggle to define itself, this discussion offers a profound exploration of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Professor Glaude underscores the continued relevance of James Baldwin’s insights on democracy and racial justice. Baldwin’s observations about the nation’s tipping points—moments when America could either confront its systemic inequities or retreat into its historical patterns—resonate deeply in the current context. The parallels between Baldwin’s era and today’s cultural struggles highlight the persistent challenges of forging a multiracial democracy.

The conversation examines the 2024 presidential election, analyzing the dynamics of race, gender, and class that shaped the outcome. Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign faced significant challenges, including issues of connection with working-class voters and the pervasive influence of identity politics. Glaude’s critique extends to the broader political landscape, where split-ticket voting and nuanced voter behavior underscored deep-seated societal divisions.

America’s struggle to reconcile its ideals with its realities forms a central theme of the discussion. Professor Glaude illustrates this tension through the story of Moses Gordon, a man whose life encapsulated the cyclical nature of progress and regression in American history. The broader question—what it means to define a truly inclusive democracy—remains as urgent as ever.

Economic disparities and social inequities are key factors driving political and cultural polarization. Glaude discusses how narratives of resentment and blame—exemplified by Trump’s “permission structure”—exploit societal divisions, further entrenching anti-democratic forces.

A sharp critique of Democratic leadership emerges in the conversation, with Glaude questioning the party’s reliance on outdated strategies aimed at appealing to “Reagan Democrats.” He argues that prioritizing neoliberal policies over grassroots engagement has left the base unmotivated and disconnected.

Professor Glaude champions the power of grassroots movements as the engine of sustainable change. Drawing on examples like the Minnesota Miracle, he calls for a shift away from top-down leadership models toward community-driven initiatives that reflect the values and needs of everyday citizens.

The conversation addresses the challenges faced by contemporary movements like Black Lives Matter, Me Too, and Occupy Wall Street. Glaude reflects on how these movements have evolved and, in some cases, lost momentum, emphasizing the importance of consistent organizing and accountability to achieve lasting impact.

Balancing hope and realism, Glaude invokes the wisdom of Baldwin and W.E.B. Du Bois to argue for a “hope that is not hopeless but unhopeful.” He calls on individuals and communities to take responsibility for shaping the nation’s future, acknowledging the difficulty but affirming the necessity of the fight.

A discussion of the current “woke scare” draws parallels to historical red scares, exploring how the cultural backlash against diversity and equity threatens democratic institutions. Glaude warns of the implications for education, governance, and society.

As America stands at a metaphorical crossroads, Zeldin and Glaude challenge listeners to confront the nation’s myths and illusions. The choice between retreating into old paradigms or embracing transformative change will determine the trajectory of American democracy. Glaude’s call to “get on our toes and fight for the world we want” resonates as a rallying cry for collective action and courageous leadership.

This episode of That Said offers a sobering assessment of America’s challenges and an inspiring vision for what is possible when individuals and communities rise to meet them. For communications professionals, the themes discussed—narrative framing, grassroots engagement, and cultural critique—provide valuable insights into the role of storytelling and advocacy in shaping public discourse and driving societal change.