Episode 274: Give Us A King!
L. Joy taps into her “inner church girl” to deliver a powerful civic lesson in this show opening. She draws from First Samuel 8, where the people of Israel, despite having freedom, security, and self-governance, demanded a king to rule over them—ultimately trading their autonomy for oppression. L. Joy makes a compelling parallel between this biblical story and our modern political reality, asking: Have we, too, relinquished our civic power by expecting elected leaders to “save” us while failing to engage in governance ourselves?
Through historical and political analysis, L. Joy breaks down how democracy is designed for participation, not passive observation. She challenges listeners to recognize the consequences of disengagement—how power consolidates in the hands of a few, how government becomes unaccountable, and how billionaire-backed policies shape the nation while everyday people remain on the sidelines.
Next, L. Joy expands on the theme of reclaiming power—not just in governance but also in the economic sphere. She reflects on past lessons from working alongside Rev. Jesse Jackson and the Wall Street Project, which leveraged shareholder influence and strategic advocacy to push for corporate diversity and economic equity.
She discusses the recent surge in calls for economic boycotts, particularly in response to companies rolling back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. While supporting direct action, she emphasizes the importance of having a strategic, informed, and sustained approach to boycotts rather than spontaneous, reactionary efforts.
L. Joy also stresses the burden of leadership when organizing direct action, ensuring that people’s physical, financial, and emotional well-being are prioritized. She shares her cautious approach in leading Brooklyn NAACP members, always knowing and understanding who is organizing a protest, its safety measures, and its strategic impact before committing participation. She reminds listeners, direct action must be intentional, informed, and well-planned to avoid diminishing its impact. Otherwise, we risk reacting emotionally without achieving meaningful change.
Key Considerations for Effective Economic Boycotts:
Define Clear Objectives: What specific outcome do we want? Reinstatement of DEI programs? More diverse leadership? Equitable supplier contracts?
Research the Targeted Company: Are they making real policy changes, or is their rollback just PR?
Assess Potential Impact: Can this boycott significantly affect the company’s bottom line? Are there alternative businesses to support?
Develop a Comprehensive Strategy: Combine the boycott with public awareness, shareholder activism, and direct engagement with company leadership.
Involve and Educate the Community: Boycotts require collective action and sustained organizing, not just viral social media posts.
Take Civic Action
Do Now: L. Joy a challenges us to reclaim our civic power.
Set aside immediate frustrations with political leaders or current events and focus on one actionable step you can take toward a more just future such as supporting diverse candidates, advocating for policies that help working parents, or strengthening existing community organizations,. Everyone has a role in shaping the world they want to see.
Identify Three Areas Where You’ve Handed Over Power
Have you stopped paying attention to local government decisions?
Do you engage with your city council member after voting for them?
Are you aware of how policy changes affect your daily life?
Find a Way to Reclaim It
Attend a local meeting (many are now virtual).
Organize a petition or support grassroots movements.
Back up leaders and organizers already in the fight.
Act Consistently, Not Just During Elections
Civic engagement isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing responsibility.
Don’t wait for a “savior” or the next election cycle—participate in shaping policy now.