Episode 275: Wielding Our Civic Power
In this episode, L. Joy opens by emphasizing the urgency of civic engagement in today's political and economic landscape. She shares the grassroots organizing efforts of her assistant and one of her thoroughest girls, June, who is advocating for truly affordable housing in Harlem. Through tenant organizing, attending community meetings, and holding landlords and elected officials accountable, L. Joy says June serves as a blueprint for transforming personal struggles into broader advocacy efforts. Her speech at a recent press conference (recording courtesy of WKIM community news) underscores the power of collective action and the necessity of mobilizing communities against systemic injustices.
Expanding the conversation to corporate accountability, L. Joy urges listeners not to focus solely on national companies, but also on local businesses, landlords, and developers. And calls for sustained pressure on elected officials because business is not usual, and leaders must be held to account for their decisions, campaign contributions, and legislative priorities.
Giving us a mini history lesson, L. Joy connects Reconstruction, the Gilded Age, labor movements, and civil rights activism to illustrate how the wealthy have historically manipulated racial and economic divisions to maintain power. From the Pullman Strike to the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, she underscores that every major social reform has been driven by grassroots civic action, not government benevolence. She reminds listeners that these same oppressive tactics are being used today—whether through privatization, deregulation, or union-busting efforts—and must be met with aggressive civic resistance. She reminds listeners to resist complacency, reminding them that while they may be able to tune out the news, the consequences of government overreach will eventually reach their doorsteps. Acknowledging that activism can feel overwhelming, especially for those balancing jobs and families, L. Joy breaks down the concept of rotation in civic engagement, comparing it to military strategy—some will be on the front lines while others regroup and rest.
As she closes, L. Joy reflects on her experience at the NAACP Image Awards, thanking listeners for voting for #SundayCicivics in the Outstanding News and Information Podcast category. While she didn’t win, she affirms that her true reward is empowering listeners to take civic action.
Do Now
Get Local & Get Loud:
Identify Power in Your Community
Research the largest employers, developers, and landlords in your city or neighborhood.
Look up campaign contributions of local elected officials. Are they funded by corporations or real estate developers?
Find out if any businesses benefit from public funds, incentives, or contracts—then demand accountability!
Organize a Small Gathering
Hold a small meeting (virtual or in-person) to discuss the biggest issues affecting your community.
Use this time to brainstorm action steps—writing letters, attending hearings, or even planning a direct action.
Check the Scoreboard: Who’s Really Representing You?
Look up recent city council, state legislature, or congressional votes that affect your community.
Cross-check those votes with who’s funding them—are they working for the people or for corporate interests?
If they’re not standing with the people, start organizing around holding them accountable in the next election.
Commit to One Bold Action This Week
Post on social media calling attention to an issue in your neighborhood.
Show up at a public hearing or community board meeting.
Start a petition or write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper.
Share this episode of #SundayCIvics with 3 people and challenge them to take action too!