DeepSummary
In this podcast episode, poet and ornithologist J. Drew Lanham performed a live adaptation of his poem "Joy is the Justice We Give Ourselves" at an On Being event in January 2024. The poetic piece explores the concept of joy as a form of justice and resilience for marginalized communities, touching on themes of racial injustice, environmental justice, and the beauty of nature.
Lanham's poetry weaves together vivid imagery of birds and the natural world with powerful reflections on the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans throughout history. He celebrates the enduring spirit of his ancestors and their ability to find joy amidst adversity, while also calling for societal change and a more equitable future.
Through his evocative language and emotive delivery, Lanham invites listeners to embrace joy as a radical act of self-affirmation and a source of strength in the face of ongoing injustice. His performance serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Joy can be a form of justice and self-affirmation for marginalized communities.
- Environmental justice and connection to the natural world are intrinsically tied to social justice.
- Embracing joy is a radical act of resilience in the face of ongoing injustice and adversity.
- Art and poetry can serve as powerful vehicles for exploring themes of oppression, resilience, and hope.
- The enduring spirit and perseverance of marginalized communities throughout history should be celebrated and honored.
- Finding beauty and wonder in the present moment and the natural world can be a source of joy.
- Reclaiming cultural and environmental heritage is an important aspect of justice and self-affirmation.
- Truth and dismantling harmful myths and narratives are crucial for achieving equity and justice.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “Joy is the justice we give ourselves. It is Maya's bird, sung free past the prison bars holding spirits bound without due process, without just cause.“ by J. Drew Lanham
- “Joy is the steady running stream rites sprung up from moss soft ground under hanging trees nourished by blood grown through pain now seeping sweet equality's demands made clear from sea to shining sea, north to south, west to east, fly over heartland in between.“ by J. Drew Lanham
- “Joy is the soul underneath the journey gaze snagged on wonder, not knowing final destination, yet blessed as a witness moored to ground.“ by J. Drew Lanham
- “Joy is the generations come before surviving the struggle somehow staying strong in the midst of withering storms, from shackled ancestors through Jim crowed back doors to gerrymandered chokeholds. Now Joy is the payoff for those often down but never out.“ by J. Drew Lanham
Entities
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Episode Information
On Being with Krista Tippett
On Being Studios
5/24/24