The Democratic Party has an identity problem with voters nationwide, and especially in the South. But a rising wave of young party activists is seeking to bring new energy and ideas into some of the most conservative areas of the country — like Knox County, Tennessee, which has been sending Republicans to Congress since the Civil War. This week, Jesse talks to Solomon Trapp and Julia Kaye, two organizers of a new Young Democrats chapter in the county. They say there is a hunger among younger Southerners for alternatives to prevailing political powers, which aren’t addressing their needs.
Also: Curriculum fights across the South. Texas reshapes its social studies standards to emphasize the state’s accomplishments and downplay less admirable parts of its history. Florida’s war on sociology. And in Virginia, some tensions about how to teach the events of January 6th.
Plus: A look at the Arkansas Folk Festival, marking its 64th year this weekend.
Show Notes:
“Texas students urge education board to focus on inclusion over politics in social studies overhaul” The Texas Tribune
“Texas is changing its social studies curriculum. Critics say it’s too state-centric” KUT News
“Hey State Board of Education, what’s the rush?” Texas Freedom Network
“Sociology no longer a general education course at Florida universities” Florida Phoenix
“Bill to require factual teaching about U.S. Capitol attack clears Va. General Assembly” Virginia Mercury
“HB 333” Virginia General Assembly
“Letter Urges Gov. Spanberger to Veto VA Bill Limiting Teaching About January 6” PEN America
64th Annual Arkansas Folk Festival
“A Brief History of the Arkansas Folk Festival” Lyon College