When Moms Press On...

From the minute she burst onto the scene, Cindy Sheehan has been a lightening rod. It seems the labeling of her activism saw both ends of the spectrum. She was either viewed as the Mother Theresa of the anti-war movement -- the woman who sacrificed her life so that other women's children would be spared -- or the worst of the worst, using her son Casey's death in Iraq to advance her own personal agenda ("attention whore" was the word she used on her blog posting to describe how her critics referenced her).

I remember when she first began camping out in Crawford, Texas, in August 2005. Her son, Casey, had been killed the year before. She told anybody who would listen that she just wanted answers about what Casey's death was really for. The President even sent his National Security Adviser, Stephen Hadley, out to meet with her. Of course, what she really wanted was to meet the President himself. He would not, and never did meet with her.

In my reporter's conceit, I always wondered: Why wouldn't the President just send his "secret weapon" out instead -- that would be Laura Bush, of course -- who could have invited her over for egg salad sandwiches and iced tea when the President was out cutting brush or something? I thought Laura might connect with her mother-to-mother. Hey, nobody's paying me for this advice, so I kept it to myself (until now), but I always wondered what would have happened if the President had connected to Cindy Sheehan as a grieving mother instead of as some hard-edged "lefty" political activist.

At any rate, the grieving mother and outspoken political activist has decided to withdraw. She says she's finished with activism because both parties have failed her. She now believes her son died for nothing. You can read her statement for yourself here.

As it turns out, I got to talk to a woman who actually did manage to meet the President and tell him precisely what was on her mind. Her name is Elaine Johnson and she is one of three "Gold Star" mothers I talked to on today's program. They decided to channel their grief about losing their soldier sons into actively opposing the war. Elaine, Doris Kent and Celeste Zapalla are three women united by one cause.

Here's a short film on YouTube, The Corporal's Boots. It highlights an exhibit of fallen soldiers, including Doris' son, Jonathan:

This is by no means meant to be a definitive picture, nor is it meant to imply that all mothers agree with these women. But on Monday, we decided to observe Memorial Day, in part, by visiting with families at Arlington National Cemetery. They were dealing with their grief in one way. Cindy Sheehan chose to deal with hers in another way...and she also made her big "stepping down" announcement on Memorial Day.

I know. A lot of people don't like, or disagree, with what they're doing; but I do think we have to honor the fact that their right to speak freely is exactly what their sons fought to defend.

Also, while I'm thinking about it, I just wanted to flag my convo with Xolela Mangcu. His name is actually pronounced with the "clicks" from the Xhosa language (please, don't try this at home, folks. I wish I could get it right...it sounds so cool!). Xolela was the victim of a carjacking and decided to talk about it two years after the fact. Why the delayed reaction? He says he didn't want to be accused of playing into racist stereotypes about how black folks can't run a country. You know these stereotypes do exist, right?

Talk to us: Was his reason for waiting eerily familiar to you?
The issues are so similar, so human, to wit: Just when is the time to air the "dirty laundry" of a family, a neighborhood, a community, a nation...your culture?
Even at the expense of looking bad to the outside world?
Where do you come out on this?

OK, I'm out...I have real laundry to do.

Michel Martin

10:00 PM ET | 05-31-2007 | permalink | comments (7) | e-mail post

Just Two Things...

We were thinking about how we could cover President Bush's announcement about Sudan and the also-major news about the Nigerian presidency, and we immediately knew who we needed to talk to and who you might appreciate hearing from...Dr. Jendayi Frazer. She's sharp, smart, knows her stuff and is, literally, on the move...

A fresh squeeze of behind-the-curtain juice:
We knew we wanted to talk to her, just didn't know where, how and when (you know, all the essentials...who needs them, right?). Guess you can say we were lingering between wishful thinking and actualizing the "get." The long-short? Fabulous Tell Me More head honcho (or honchette?) producer Marie Nelson was able to track her down and, as it turned out, she was actually in Africa attending the Nigerian president's inaugural festivities. But there was one condition to her talking to us -- it had to happen "now," as in right then and there. Yeah, crazy I know. She wasn't cold about it at all, just one of those get-in-where-you-fit-in kind of situations...she has a robust calendar.

Of course, any interview deserves its fair share of preparation, but in this business, when someone says now or never...you go with what you know and the rest is on a wing and a prayer. Besides, what were we supposed to say..."Umm...sorry, Ms. Frazer. We'll catch up with you later"? Not! She's U.S. Assistant Secretary of State. A no-brainer there.

In the end, we thought it went well. You be the judge. Take a listen and let us know what you think...

Moving on to the FDA and gay blood.

One of our producers put us on to this story. Not that it was breaking news, but we were intrigued by the fact that for over twenty years its been widely accepted that any man who's had sex with another man since 1977 is banned from donating blood. Ever.

Thought this could prompt interesting (and, of course, mixed) thoughts, especially if you're a routine blood donor, or if you've ever received blood that is not your own. Across the board, everyone seems to agree that it's a matter of public safety. Few arguments there.

But I'm particularly interested in knowing what you thought about a point our guest, Joel Ginsberg, raised. He argues that heterosexual men or women -- who in some cases, have an even more extensive sexual history than some homosexuals -- are not held to the same degree of precaution, nor is their sexual promiscuity perceived as potentially hazardous as gays.

Just a note that we did reach out to the FDA on this. We haven't yet heard back from them (we might at a later time), but you can learn more about the policy here.

What are your thoughts on this?...On Ginsberg's arguments?

Told you this morning we had a good show in the works. I try and live up to my word...

Michel Martin

6:02 PM ET | 05-30-2007 | permalink | comments (11) | e-mail post

Early Bird Musings

Source: iStock

Early here...With all the later posts, figured I'd switch things up a bit today.

Our lead story yesterday started out as a "reader" -- a short clip I overheard on the local news while I was brushing my teeth (Can we say TMI?) and I thought...what a novel idea? The issue: a group of black professional employees -- personal bankers, financial advisers -- say they were steered to offer their services only in majority black neighborhoods. And when they complained, their employer, industry behemoth Bank of America, told them that's the way customers would want it to be. Now, B of A didn't want to talk to us -- they said they weren't ready and they issued a statement about how they don't discriminate (you can read it here).

But we were interested in the issue of customer preference. Can an institution do that, if it believes that's what customers want?

We heard from the lawyer for the plaintiffs, and a lawyer for the EEOC (NOT a party to the suit, we just wanted the big picture). We still hope to hear rfom B of A. It's an interesting dilemma.

Speaking of interesting...did you know we have this interesting relationship with the Washington Post Sunday Magazine? Here's how it works: they give us "dibs" on their upcoming stories and if we think there's something there of interest to you, we get the writer (and hopefully one of the subjects) involved to talk more about it. Yesterday there were two.

And finally....you all have responded to our call out for money dilemmas like CHAMPS. We are moved and humbled by your trust in sharing these stories with us. We also hope you're getting some interesting tips even if we don't select you as one of the participants. And for those of you who've written in to weigh in with your OWN advice, how awesome is that? Let's keep it flowing.

Gotta go...working on a high-powered show for you today...

Michel Martin

6:50 AM ET | 05-30-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Memorial Day: The Truth Is...

Memorial Day 2007 has come...and is now fading away. Today's Final Thoughts was (and is) an attempt to bring you the sometimes complex mix of emotions, obervations this day can bring.

We are a nation at war. Thousands have lost their lives and...the truth is...for scores of Americans, today has a sole meaning -- it's a day of excrutiating pain. Being remembered are
ordinary citizens-turned extraordinary public servants, who sacrificed their lives...and for some, their politics...for what they perceived to be a greater good. The truth is...nearly a thousand troops who were with us just last Memorial Day have perished in the war. They're no longer here. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families.

But also true for many, today is a much-deserved day off. A day to exhale. An extended weekend...a three-day vacation...a day at the beach...the grill...or however one should choose to spend it. (For what it's worth, we were working here). It's a day for raising a glass...or a rib...to relaxation.

Two different meanings in a nation divided by its politics, ideas...and experiences. As I mentioned, we wanted the show today to illustrate, in some way, the both AND....

Which best describes where you "are" today? Or, for you, is it a blendof emotions? Wherever you fall on the spectrum of observance, we hope this Memorial Day was a meaningful one...

Michel Martin

8:21 PM ET | 05-28-2007 | permalink | comments (3) | e-mail post

A Day With WNBA's Washington Mystics

What did you think about the story? It was so fun. We actually hung out at the sports arena here in D.C. (Good to get out of the studio and my office. Love NPR but...you know what I mean).

No, I wasn't sitting on the bench looking sad...having my daytime "hoop dreams." Your girl actually got suited up, out on the court...and these women, most of whom I, literally, looked up to, schooled me on the game. And, my, did they ever work me out.

YES, Coco, I am still sore. Thank you very much!

All jokes aside: I hope they had as much fun with me as I did hanging out with them.

And, I hope youenjoyed the segment.

Michel Martin

11:03 PM ET | 05-24-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

When 'Challenge' Is Reality

One of the things people really liked -- and disliked -- about Roseanne Barr's show in the late 80's/early 90's was that it brought characters into our homes that still knew a little bit about struggle...what it felt like to be concerned with making ends meet. They were far from perfect and weren't particularly well-off contrary to some of the others on TV, pretending to cry the Hill Street Blues, living a Dynasty or even...living like The Cosbys.

(I'll always cherish the Cosby days for many important reasons, but Cliff and Clair weren't necessarily hurtin' at the bank...but there was a reason for that, too. Anyone remember Good Times?).

Where are you going with this, Michel?

I'm trying to convey that on today's program, we wanted to do the same by highlighting the Food Stamp Challenge, where lawmakers -- and others who will likely never have to live a day on food stamps -- are taking up the cause with on a very meager food budget. Admirable, of course. And although it was a thoughtful and even fun story, the reality is that there are people...in this America...who live on $20/week (or less) for food; people honestly trying to make ends meet, but still live that reality.

We don't hear these stories often. We live our lives, retreat to our homes, open the fridge and grab (or beckon for) whatever we want...and then we swallow it. End of story. Out of sight, out of mind, right? Today, Tell Me More thought it might do good to remind you that such is not the case for everyone...

After today's broadcast, we heard from a mother living in Stamford, Connecticut. She's in school, furthering her education. Instead of taking what many might consider the more convenient route -- working one or two steady jobs to pay the bills, tired at the end of the day, but making weekly trips to the store to replenish the kids' weekly "fix" for Cap'n Crunch -- she chose delayed gratification...exchanging one grind for another: the classroom. She's furthering her education...and financially struggling to an extent that it's excruciating.
We feel like it's our social responsibility to let you know stories like hers.
(You'll read from her in the comment thread below...)

If any one knows of assistance for working moms who are also in school...doing the best they can, please share that knowledge here on the blog. Especially if you know of resources in the Stamford area. The least we can do (all of us) is help her connect the dots that could offer her some relief.

Just dropping knowledge...

Michel Martin

10:40 PM ET | 05-24-2007 | permalink | comments (1) | e-mail post

Muslim in America

Source: Krowdog

It's amazing that September 11th permanently affected how a particular group is viewed in the U.S...and, in many cases, even how they view themselves.

Also interesting to see how younger generations of Muslim Americans see themselves. In a sense, maybe it's parallel to other religions and cultures -- the younger folks seem to always assume a different perspective than the elders...or at least they try. But to have one 1 in 4 believe suicide bombings are OK in "some" circumstances?...That's alarming.

...Or is it really? During racially or ethnically tense times in this country's not-so-distant past, we know that any number of Americans believed there might be a day when violence might be necessary to safeguard what was, arguably, in jeopardy: a culture with freedom to express, assemble and self-identify without fear of that being taken away. Anybody remember the Civil War?

Didn't Mr. Lincoln break it down when reminded us, in his poignant second inaugural address, that of the union and the confederates "Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not, that we be not judged."

I find myself going back to those words when I am tempted to believe that anyone who does not see the world as I do must be crazy. Thank you, Mr. Lincoln.

So, violence, especially against civilians. Justifiable? No. Explainable? Let's talk...

The larger theme, however, is that Muslim Americans are assimilating into American society. And, according to the report, it's happening smoothly, even joyfully for most. There are some bumps and bruises, especially after September 11.

We'd like to hear about all of it, if you'd care to tell us.
Are you Muslim in America? What's your take on the Pew Center's findings? Agree?

If you're younger (or older) how do you feel that might affect your outlook?

Your turn...

Michel Martin

8:29 PM ET | 05-23-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

TMM is a Witness...

Can I just tell you? The Terrence Howard interview surprised us in many ways. I'll let you in on something: last night, we actually thought about canning it. Obviously, we decided not to. I'm glad we didn't. This afternoon the story was at the TOP (my web producer wants me to shout here) of NPR's list of "Top E-mailed Stories"...in fact, it still is.

So, what happened 'behind-the-scenes' at Tell Me More? Let's backtrack a bit...

We approached the interview with Terrence believing him to be a Jehovah's Witness. (It's in the papers and on websites -- incorrectly -- that this is true. Even he acknowledged the common misconception in the interview). We're thinking: he's introducing this documentary on PBS on this religion...his religion...that some people, quite honestly, find strange and it would be good to talk to him about the project. Then...things head in a different direction. Before we knew it, deep strokes of intro- and retrospection began to flood the conversation. We had no idea about his..."conflict."

In the end, what came through clear was that he really is having an interesting time reconciling his faith with his everyday life. I mean, to most people he's "award-winning-actor-who's-living-the-life, Terrence Howard." He's the debonair man, although known to sometimes play "gritty" roles, who we all see on the big screen and on the red carpet doing his thing.

Now, we're saying who knew?

But after thinking about it...haven't we all experienced this reality at some point in life?...When the matters of the heart conflict with our will -- that stubborn will? It's like tug-of-war and, of course, the "you" involved seems to always be trapped in the middle.

The lesson for us: if something doesn't turn out the exact way you expected, that doesn't necessarily mean it's a total loss. Go with the flow when it seems right. You never know where it might lead...

Lesson for you (and for us): Be conscious of your conflict...whatever it might be.

Michel Martin

8:36 PM ET | 05-22-2007 | permalink | comments (345) | e-mail post

Now Boarding the 'Money Train'

Source: DWinton

If you've been with us from the beginning, you might remember our first series, Hip Hop: Under Fire. We talked about the post-Imus focus on hip hop lyrics -- the role of the "video vixen," how white folks (the majority of hip hop consumers) engage the music... Now, we've got another one on our agenda and this time we want your help. Or, rather, we want to help you...

"Money Train: How to Get (And Keep) Your Finances on Track."

Consider this a call-out. We're looking for participants in three distinct areas: we're looking for someone who wants to start a business, we're looking for someone who wants to buy a first home...and we're looking for someone who struggles with "all things budget" For the latter, we're talking debt, overspending, overgiving...you name it.

This summer, one of our coaches, best-selling author Alvin Hall, will "drive the train" and walk a select group (chosen from our blog) through the ins and outs of their greatest financial challenges. Tell Me More and our listeners will keep track of the progress through weekly check-ins with Alvin.

The goal is to help put you on the road to fiscal responsibility and freedom. (Uh, no, we won't be paying your bills...still paying our own). Personal attention can be hard to come by these days, so consider this opportunity knocking at your door!

We're standing by to read your stories. The more descriptive you are, the better your chances at being selected to participate.

Let the submissions begin!

Added note: please remember, your experiences will be featured on a national stage (our show and blog), so don't sign up unless you're comfortable with your story being immortalized by our program. We're looking for details.

Michel Martin

7:48 PM ET | 05-21-2007 | permalink | comments (28) | e-mail post

Follow Up: 1/3 America

In our show on Friday we talked about the big 100 million -- the fact that minorities now comprise a third of the U.S. population. We explored how two towns in New Jersey are adjusting to change...but we want to do more. Does your city or town have a new flavor than it did a decade or two ago because of immigration? As a result, are there new doctors, techies, day laborers or small business people in town? Where are they coming from? How are they being received?

Or, are you a new-comer to a place you never expected to be? Stranger in a strange land? How's it going for you? Does this whole conversation about the new multiracial America make you feel like the new "normal?" Or, does it highlight differences you'd just as soon not notice?

Let us know...These are the stories we want to tell.

Michel Martin

7:00 PM ET | 05-21-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Cultural Infusions

I try not to book out of the newspapers -- at least not the big ones -- but when USA TODAY puts a big whopping 100 MILLION in your face, you kind of have to go...OK.

I'm talking about the fact that this country is now officially one third "minority:" over 100 million people here are people of color.

This hits us where we live -- literally. One of the core concepts of this program has always been the "multicultural experience," that is to say, what does it mean that we are this melting pot or whatever, and not Sweden or Finland?

So, over the next few weeks -- or however long its interesting and makes sense to do -- we want to explore the implications of those numbers. We started off in New Jersey because we just happened to know that there's an excellent immigration reporter at the Bergen Record who keeps track of how smaller cities are coping with change. (We also had two leaders on from two different small cities in New jersey to talk about what's going on.)

But here's where we could really use your help: we're interested in other cities and towns where change has come. And we'd like to talk to you (or them) about it...especially about places that are unexpected -- Darfurians in Indiana, Vietnamese in Idaho. That is to say, not the major cities and coastal areas like New York, LA, Miami and south Texas (places that we usually associate with immigration).

If you have a story to tell we want to hear it and, I'll be real about it, we want the real stuff -- irritations, strong bonds, big disputes. Of course, we want it all...

Next week, we're looking ahead to the immigration bill that's supposed to be debated Monday in the Senate. We know it'll be big news all weekend, but we plan to get beyond the headlines and drill into some deeper questions about what we are really saying with our immigration policy.

And, as if there aren't already enough reasons to stay tuned, we'll have some celebs for you. They'll talk about some atypical celeb subjects. No, I cannot (or at least will not) reveal all. You'll just have to come back and see us.

Have a great weekend...I plan to try.

Michel Martin

7:49 PM ET | 05-18-2007 | permalink | comments (3) | e-mail post

The Liberian President Also Made It Special...

Thanks, Lee...and everybody.

It's not that I thought everybody forgot, exactly. It's that my lip was poked out because I normally take my birthday off and disappear for the day...and well...I can't...so thanks everybody. (I won't go into the details of the whole menu because I don't want to incite envy but suffice it to say...SOUL food was in the house. YUM!)

And actually, I cannot complain because today was a seminal day for me and for Tell Me More. Told you we would have major "mover" on today and we did. We have been pursuing an interview with Madame President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for quite some time. We were finally able to meet with her when she was here in Washington. You can check out the interviews here.

It might be interesting to mention that one reason we have not been able to speak with her before now is that one cannot always secure a reliable landline at the President's mansion. Now think about that. Can you imagine our President not always being able to have secure communication with the outside world at his will? It should give you some idea of the challenges being faced there. That's one reason we wanted to talk to her.

We think Americans are intrigued by Africa. I don't think you have to be African American to be intrigued. I think many of us are. It's a place of so much promise, opportunity, and yet most of the world's most demanding problems can be found there.

So, whenever we get the opportunity, we want the leaders...and, frankly, the people of the Continent to tell us more...

What I also found interesting was her take on women in leadership and how she sometimes feels restrained to huddle...or to sometimes raise a certain perspective when meeting with fellow international leaders -- almost always male. It comes, according to her, from not wanting to fulfill the stereotype that might be associated with being the "woman at the table."

I don't know about you, but as she was talking I'm sitting there thinking it's amazing that no matter how "high" you climb the ladder of success these sensitivities can still hop on and climb right on up the ladder with you.

How many times have you felt this way -- wherever you are on the ladder? (At its most common level, would you have ever imagined that you might have something in common with the president of a nation?) How have you managed being in a room...at a table...or in a position, where you don't always want to make as much noise as you could, just because you know that might be just what people are expecting?

Of course, you don't have to be a president, king, queen or royal ruler here...just everyday, ordinary citizens (like me).

Oh, and don't get it twisted President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is far from a backbone-less leader. She's a towering force and was just keeping it real (I really like that about her). When madame president speaks, people listen. I did...

Big developments in the immigration debate today. They're late breaking and complicated. We'll have more next week for sure.

Now, excuse me, I am going to get more cake. You can see there's only just a little left...

Michel Martin

7:20 PM ET | 05-17-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Special Alert.

This is what's left of Michel's birthday cake.

Lee Hill, NPR

Hey, people. Lee here. Slightly interrupting the blog to let you know that today there was special cause for celebration around here...

You see, someone at Tell Me More with _______ (hint, hint) had a birthday today. And this someone might have been just a little bit cranky earlier because maybe she thought her entire show family forgot (a no, no...for sure) that today is her day.

Well, that's all until she walked out of studio 4b and ta-da...we are all there shouting "Surprise!"...and "Gotcha."

While we know she might rather have been somewhere in St. Tropez being pampered, she was stuck with us...

But, after the cake (you see what's left of it), the great food and all the well-wishes from the folks here, I think she might agree that our party gave her lofty dreams a serious run for their money.

So, happy birthday Michel!

And now, back to our regularly scheduled blogging. Michel, take it away...

Lee Hill

5:52 PM ET | 05-17-2007 | permalink | comments (2) | e-mail post

Speedy Delivery...

Sorry, crashing here. Long day today. BIG interview coming tomorrow morning...a must-hear! Won't give away all the goods now, but I can tell you that you'll hear from a trailblazing head of government.

So, who's the major "get" for us? Find out tomorrow morning. You'll have to listen on your local public radio station, or log-on to our show's rundown page. Audio should be available there close to noon.

We'll tell you more in the A.M...

(In the meantime, you can tell us here what you thought of today's program.)

Michel Martin

7:54 PM ET | 05-16-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Not So Ordinary...

Yesterday we checked out the political scene in Philly. Today...LA. We finally landed an interview with L.A.'s mayor. It was our third attempt to have a conversation with him. Not griping. We were glad to talk with him. And, as mayor of a major city with big stuff on his plate -- he's had a lot of issues lately: wildfires, police controversy, etc. -- we know he's a very busy man. We talked with him about his efforts to diminish greenhouse gases. He was set to announce his big plan today...and since NPR has made a major commitment to covering the issue, we thought this could be one of our contributions. Plus, he's a rising star in the Democratic party, potential governor and subject of major New Yorker profile...you get the picture.

We want to hear from you on the Ordinary Oprahs concept. So, here's the thing...

When you think of Oprah, a few things probably come to mind -- successful, powerful, compassionate...RICH! She's a philanthropist and gets a lot of attention for that...and rightfully so. But we just know there must be people out there giving just as much heart to causes -- even though they may not have "Winfrey" resources -- who deserve to be highlighted as well. We have a feeling that the big "O" would agree with us here...

So, consider this a callout -- a chance for you to be not-so-modest about some of the things you do to help others...in your spare time...with your spare cash (if you have any after paying $4 for gas, but I digress). What are you giving a lot of heart to?...

Or, are there any "Ordinary Oprahs" or "Oprohs" (men) in your world? People under the radar (until we highlight them, of course) who've made a HUGE difference in your life...or community?

Talk to us. Tell us more...

Michel Martin

7:31 PM ET | 05-15-2007 | permalink | comments (1) | e-mail post

All Things Conflicted

Source: J_a_m_e_s

Tomorrow is primary day in Philadelphia. Five Democrats are running to take over City Hall, and since the city is so heavily Democratic it's assumed that the primary winner will get the job (one Republican will run in November). Two Congressmen, a businessman, a former City Councilmember and a state legislator are in the running.

So, now you're saying, "I don't live in Philly. Why should I care?"

It's not so much the players but the issues we were drawn to...especially an increase in murders that no one there can seem to explain. One candidate has a proposal to allow police to stop and frisk people to search for illegal weapons...it's been tried in other places, notably New York. Observers say you do get illegal guns off the street, but the question is, at what cost? So, now the question is in front of Philadelphia voters...what will they decide?

It all just screams tell me more...

Heard about the Ken Burns drama (literally)? The legendary documentarian has made a film about World War II. Some Latino activists complained because they believe it fails to acknowledge the Latino contributions and experience...he agrees to change it (somehow). Now, other people are upset that he conceded his original stance.
So, what now? Is there a line somewhere between political correctness and editorial correctness/advovcacy and artistic freedom? We discuss it (it was intense).

Your thoughts, please...

Black...and Mormon. Two words you don't see together very often. It's no secret that the Mormon Church didn't fully open its doors to African Americans until the late 70's. So when we found out, courtesy of our friends at the Washington Post Magazine, that the church is now making a determined effort to reach out -- to African Americans -- we had to know more (and in point of fact, we have seen the missionaries ourselves walking and biking our city streets. They are hard to miss in their distinctive garb -- white shirts, black pants, name tags. We sometimes wonder...Hmmm. What y'all doin?) We go deep with the author and a DC man who decided to join the church.

Ever been confronted with one of these? It's where "culture" says one thing, but maybe the inner spirit, or gut, says another.
What was your journey?

A safe place for difficult conversations...

Lastly (here on the blog, not the show), Down Syndrome. You might have noticed that we focused more on the parents than the child. We think there's another program to be done on that score. Of course, parenting never really ends. For most families, the role of the parent in the life of a child transitions dramatically after adolescence. Not always the case here. For parents of children with Down Syndrome, or really any developmental disability, that "empty nest" is sometimes delayed..or never happens at all. It's not talked about as much, but that's why we thought it was maybe time to go Behind Closed Doors and ask...what's that really like?

We'd be interested in knowing if you find yourself here. Or, if the shoe is on the other foot and you're an offspring taking care of a parent. Did you ever feel like maybe your own life's ambitions were being put on the back burner?

If you have thoughts about these or other sensitive conversations that you'd like to hear (or participate in) please, let us know...

Michel Martin

6:29 PM ET | 05-14-2007 | permalink | comments (4) | e-mail post

Wrapping It Up

Source: iStock

Am I the only one who is so glad it's Friday I can barely stand it?
Don't get me wrong, we love it...but we are ready for the weekend. That was not the royal "we" either (still thinking abut the Queen). Reporting for the group here.

Full show today. A little different. We're experimenting with lead stories that are important and illuminating but not necessarily at the top of everybody's news agenda.

...Like ballerinas. Didn't every girl want to be a ballerina at some point while growing up? There, I said it. Michel Martin really wanted to be a ballerina, but ended-up in news...

No, really. What did you think of the segment? I don't know how you heard it, but I heard a lot that sounded universal to me, even though we were talking about a particular situation -- that of the shortage of African American ballerinas. Still, it was so interesting to me to hear about what it takes -- mentally as well as physically -- to compete in that world.

Were you an aspiring artist? What would have persuaded you to pursue your vision -- or is it for the best that you hung up your tie shoes...or whatever?

Kristin Armstrong on life after Lance. A lot there.

What has your faith helped see you through?

And...the debut of Tell Me More's Barbershop. (Those of you who followed our journey through "Rough Cuts" know this is one of our signature segments)

What'd you think of it?
Ladies, how does it feel to eavesdrop (as if we don't do this all the time)?
Fellas, did the guys do the alpha-male conversation justice? If not, what are you and your boys talking about?

Special thanks to our staff member Jennifer for sharing her (and her mom's) story.

So, how will you mark this Mother's Day? I hope it's special for you. You deserve it.

See you Monday...

Michel Martin

5:21 PM ET | 05-11-2007 | permalink | comments (2) | e-mail post

HPV...And a Few Lighter Notes

I don't mind letting you know when I don't know something...I have to tell you, until I picked up a copy of Essence Magazine last fall I had never heard of HPV. HPV is the Human Papilloma Virus, it's the virus that causes cervical cancer. Apparently, most sexually active people get it at some point in their lives, and in most people it's completely harmless -- almost like a common cold (also a virus). But in some people, the virus causes cervical cancer.

Tamika Felder is a young woman who developed cervical cancer from HPV, at the age of 25. She wrote about it in Essence Magazine as part of her campaign to raise awareness about the need for regular pap smears (she hadn't had them, and by the time she did, it was too late). I first learned about HPV from reading Tamika's story, and she was kind enough to share it with us on one of our first podcasts, on Rough Cuts. We got an incredible response.

And then I started hearing about HPV all the time -- Merck has developed a new vaccine against the HPV and a number of states and the District of Columbia are debating whether to make the vaccine mandatory to protect young women against cervical cancer. This morning brought yet more news: two studies in the New England Journal of Medicine. One suggested a link between HPV and throat cancer. The other evaluated the effectiveness of the vaccine.

All that made today a good day to check in again on this story, so we invited Tamika back, along with Dr. Richard Schlegel, chair of the department of pathology at Georgetown (who also visited with us earlier at Rough Cuts to help us understand the situation with HPV and men) and Rebecca Rex, who belongs to an organization that opposes mandatory vaccination...It was a good discussion but there was more to say, so look for postings from Dr. Schlegel and Ms. Rex here on our blog.

What else? Had a great visit with NPR's Gwen Thompkins, who is on home leave for a few weeks from her assignment in Nairobi, a lovely audio "postcard" from a listener about her trip home to New Orleans.

...And, this cracked me up: a short lesson in Vegan baking from the Food Network's Warren Brown. Here in D.C., he's the owner of Cakelove and Love Cafe. He broke it down about how to bake without animal products (eggs, sour cream, butter). Did you know you can't even use honey? Because it comes from bees? I swear, I never occurred to me (and yes, I did take biology, thank you very much. I just -- well -- forgot alot of it).

Finally, we like to send you off with a smile on your face. So, Goombay Music.
Enjoy!

Heads up -- next week, we want to make another run at the Culture Coach conversation. We didn't have many responses to our query for intercultural dating dilemmas, so we'd like to ask again. Don't be shy. (Or maybe you all just so have yourselves together that you don't need us) Hey, at least humor us. Give us something more to talk about...

Michel Martin

7:32 PM ET | 05-10-2007 | permalink | comments (4) | e-mail post

To Live is to (Re)learn

Maryland Lt. Governor Anthony Brown with Michel Martin in NPR's studio 4B.

Wendy Johnson, NPR

I hope you liked the interview with Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown. We think it's part of our mission to keep you apprised of new voices and emerging leaders. We have a long list people we want you to meet (don't want to say who in case they aren't exactly clamoring to talk to us) but suffice to say, the list is long, international and quite diverse. So, on we go.

And of course, Dorothy Ford...love her and her story. I had seen Ms. Ford out and about, doing her community service thing, and I was so interested in how she made the transition from "wife-of" and "mother-of" to simply...living as herself.

How about you? Can you relate? Ever made the shift from public to private (doesn't have to be a national context, could be local...from school principal to homemaker, etc.)? What was that like?

As a final note -- the N Street moms who are celebrating Mother's Day without their kids. I thought you might be interested in how that story came about. I had actually visited N Street Village a couple of months ago because I was helping out with their annual dinner. It's a fairly well known local facility, located across the street from its founder, Luther Place Memorial Church. It was started back in the 70's, when services for the homeless, especially homeless women, were few. At that time, the homeless population was exploding, because, many believe, of the practice of de-institutionalizing the chronically mentally ill...I am told that some mornings, the minister, John Steinbruck, and his staff would find homeless women literally dumped on the steps of the church...sometimes badly beaten, nearly naked, often raped. The church began opening its doors; at first, all they could offer were mats on the floor. Now N Street is an award-winning complex offering treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, mental health services, medical care, and low income housing.

Anyway, when I was there, the woman bringing me around mentioned that one of the women I met was now strong enough to try to look for her "child," a child now long grown, who had been taken from her long ago when she was in the throes of her addiction. Pascale (my escort) mentioned that many of the women at N Street had lost their children. "Mother's Day here is terrible," she said. "It is the worst day of the year."

And that stayed with me. As a fairly new mother myself -- my children are toddlers -- I remember how hard it was to leave the house in the morning, just to go to work, when my maternity leave ended. I think I cried three times the first day, and was proud of myself when I got it down to once a day by the end of the first week. Some days it's still hard, no matter how much I like and need to work.

So I tried to imagine what it was like to not even know where your children are -- what they look like, how they're doing in school, and to not know, not because you had chosen to give them up, because you had decided it was best for them -- but because you were so deep in the throes of your own sickness it had to be decided for you.

I decided I couldn't imagine, so I had to ask.

Conventional wisdom calls for Mother's Day to be celebrated, but what does it mean for you?
Have your own life's decisions ever separated you from your children? Or your mom?
In the words of Cher (and I don't quote her often), ever wish you could "turn back time?"

Michel Martin

5:28 PM ET | 05- 9-2007 | permalink | comments (2) | e-mail post

Rights, Remembrance and...Mom

Should full voting rights be granted to residents of "D.C?" For those of us who live here (me, and the studio is based here) this issue hits close to home. But why does anybody else care? Well, it turns out that an increasing number of folks -- including many Republicans -- are seeing this as a civil rights issue, one that even affects the way the U.S. is viewed abroad.

Check out Washington Post writer Marc Fisher's take on this. He was on the program this morning.

Tell the truth...had you ever heard of the argument for DC voting rights before? What do you think of the idea for linking it with a seat for Utah?

And, check out the pieces on August Wilson's final production. Would I be departing from my stance of journalistic objectivity to say what a gift he was to American theater? His use of language; the way he brought history to life, the way he enobled the lives and struggles of "ordinary" men and women just trying to find their way -- extraordinary. I feel very privileged to have been able to speak with his widow, Constanza Romero, and his longtime collaborators (over the headphones of course -- they were all in New York, I was here). I hope you feel the same way after listening...

So, I ask you: how are you chronicling your life experiences?

And...Mother's Day. It's just around the corner (don't forget to send a card). So you know we had to get the Mocha Moms in the mix. If you're a mom, what mothering style has worked best for you -- protective, micro-parenting or take the training wheels off as soon as possible?

If you're not a parent, is there something you have come to appreciate about your mother's decisions about parenting? Or is there still something that sticks in your craw (tell me -- not her -- unless it would actually do some good. In which case, tell her, not me)?

We'll have more reflections on being a mother later on in the week...
(And not to worry, dads. When Father's Day rolls around, we'll have those too.)

Michel Martin

6:56 PM ET | 05- 8-2007 | permalink | comments (1) | e-mail post

Mixed Marriages + Mixed Cultures = Mixed Signals?

Source: iStock

We wanted to let you know that one of our culture coaches, Dr. Lubna Somjee, will be in the house on Wednesday's program. (For more about the idea of having a culture coach, see the entry posted during our pilot phase).

It's a topic we cribbed from our friends at East West magazine...How to meet the parents -- when the parents are from a different cultural background.

Here's where we want you to tell us more. (In case you're wondering how we got our name...)

Is your significant other someone from a different culture?
How was it when you first met the parental units? Was it fraught with anxiety? Did the encounter cause strain?
How did you resolve your differences...or were the differences irreconcilable? If so, which ones?
And is there anything you wish you had done differently?

If you're currently "in the thick of it" (seriously dating, engaged, etc.), we'd love to hear your questions/dilemmas about intercultural dating...especially when you are ready to take it to the next level.

Psychologist Dr. Lubna Somjee -- in the house on Wednesday -- will help us work it out.

Shoot us a line...

Michel Martin

6:20 PM ET | 05- 7-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

And on we go...

Hope you had a good weekend. For us it was a chance to exhale after a vigorous first week. Yesterday (Sunday), our team did a little bit of bonding -- and barbecuing -- at my place. We apologized to the spouses for working their loved ones to the bone (our fingers were crossed behind our backs)

...and on we go.

I thought our program today was solid. We had some early morning production turbulence -- we won't bore you with the details, but it involves a certain guest who kept getting cut off as we were kept trying to bring him into the conversation. Our fault. Pretty embarrassing...amazing what you don't know about the phone lines in your own control room until put to the test -- but it came together.

Our lead -- last week's clash at the MacArthur Park immigration rally in L.A. It's a developing story, and there's an ongoing investigation. We were able to bring you an eyewitness account -- a reporter from KPCC radio in Pasadena. I'm glad we were able to have Patricia Nazario on. It had to have been a frightening experience for her but I appreciated her composed, and detailed retelling...PLUS, two different former Los Angeles police chiefs -- Darryl Gates and Bernard Parks -- both gave their take. As the story unfolds, perhaps each will have more to say.

We didn't spend as much time on the Philadelphia homicide story as we would have liked, but it is also an ongoing story and I'm fairly sure (and sorry to say) that story is going to be with us for a while. There's been a lot written over the years about teens and violence: it can all come across like a bad movie. But how do you ignore it when a person per day is being a killed? This is Philly -- not Baghdad.

Isn't there anything that would make a difference? Can any of you speak to this?...

Have any of you ever been in that situation -- a teen with a gun and a beef? What made you put the gun down? Please, let us know.

Finally, we tried to leave you with a little hope and a smile. Rabbi Shmuley Boteach breaks it down on how to get more love in your family life.

Any interesting tips on how you achieve family harmony? Let us know.

Lastly for today, the royal visit. I'm so over it but not for the reasons you might think.

And on we go...

Michel Martin

5:52 PM ET | 05- 7-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Celebrate or Commemorate?

One week down...endless more to go. Our first week! Now, two quick days to exhale and then we're back in business for Monday...

As you know, this is the 400th anniversary of Jamestown. On which side of the fence do you fall in your personal remembrances -- celebration or more solemn commemoration?

And what about climate change? Does this issue resonate with you? Why or why not?

Today was the final installment of our series on hip-hop. We chose to focus on non-black participation in the genre, given that a significant portion of the music's consumers...aren't black! Do you think white members of the hip-hop community should, or even can, take responsibility for the direction of hip-hop music?

Let us know...

Michel Martin

2:42 PM ET | 05- 4-2007 | permalink | comments (5) | e-mail post

Tell Us More

Jam-packed program today. I hope you're starting to get a taste of what we're all about
(speaking of "taste" -- got a segment coming up for our "Next Big Thing" about...vegan baking -- can't wait!)

But as for today, we're curious about how your own experiences might connect to a couple of our stories...

The Earth Conservation Corps' -- has your concern for the environment ever conflicted with other pressing priorities? How do you resolve the conflict?

And Deborah Rodriguez and the Kabul beauty school -- Have you ever used one of your special talents in a completely different culture? How were you received?

We'd love to hear from you. Go ahead, join the conversation..

And, how about those Noisettes?...

Michel Martin

6:20 PM ET | 05- 3-2007 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Hip-Hop Drama

Brooke Bailey

Source: Brooke Bailey

Don Imus. Sorry. Had to go there. I know you've heard enough but...hold on...what about the part of the conversation focusing on hip hop's role in what Imus said? Oh no!...teeth gnashing and laptops slamming shut all over town! BUT...if you have problems with rap and/or hip hop (and yes, we know, they are different genres), OR if you have problems with the people who have problems with rap and/or hip hop...why NOT have the conversation?

So, we're asking, what's next for hip hop?

We kicked it off yesterday with MC Lyte...a pioneering rap star, and also one of the first breakout women rap artists.

Today -- let's go to the videotape -- what about the role of women in making hip hop what it is?...especially the models (and no, I won't use the term some use) who provide the "beautiful scenery" in so many music videos. What do they think about the whole scene? What indeed? So we talk to Brooke Bailey -- her latest work can be seen on Lil' Bootsie and Lil Webbie's "Wipe Me Down" -- about what SHE thinks about the way women are depicted in her line of work. She says she's able to separate it from who she actually is...Is this possible?

What do you think?

Plus, we talk to a former "video vixen" who has some issues with the whole situation -- Karrine Steffans -- whose memoir of her exploits in front of the camera and, I must say it, beneath the sheets was a book club favorite in some quarters.

I don't know about you, but I found the conversation fascinating, especially since we were also joined by an eminent thinker about the role of black women in society -- Dr.Johnetta Cole, outgoing president of Bennett College and former President of Spelman College -- two foremost institutions of higher learning for black women.

Check it out...

Maybe you're in a profession that requires you to explain that it's "fantasy" and not reality. We'd be interested in hearing from you...

And one more thing, the photo of Brooke -- we're not going to play you -- that's NOT the way it appears on her website. Let's just say there's more, but less, to the pic. You get what I'm saying.

Michel Martin

4:17 PM ET | 05- 2-2007 | permalink | comments (7) | e-mail post

Airborne

Nothing but food, folks and fun at the NPR launch celebration for Tell Me More.

Lee Hill, NPR

OK -- Day 2 -- we all made it in. Still running on adrenalin, I think.
Did I mention we had a lovely little party yesterday..in our studio? Perhaps I shouldn't admit this since drinks and food are normally strictly VERBOTEN anywhere near the equipment...but it was a special occasion. Thank you, NPR. (Thankfully they got the horrible kegger smell out of there by the time we arrived this morning. Nothing more disgusting at 6:30 am than the smell of an old party. Not that there was liquor or anything...)

So, for DAY 2, we have a nice potpourri for you. Dallas District Attorney Craig Watkins came on to tell us about his decision to allow some 400 cases to be reviewed post conviction to see if DNA testing might make a difference...not a typical decision for a prosecutor...we also started our series on hip hop today..with a chat with one of the leading ladies of Rap -- Mc Lyte (remember "RuffNeck"? or "Cappucino"?). Lyte was one of the few to speak about messed up attitudes toward women back in the day, so we wanted her take on where hip hop and rap are going in these days of post-Imus scrutiny. Look for additional segments in the next couple of days...here's a hint on one: on what other show are you going to hear the President of a leading women's college with a video dancer/model?

And, can I let you in on an internal debate we've been having? We thought the interview with DA Watkins was interesting in its own right but we know there's another side to the story. We have been pursuing a Colorado judge who questions whether the wrongful conviction issues is really that big of a deal...but he is on the bench everyday and we haven't been able to get him to sit still for an interview. So...we decided to go deep with one guest, knowing we're pursuing the other side, and knowing that I'm going to ask both sides the questions that need to be asked. Others would argue that you should hold off until you can hear both sides at once, but we think that means that in effect one side can veto the other...We're curious where you come out on this question...when you know it's a two-sided question, can you have a satisfying discussion with one side?

So, tell me more...

Michel Martin

4:28 PM ET | 05- 1-2007 | permalink | comments (8) | e-mail post