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KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

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Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting. Hosts Davey D and Anita Johnson give voice to issues ignored by the mainstream while planting seeds for social change.

Location:

United States

Description:

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting. Hosts Davey D and Anita Johnson give voice to issues ignored by the mainstream while planting seeds for social change.

Language:

English


Episodes
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U.S. Deportations to El Salvadors Mega-Prison PT. 2 and ABC’s of HBCU’s with Claudia Walker

4/3/2025
Over the past few months, deeply unsettling images have emerged showing men with shaved heads, shackled, and made to kneel”lined up in scenes disturbingly reminiscent of war prisons. These arent images from a foreign battlefield, but snapshots of whats happening in El Salvador. Even more disturbing? Many of those detained were picked up in the U.S. and deported without due process, dumped into a prison system designed to disappear people. To unpack the severity of this situation, Hard Knock Radio host Davey D sat down with long-time peacemaker and activist Alex Sanchez of Homies Unidos. Based in Los Angeles but rooted in the struggles of Central America, Sanchez has been raising alarms for decades about the dangerous intersection of immigration policy, criminal justice, and international politics. Later we speak with Claudia Walker, the author of The ABC’s of HBCU’s. The first ABC book dedicated to historically Black colleges and universities. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post U.S. Deportations to El Salvadors Mega-Prison PT. 2 and ABC’s of HBCU’s with Claudia Walker appeared first on KPFA.
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Hard Knock Radio – April 2, 2025

4/2/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – April 2, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.
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Butch Ware on Culture, Resistance & Building Power

4/1/2025
On Hard Knock Radio, Davey D spoke with Professor Butch Ware—hip hop artist, activist, and Green Party vice presidential candidate—about the deep links between culture, politics, and resistance. Ware opened the convo by emphasizing that music and hip hop aren’t just art—they’re tools for spiritual and political survival. Drawing on West African griot traditions, he called out what he terms an “epistemicide”—a systemic effort to erase Black and brown ways of knowing, from defunding arts to censoring DEI initiatives. He warned Californians not to get comfortable. Despite its progressive rep, the state is seeing ICE raids on campuses, university crackdowns on protests, and bipartisan support for repression. “This is a war on culture and resistance,” he said. Ware spoke on the power of student encampments, comparing them to past movements that helped end apartheid and the Vietnam War. What made them dangerous? They were organized, not just mobilized. He also broke down how both major parties have failed the people, especially the working class and youth. “We don’t just need votes—we need to build community power,” he said. His gubernatorial campaign blends mutual aid with electoral strategy, drawing on the legacy of the Black Panthers. Ware called on listeners to: Support mutual aid and direct action Get involved in organizing, not just elections Push back on both parties’ corporate agendas “There’s enough for everyone—we just need the will to redistribute power,” Ware said. “If we don’t fight back now, comfort won’t protect you later.” Follow Butch Ware at butchwareforgov.org or on Instagram for more. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Butch Ware on Culture, Resistance & Building Power appeared first on KPFA.
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Hard Knock Radio – March 31, 2025

3/31/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 31, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.
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Framed: The Case of Mumia Abu-Jamal and the System That Buried the Truth and Donald Lacy on Art, Gentrification, and the Power of Cultural Memory

3/28/2025
This week on Hard Knock Radio, Davey D sat down with Rachel Wolkenstein—longtime attorney and advocate for political prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal. Gearing up for the upcoming Freedom Tour, Rachel breaks down the real story behind Mumia’s 43-year incarceration: a case rooted in FBI surveillance, COINTELPRO tactics, corrupt Philadelphia cops, and a justice system built to protect itself. They talk about why the frame-up narrative has been sidelined, how key evidence was manufactured, and what the public can do to help push the needle toward Mumia’s release. It’s a powerful, eye-opening conversation that exposes the machinery of state repression—and the resilience of those who challenge it. Tap in. Share widely. Stay informed. Donald Lacy on Art, Gentrification, and the Power of Cultural Memory This week on Hard Knock Radio, Davey D sat down with longtime friend, artist, and truth-teller Donald Lacy—a man who wears many hats: playwright, actor, comedian, activist, and community voice. They discussed his new film The Masquerade, premiering April 1 at Oakland’s Grand Lake Theater, and his return to the stage with Campo Santo’s latest production at the Magic Theatre. Directed by the visionary Jocelyn Rose Lyons and executive produced by former 49er Vernon Davis, The Masquerade explores the deep impacts of gentrification and cultural loss in Black communities. But this conversation was more than just promotion—it was a deep dive into what it means to protect culture in a time of displacement, to honor our artistic ancestors, and to use theater and film as tools for liberation. Donald shared stories from the End Zone comedy days, the spiritual teachings of St. John Coltrane Church, and how method acting connects him to history in ways that are both personal and political. He said it best: “When progress and tradition collide, how do we hold on to the soul of our communities?” That’s the question at the heart of this episode. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Framed: The Case of Mumia Abu-Jamal and the System That Buried the Truth and Donald Lacy on Art, Gentrification, and the Power of Cultural Memory appeared first on KPFA.
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Community Demands Accountability for Early Release of Convicted Officer

3/27/2025
Host Davey D speaks with Freewheelin’ Frank Sterling, Marvin Hall, Jennifer Arboleda, Melvin Wilson, and Bella Quinto on the continued fight for justice in Contra Costa County. Antioch Under Scrutiny Hard Knock Radio traveled to Contra Costa County to spotlight the unrest brewing in Antioch and surrounding cities. Host Davey D opened the conversation by addressing the alarming police misconduct in the region, noting: “We’ve seen egregious killings by police… especially in Antioch and Pittsburg.” Recent revelations have sparked outrage. Officer Andrew Hall, who was convicted for the killings of Tyrell Wilson and Laudemer Arboleda, is being released early—well before completing even half of his sentence. Freewheelin’ Frank: “This is not acceptable.” Freewheelin’ Frank Sterling of KPFA, who has been closely tracking these cases, said: “We’re going to have this emergency rally… to say this is not acceptable.” Sterling shared that only one family was notified about Hall’s early release. There was no public notice, no press, and no mention of a parole hearing. “His name is not listed anywhere in the records,” added Bella Quinto, sister of Angelo Quinto. A rally was scheduled for Friday at 1 p.m. at the Martinez Sheriff’s Office (1980 Muir Road, Martinez, CA). Marvin Hall: “He will never be able to take another life behind a badge I respected.” Marvin Hall, a retired Orange County Sheriff’s deputy, lost his son Tyrell Wilson to Andrew Hall’s gunfire. “Tyrell was raised to respect officers. He was a Division One prospect.” Despite Marvin’s law enforcement background, he made it clear: “No, I don’t think it was enough time… But at least he will never take another life behind a badge I respected.” Jennifer Arboleda: “It’s completely devastating.” Jennifer Arboleda lost her brother Laudemer to the same officer. She expressed the pain her family continues to endure. “I’m still grieving… It’s just very hard.” Jennifer was shocked that it took a second killing for Officer Hall to be prosecuted. “Why did it take a second life for him to be prosecuted?” She also called for an end to systemic secrecy: “We need to end the cover-up… This sweeping under the rug has to stop.” Bella Quinto: “A mental health crisis should not be a death sentence.” Bella Quinto, sister of Angelo Quinto, stressed how her brother was in a mental health crisis when he was killed by police. “It should never be a death sentence.” She underscored the systemic failures that allowed Officer Hall to remain on the force after one fatal incident. “Sheriff Livingston failed to find that Hall broke any policy after the first killing, which allowed him to remain on the streets and kill again.” Bella also spoke to the troubling role of the Sheriff also serving as Coroner: “We need a separation between the Sheriff and the Coroner. There’s too much room for bias.” Frank Sterling: “There’s still some hope.” Despite the grim outlook, Sterling mentioned that the Department of Justice has committed to a five-year oversight agreement with the Antioch Police. “We’re holding out some hope… But Trump said he’d void all oversight deals. So we’ll see.” Sterling also shared disturbing new information. An officer under investigation had allegedly shown up armed at the department, threatening the police chief—and was not arrested. “That’s special treatment. And it’s happening at every level.” The Bigger Picture: A Backslide in Justice Davey D framed the broader political climate as hostile to justice. He pointed to pardons being pushed for officers involved in killings, cases being dropped by the Federal government, and the glorification of insurrectionists. “It’s like a bizarre world. We’re living in a time where truth and justice are being flipped on their heads.” Marvin Hall: “Good officers can’t speak out.” Marvin highlighted the pressure good officers face. “They want to speak out… but their livelihoods are at risk.” He added that a key witness against Hall only testified after retirement....
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Hard Knock Radio – March 26, 2025

3/26/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 26, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.
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Hard Knock Radio – March 25, 2025

3/25/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 25, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.
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Hard Knock Radio – March 24, 2025

3/24/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 24, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.
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San Francisco’s Rightward Shift: Mayor Lurie’s Law-and-Order Strategy Under Fire and Oakland’s History of Development and Disruption

3/21/2025
Policing the Crisis: Tim Redmond Breaks Down the City’s New Direction Budget Cuts, Housing Deficits, and the Cost of Cleaning Up the Streets In a recent Hard Knock Radio conversation, host Davey D spoke with journalist Tim Redmond of 48 Hills about major political and policy shifts in San Francisco under Mayor Daniel Lurie’s administration. The interview offered a comprehensive breakdown of how Lurie’s law enforcement–focused response to homelessness, addiction, and public safety is reshaping the city’s priorities—and raising serious concerns. A Surge in Arrests, but Few Solutions Mayor Lurie, along with a more conservative Board of Supervisors, has prioritized policing over social services. Redmond explained that arrests for drug use and dealing are up 700%, with users being jailed more frequently than dealers. Many end up in county jail without adequate medical care or addiction support, creating unsafe conditions for both inmates and deputies. San Francisco jails, once offering GED classes and rehabilitative programs, are now on lockdown due to a rise in violent incidents connected to untreated mental health and addiction issues. Lurie plans to open a new jail wing and expand shelter beds. But critics warn that the shelters are abstinence-only, lack flexibility, and don’t address the underlying need for permanent, affordable housing. Police Overtime and Budget Priorities Redmond noted a troubling financial trend: every city department faces a 15% budget cut—except the police. The SFPD is ramping up overtime, with some officers reportedly earning up to $500,000 a year. The number of active-duty officers remains low, despite the department listing over 1,800 positions. The city has struggled to recruit new officers, and the mayor’s plan leans heavily on extended shifts rather than sustainable staffing. “The city has an $800 million budget deficit,” Redmond said. “But taxing the rich isn’t even on the table.” Homelessness and Harm Reduction: Shifting Approaches San Francisco’s long-standing outreach programs are being restructured to include police presence, a move that undermines harm reduction strategies. Redmond shared stories from advocates like Vitka Eisen, who emphasized the importance of voluntary treatment over coercion. Congregate shelters, limited treatment beds, and punitive drug policies raise questions about the administration’s end goals. As Davey D pointed out, it echoes the “clean-up” strategy once used in Manhattan—where problems weren’t solved, just pushed out of sight. Tourism Down, Progressives Pushed Back Tourism has yet to bounce back post-pandemic. Hotel occupancy is around 60%, down from pre-COVID numbers. Redmond attributed this in part to a national narrative portraying San Francisco as unsafe. While Mayor Lurie has tried to shift that image, real economic impacts linger. On the political side, progressives maintain some presence on the Board of Supervisors but face increasing pressure. The recent firing of Max Carter-Oberstone from the Police Commission, despite his track record for pushing reform, signals a tougher stance on accountability. Even progressive supervisors are occasionally aligning with the mayor. Later, we bring you a story of urban planning and how race has shaped American cities. In a new book, Hella Town: Oakland’s History of Development and Disruption, Author Mitchell Schwarzer explores the origins and the lasting impacts of transportation improvements, systemic racism, and regional competition on Oakland’s built environment. Schwarzer, an architectural and urban historian, pulls from his experience as a city planner, and educator to tell the story of a city divided. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post San Francisco’s Rightward Shift: Mayor Lurie’s Law-and-Order Strategy Under Fire and Oakland’s History of Development and...
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In Conversation with Dr. Rosa Clemente about Education, Fascism, and Resistance

3/20/2025
In a crucial discussion, Hard Knock Radio host Davey D interviews Dr. Rosa Clemente, a journalist, political activist, and former vice-presidential candidate. They discuss the rising threats to education, civil rights, and the broader implications of political shifts in the U.S. The Attack on Education and Civil Rights Dr. Rosa Clemente warns that an executive order could soon dismantle the Department of Education. Many people don’t realize that this decision affects Pell Grants, special education programs, and student loans. Clemente emphasizes that the attack on education is not just about curriculum but a broader effort to suppress marginalized communities. She compares these actions to fascist regimes, stating that the first targets are always teachers and artists. Universities are now afraid to address equity, diversity, and inclusion (DEI), fearing backlash. Erasing History and Targeting Professors Clemente highlights how history is being erased at an alarming rate. Universities are under investigation for what the government calls “anti-Semitic discrimination”, yet there is little mention of Islamophobia or discrimination against other marginalized groups. She notes that the most attacked fields include Black Studies, Chicano Studies, Native American Studies, and LGBTQ+ Studies. At the same time, tenure protections are under threat in 11 states, leaving professors vulnerable to political pressure. The Rise of Anti-Intellectualism Davey D points out how anti-intellectualism has systematically devalued education. He connects this to figures like Kanye West, who famously dismissed reading, and media outlets that downplay research by labeling it as “woke.” Clemente agrees, referencing Lupe Fiasco’s song “Dumb It Down,” which critiques how society discourages critical thinking. She argues that discrediting intellectuals makes it easier to manipulate public opinion and justify extreme policies. Economic and Social Devastation Beyond education, Clemente outlines a wider economic attack, including: Mass job cuts in the federal government – Over 400,000 people have been laid off, disproportionately affecting Black and Brown workers. Veterans Administration layoffs – The government plans to cut 80,000 jobs, worsening care for veterans. Social Security restrictions – Elderly and disabled citizens must now physically visit offices to prove their identity, even as these offices shut down. The ripple effect will devastate small businesses, as federal workers and service users disappear from local economies. The Need for Local Organizing Clemente stresses that national movements have failed, pointing to the shortcomings of Black Lives Matter’s national organization. Instead, she calls for local organizing, mutual aid, and cooperative economics. She highlights efforts by Cooperation Jackson, which is pushing for a general strike on October 14th to protest economic injustice. The Role of Divide-and-Conquer Tactics Davey D warns that division weakens movements. He criticizes how different communities—Black, Brown, LGBTQ+, and feminist groups—have been isolated and turned against each other. Meanwhile, right-wing groups, evangelicals, and extremists have united under a common cause. Clemente agrees, arguing that the Democratic Party has failed to stand up. She believes corporate Democrats have cut a deal, allowing far-right policies to advance while sidelining progressive voices. Segregation and the Return of Jim Crow Policies Clemente reveals that federal contracts no longer explicitly ban segregated facilities, signaling a return to Jim Crow-era policies. Davey D warns that this is a direct response to DEI programs. Safe spaces once created for marginalized students are now being weaponized to justify white-only spaces under the guise of “fairness.” Final Thoughts and Call to Action Clemente urges people to: Strengthen local communities through cooperative economics and mutual aid. Educate themselves and push back against the erasure...
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Hard Knock Radio – March 19, 2025

3/19/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 19, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

Duration:00:59:58

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Hard Knock Radio – March 18, 2025

3/18/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 18, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

Duration:00:59:59

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Hard Knock Radio – March 17, 2025

3/17/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 17, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.
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The Privatization of Policing in Oakland: In Conversation with Cat Brooks and A Look at America’s War on Disenfranchised Communities with Poor News Magazine

3/14/2025
In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with Cat Brooks of the Anti Police Terror Project (APTP) to discuss a controversial development: Northeastern University’s proposal to establish a private police force to patrol East Oakland. The conversation unpacked the implications of privatized policing, accountability concerns, and the broader issue of public safety in the city. Northeastern University’s Private Police Proposal Formerly known as Mills College, Northeastern University’s Oakland campus is attempting to implement a private police force that would extend its jurisdiction beyond the campus, patrolling surrounding East Oakland neighborhoods. This plan, according to Brooks, was devised without consulting local residents, raising concerns about transparency and community representation. Brooks highlighted that the initiative was spearheaded by Clay Burch, a former Oakland Police Department (OPD) officer known for overseeing the violent Wood Street encampment eviction. Alongside two non-resident proponents, Burch worked with Northeastern to push the plan forward. The Larger Issue: Privatization of Law Enforcement Davey D and Brooks connected this proposal to a troubling trend—the privatization of policing. Historical precedents include Apple’s private police task force, which had full police powers and arrested a suspect in Emeryville, and the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), which once operated a law enforcement-like entity to combat bootlegging. These instances underscore a growing concern: Who holds private police accountable, and to whom do they report? Northeastern’s proposed force would not be under Oakland’s jurisdiction, meaning any misconduct—including excessive force or civil rights violations—would lack local oversight. If lawsuits arise, Oakland taxpayers, not Northeastern University, could bear the financial burden. Oversaturation of Law Enforcement in Oakland Brooks dismantled the argument that adding more police improves public safety. Oakland already has seven different law enforcement agencies operating within its borders, including OPD, California Highway Patrol (CHP), Alameda County Sheriff’s Department, BART Police, East Bay Regional Parks Police, and federal agencies like ICE and the FBI. Despite this heavy police presence, Oakland remains on the list of the most dangerous cities in the U.S. each year. Brooks argued that increasing law enforcement has not resolved crime issues and instead exacerbates racial profiling, police brutality, and community terror. A Call for Investment in Community Needs Rather than more police, East Oakland residents have expressed a need for improved infrastructure, such as repairing hazardous roads like MacArthur Boulevard, reducing traffic accidents, and addressing transit safety concerns. A recent survey showed that safety concerns in the community stem more from systemic neglect than from a lack of policing. Brooks urged city officials and Northeastern University to redirect the proposed $20 million police budget toward these pressing community needs, emphasizing that investing in the well-being of Oakland residents would yield far greater safety benefits than expanding law enforcement. Implications for the Future The privatization of police could set a dangerous precedent. If Northeastern is successful, other corporations and universities may follow suit, further fragmenting law enforcement accountability and creating de facto enclaves of corporate-controlled policing. Davey D pointed out that if this initiative gains traction, it could inspire national adoption, particularly under a federal administration supportive of increased law enforcement presence in urban areas. The conversation concluded with a warning: this is not just an Oakland issue, but a glimpse into the potential future of law enforcement across the country. What Can Be Done? APTP is mobilizing against the proposal, calling for: Increased public awareness and...
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Build and Fight Lecture Part 2: Mutual Aid & Economic Resistance

3/13/2025
Presented by Kali Akuno (Cooperation Jackson) & Thandi Chimurenga The Build and Fight lecture delves into the structural crisis of capitalism, the necessity of mutual aid, and the push toward economic self-determination. Akuno frames the discussion around Antonio Gramsci’s concept that “the old world is dying, the new world struggles to be born, now is the time of monsters.” He argues that capitalism is failing to sustain itself and that alternatives must be built from the ground up. Key Themes & Arguments Crisis of Capitalism & Wealth Disparity The capitalist system is unable to reproduce itself at profitable rates. The economy is split into “real” (goods & services) and “fictitious” (financial speculation) sectors, leading to artificial wealth like Elon Musk’s fortune. The working class bears the brunt of this crisis while wealth accumulates in digital assets controlled by a few. Mutual Aid as a Building Block Mutual aid is a necessary response to systemic failures. It is distinct from charity—rather than hierarchical giving, it fosters reciprocal support and community-driven solutions. Examples from Hurricane Katrina illustrate how mutual aid emerged as an alternative to state neglect. The goal is to transition from reliance on the capitalist system to a self-sustaining network. Reclaiming Production & Distribution Communities must take control of food, housing, healthcare, and essential goods. Urban farming, cooperative land ownership, and decommodification of land are key strategies. Direct community-led production can eliminate the need for money-exchange-based systems. Tech Sovereignty & Open Source Solutions Surveillance capitalism must be challenged by building independent tech infrastructure. Open-source platforms should replace corporate-controlled social and economic digital systems. Political Strategy & Economic Resistance The decline of mass political parties means decentralized collectives must take the lead. Economic self-determination requires creating alternative systems outside of capitalism. The Really Really Free Market model demonstrates how communities can facilitate direct resource-sharing without monetary exchange. Defending What We Build Systems of mutual aid and cooperative ownership must be defended from capitalist and state forces seeking to undermine them. Self-defense structures and organized community governance are necessary. Conclusion The Build and Fight framework argues for creating alternative economic structures that challenge capitalist dependency. Mutual aid is not just about survival—it is a tool for economic transformation and self-determination. By coordinating collective action, reclaiming production, and fostering tech sovereignty, communities can begin dismantling oppressive systems and building sustainable alternatives. This lecture is a powerful call to action for communities to reclaim control over resources and redefine economic relationships through solidarity and collective action. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Build and Fight Lecture Part 2: Mutual Aid & Economic Resistance appeared first on KPFA.
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Build and Fight Lecture Part 2: Mutual Aid & Economic Resistance

3/12/2025
Presented by Kali Akuno (Cooperation Jackson) & Thandi Chimurenga The Build and Fight lecture delves into the structural crisis of capitalism, the necessity of mutual aid, and the push toward economic self-determination. Akuno frames the discussion around Antonio Gramscis concept that the old world is dying, the new world struggles to be born, now is the time of monsters. He argues that capitalism is failing to sustain itself and that alternatives must be built from the ground up. Key Themes & Arguments Crisis of Capitalism & Wealth Disparity The capitalist system is unable to reproduce itself at profitable rates. The economy is split into real (goods & services) and fictitious (financial speculation) sectors, leading to artificial wealth like Elon Musks fortune. The working class bears the brunt of this crisis while wealth accumulates in digital assets controlled by a few. Mutual Aid as a Building Block Mutual aid is a necessary response to systemic failures. It is distinct from charity”rather than hierarchical giving, it fosters reciprocal support and community-driven solutions. Examples from Hurricane Katrina illustrate how mutual aid emerged as an alternative to state neglect. The goal is to transition from reliance on the capitalist system to a self-sustaining network. Reclaiming Production & Distribution Communities must take control of food, housing, healthcare, and essential goods. Urban farming, cooperative land ownership, and decommodification of land are key strategies. Direct community-led production can eliminate the need for money-exchange-based systems. Tech Sovereignty & Open Source Solutions Surveillance capitalism must be challenged by building independent tech infrastructure. Open-source platforms should replace corporate-controlled social and economic digital systems. Political Strategy & Economic Resistance The decline of mass political parties means decentralized collectives must take the lead. Economic self-determination requires creating alternative systems outside of capitalism. The Really Really Free Market model demonstrates how communities can facilitate direct resource-sharing without monetary exchange. Defending What We Build Systems of mutual aid and cooperative ownership must be defended from capitalist and state forces seeking to undermine them. Self-defense structures and organized community governance are necessary. Conclusion The Build and Fight framework argues for creating alternative economic structures that challenge capitalist dependency. Mutual aid is not just about survival”it is a tool for economic transformation and self-determination. By coordinating collective action, reclaiming production, and fostering tech sovereignty, communities can begin dismantling oppressive systems and building sustainable alternatives. This lecture is a powerful call to action for communities to reclaim control over resources and redefine economic relationships through solidarity and collective action. Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Build and Fight Lecture Part 2: Mutual Aid & Economic Resistance appeared first on KPFA.
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Hard Knock Radio – March 11, 2025

3/11/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 11, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.
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Hard Knock Radio – March 10, 2025

3/10/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 10, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.
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Hard Knock Radio – March 7, 2025

3/7/2025
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson. The post Hard Knock Radio – March 7, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.