The American Now: Recent Episodes
Nadia Bashir
The American Now explores stories about the American experience as well as social justice issues and criminal justice reform. Views expressed are independent of any other news organization or entity. All rights reserved.
Hear from Ohio protesters 24-hours after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the landmark 1973 decision, Roe v. Wade.
For nearly 50 years, Roe and its subsequent lineage governed abortion rights in America. On June 24, 2022, SCOTUS overturned Roe with its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. The decision came several weeks after a draft of Dobbs leaked to the public foreshadowing the overturning of Roe. In some states, access to abortions ended almost overnight as a consequence of reversing Roe. Many fear the Dobbs decision is only the first step in the reversal of a slew of civil rights that could also impact the LGBTQIA community.
If you are struggling with your mental health and need help, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24-hours a day and can be reached toll-free at 1-800-273-8255.
What happens when children are charged as adults in the criminal legal system? This episode examines the lifelong consequences on juveniles placed in an adult system. Advocate Eddie Ellis shares his journey of being sentenced to adult prison at 16-years-old and why he believes reforms are necessary. Marcy Mistrett, Executive Director of Youth Justice at The Sentencing Project, also shares her perspective on the harmful impacts of charging juveniles as adults.