New Orleans Jazz, Activist Documentary Premier, Local Elections

Air Date:
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The Midwest premier of a documentary about actress and activist Ruby Dee will debut in Wisconsin this week. The film’s director tells us the story of Dee’s life, work, and commitment to change. We also learn about New Orleans jazz music to celebrate Fat Tuesday. Plus, many local municipalities are holding primary elections today, but the majority of voters won’t participate. We talk to a political scientist about civic engagement on a local level.

Featured in this Show

  • Documentary Of Legendary Actors/Activists Has Midwest Debut In Wisconsin

    A new documentary making its Midwest premier in Wisconsin shares life lessons from legendary actress and civil rights advocate Ruby Dee. Her grandson, the documentary’s director, tells her story.

  • Richard Davis

    We talk to the music professor and legendary bass player about jazz in New Orleans and what drew him to the instrument.

  • Why Don't People Vote In Local Primaries?

    Local elections are probably the most direct form of participatory democracy, yet turnout for local elections — especially primaries — is very low. We talk to a political scientist about this trend, and we turn the question to our listeners: Did you vote today?

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Veronica Rueckert Host
  • Muta'Ali Muhammad Guest
  • Richard Davis Guest
  • Mordecai Lee Guest
  • Karl Christenson Producer
  • Cynthia Schuster Producer

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