In this episode of Hot Spots with Kay Brown, we explore the intersection of faith, music, and activism with Reverend Ian Riddell of the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Desert. As the nation prepares for the "No Kings 3" protests, Riddell discusses his role as a leader in "Singing Resistance," a movement born in Minneapolis that uses communal singing to challenge authoritarianism and federal overreach.The conversation with Kay delves into the psychological and political power of nonviolent resistance, highlighting the "3.5% rule"—the theory that sustained participation from a small fraction of the population can topple regimes. Riddell explains how music builds a unique emotional connection that slogans cannot, providing healing and solidarity for those fighting for justice. From songs aimed at changing the hearts of ICE agents to the upcoming rally in Palm Springs, this episode serves as a call to action for anyone looking to protect civil liberties through the transformative power of collective voice.
Two candidates for California’s 47th Assembly District share their visions for working families, unions, and economic fairness. Jason Byors and Leila Namvar join Steve Matthews on Riverside Rank & File to discuss their personal journeys, deep ties to organized labor, and plans to address affordability, wages, and income inequality. Both candidates emphasize the importance of unions in strengthening the middle class and protecting workers’ rights. They also tackle major issues facing the district, including rising costs of living, access to healthcare, and the growing impact of automation and artificial intelligence on jobs. The conversation highlights their differing perspectives but shared commitment to representing Riverside County’s labor force. With a focus on rebuilding trust between workers and political leadership, this episode explores how policy, advocacy, and grassroots engagement can shape the future of working families in California’s Inland Empire. A must-listen for union members, workers, and engaged voters.
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Grassroots activism continues to shape the national conversation—and deliver real results. In this episode, Becki Sameroff Robinson returns with another “We Did That” segment on The Joy of Democracy with Joy Silver, highlighting how organized citizens, protests, and persistent civic engagement are influencing major legal and political outcomes across the country. From massive “No Kings” demonstrations involving millions of people to court rulings limiting federal troop deployment in cities like Portland and Chicago, the discussion explores how public pressure and legal advocacy intersect to defend civil rights. Robinson also explains how judges stepped in to protect journalists and protesters, prevent mass firings of federal workers during a shutdown, and delay cuts to SNAP food assistance that could impact millions of families. The conversation underscores a central theme: when people organize, call their representatives, and show up in the streets, they can hold power accountable. It’s a powerful reminder that civic participation remains one of the strongest tools in protecting democracy.
Janet Dagley warns California Democrats that the state’s top-two “jungle primary” could again produce a general election ballot with only Republicans, as happened in her state Senate district years ago. With nine Democrats and two Republicans running to succeed term-limited Gov. Gavin Newsom, GOP candidates Chad Bianco and Steve Hilton are polling first and second among Republicans (Hilton at 14%, Bianco at 12%), while the leading Democrats—Katie Porter (13%), Eric Swalwell (11%), and Tom Steyer (10%)—are fragmented alongside large “don’t know” and low-polling candidates. Dagley urges lesser-known Democrats to bow out quickly, consolidate support behind stronger contenders before the March 26 certified-candidate list and voter guide release, and avoid forcing Democrats to choose between two Republicans in November.
Radio Free Riverside delivers clear, fact-based reporting on the stories shaping Riverside County, California. Presented by Joy Silver on the United America Network, the show cuts through right-wing media spin to provide news listeners can trust—accurate, independent, and grounded in reality. Available on most major podcast platforms.
In this episode of Period Dot! with Sweetbaby J’ai, Sacha Boutros, a global jazz artist and peace-focused community builder joins the conversation to cut through the noise around immigration and identity. Drawing on her upbringing near the Tijuana–San Diego border, she recalls a time when crossing for family, food, and daily life felt effortless—until suspicion, delays, and division reshaped what “neighbor” meant. The discussion explores how artists witness history early and translate it into humanity the public can feel. She shares the creation of a border-site public art project—bench seating expanded for commuters and a footprint mural titled “A Place Where Soles Meet”—funded with community support to restore dignity where politics hardened lines. The episode also tackles women’s leadership in music production, navigating gatekeeping, and building your own stages when permission is denied. It closes with rapid-fire reflections on hope, jazz, and turning suffering into triumph.
This episode of Straight Outta RivCo with Anyse Smith & Francisco Ramos breaks down the sweeping impact of Proposition 50 and what it means for Riverside County’s political future. The hosts share their personal journeys as longtime county residents and activists, explaining why local politics matter far beyond city lines. The conversation explores how redistricting reshaped congressional boundaries, disrupted entrenched power, and created new competitive districts across the region. They unpack the implications for voter turnout, healthcare access, immigration enforcement, and accountability in Congress, while examining the ripple effects of national political decisions at the local level. The episode also highlights why down-ballot voting and community engagement are essential to turning structural change into real representation. With a focus on civic participation, transparency, and democratic values, this discussion frames Proposition 50 not as an end point, but as the opening chapter in a pivotal moment for Riverside County voters.
