On the latest episode of The Next World podcast from Partners for Dignity & Rights, Mississippi organizers discuss their work to end state sanctioned violence in schools.

We explore the statistics behind the fight to end corporal punishment in Mississippi and the other 18 states where it is still legal, and how Mississippi organizers have made progress in this crucial fight for change.

This a fight for human rights, children’s rights, dignity, and respect. Whether it’s in schools, the workplace, or judicial systems, punishment is more readily and harshly given to people of color, especially on the bodies of Black boys and girls. From being used as a tool of domination and control on the plantation to a tool of correction in our schools, from whips to paddles to policies, we’ve taken the last lash!

Featuring:

Janice Harper, Mississippi Coalition to End Corporal Punishment
Kameisha Smith, Nollie Jenkins Family Center
Katie Coates, Cooperation Jackson
Moderated by Tafari Melisizwe, Dignity in Schools Campaign

You can find every episode of The Next World on our website, as well as on Apple Podcasts, Castbox, TuneIn, Spotify, Stitcher, Deezer, or Pocketcasts. You can also find the show by searching “The Next World Podcast” on all major podcast apps.