Lemonade

If something has always been sour, can it ever be sweet? This week, Dr. Shaunna and Dr. Lisa dive into socio-political dynamics regarding being "closeted", handling the grief of today's. U.S. context, and the future of activism -- especially at graduation and commencement ceremonies.

Word of the Week [1:25]: Closeted: Pride Month in the U.S is well underway. Drawing inspiration from Rain Mendoza's feature narrative entitled, "Their Closet is Not Yours To Open", we look at the definition of "closeted" and highlight how society and institutions often mishandle the concept.

Phase 1 [6:09]: Hypernormalization: Ever had a feeling that the U.S. is broken, leadership is ineffective, and yet you have to carry on with your life as if all is well? There's a word for that! Dr. Shaunna defines hypernormalization, and also highlights how it may not be generalizable to all (or even MOST) American identity groups. 

Phase 2 [28:57]: Commencement Concerns: There has been a noticeable trend of people are being banned from their graduations or having their diplomas withheld due to their identity or speech. A gay student was prohibited from attending her graduation and another student spoke about the Israel-Hamas war in their commencement speech without prior approval. Dr. Lisa shares observations from this scary trend of responses by schools, colleges, and universities.

Mentioned in the show

The Closet is Not Yours to Open – Facebook Post

Systems are crumbling – but daily life continues. The dissonance is real – The Guardian

Student banned from graduation after coming out online, lawsuit says - MSN

Scott Pelley Warns Graduates About the Threats to American Democracy - NBC

‘I’m willing to do it again’: The students who could lose their diplomas due to pro-Palestinian activism on campus – The Independent

Graduates speak their minds. Universities freak out – The Washington Post

University at Buffalo Graduation Turns Chaotic as Police Chase Student Holding Baby Son Onstage – People Magazine

Scott Pelley Warns Graduates About the Threats to American Democracy – The New Republic