On February 21, 2024, Joy Reid was honored by the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference for her bestselling book, and for her role in the Ceasefire music video.

Here is the conversation between Joy, Reena Evers, the daughter of Medgar and Myrlie Evers, and Rev. Mark.

Medgar & Myrlie is available wherever books are sold.

Markos and Rev. Mark examine the apparent slippage in numbers for the Democratic coalition that previously secured Biden's presidency. Despite the Democrats efforts, the nation experienced a conservative shift, with Trump gaining unexpected traction among low-propensity voters in rural areas.One revelation from the election is the curious shift in high voter turnout benefiting Republicans—a departure from historical trends favoring Democrats. Dramatically, Trump has managed to win over a significant portion of economically marginalized voters, taking 28 of the 30 poorest states. Republicans now align more with lower socioeconomic demographics, traditionally the Democratic stronghold.

And what about the influence of societal and gender dynamics on Nov. 5? With women advancing in educational and professional spheres, young men appear increasingly alienated and radicalized—a phenomenon with global echoes. This gender shift may underlie some of the support for Trump, whose rhetoric seems to galvanize men feeling disenfranchised by women’s progress.

Despite significant slippage of Latino support for Democrats, Markos cautions against viewing the situation through a panicked lens. Instead, he emphasizes understanding the existing fractures and addressing them head-on.

Should Democrats reevaluate their approach to voters, focusing on practical policy alignment over ideological purity? Should Democrats not just educate and uplift marginalized groups, but, also ensure their political strategies resonate with a broader audience, including those feeling sidelined by economic or societal changes?

Markos and Rev. Mark also discuss the necessity of leaving Elon Musk’s X platform for the bluer skies of Blue Sky.

Markos and Rev. Mark examine turnout among key Democratic demographics, despite unprecedented enthusiasm and fundraising efforts, and specifically, why Latinos and white women, did not vote as expected. Markos shares insights into cultural aspects that might influence voting behaviors, particularly within the Latino community. Drawing parallels with his home country of El Salvador, he suggests how issues of safety and conservatism could sway voter attitudes, noting that Trump's promises of economic and cultural security resonate deeply with culturally conservative segments.

The discussion also raises questions about gender dynamics in presidential politics. The decline in support among certain demographics suggests underlying biases, posing the question of whether America is truly ready for a woman president.

What went wrong in the ground game that had been so promising? How can Democrats more effectively take credit for their accomplishments to clear through the fog of misinformation?

Despite the disappointment, Rev. Mark reaffirms his commitment to social justice, calling for continuous action and vigilance. He recounts the historical relationship between protest and progress, reminding us that staying vocal and visible is crucial to the advancement of democratic ideals.