Our Truth Our History Our Story: Our THS

We Voted: Now America Has a Chance to Repair

"I'm so Black, I'm blue. America is finally looking like America."

We voted. We made our voices heard. Now what?

In Episode 38 of Our Truth, Our History, Our Story, Rita Coburn reflects on the 2026 midterm elections, the lessons of Reconstruction, and the responsibility that comes after casting a ballot. As America prepares for the 120th Congress, she asks an important question: How do we turn the excitement of an election into lasting civic engagement and meaningful change?

In 1906, W.E.B. Du Bois declared, "First, we would vote," recognizing that the right to vote was fundamental to freedom, opportunity, and citizenship. But history reminds us that progress is never guaranteed.

Following emancipation in 1865, Reconstruction brought Black Americans into elected office, including two U.S. senators and 15 representatives. Yet the backlash that followed ushered in Jim Crow, disenfranchisement, racial violence, and economic exploitation.

In Black Reconstruction, Du Bois captured the tragedy of that reversal:

"The slave went free; stood a brief moment in the sun; then moved back again toward slavery."

Rita connects this history to the election of President Barack Obama in 2008 and the dramatic decline in voter participation during the 2010 midterms. The lesson is clear: Winning an election and understanding how to govern are two different things.

This episode explores why Congress matters, how legislation and public policy shape our lives, and why citizens must remain informed and involved between elections.

Rita also addresses the continuing need for accountability, the protection of civil rights, concerns surrounding immigration enforcement, and troubling deaths that deserve careful investigation and answers for families.

As we look toward 2027 and the 2028 presidential election, she encourages listeners to learn about their elected representatives, understand the issues, and participate in the work of democracy.

In this episode:

W.E.B. Du Bois, Reconstruction, and the historical struggle for voting rights

Lessons from the 2008 and 2010 elections

Understanding the responsibilities of the House, Senate, and congressional committees

Learning from organized policy agendas such as Project 2025

Preparing for the 120th Congress and the 2028 election

Voting rights, healthcare, housing, education, immigration, economic inequality, and environmental protection

Honoring veterans and reflecting on the importance of peace

"Let's be Black, white, blue, and ready."

FREE NOVEMBER SCREENINGS: W.E.B. DU BOIS: REBEL WITH A CAUSE

Join Rita Coburn for free screenings and conversations in Los Angeles and New York City this November. Come see the documentary, meet the filmmaker, and continue the conversation about history, citizenship, and our shared future.

Screening dates, locations, and RSVP information:
https://www.ritacoburn.com/screenings

WATCH, LISTEN & CONNECT

Watch Our THS on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@ritacoburn9240/podcasts

Visit Rita Coburn's website:
https://www.ritacoburn.com

Listen to the podcast here:
https://rss.alivepodcastnetwork.com/our-truth-our-history-our-story-our-ths

ABOUT OUR THS

Our Truth, Our History, Our Story is hosted by Peabody and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Rita Coburn. The podcast explores the people, events, and histories that shape our understanding of the past and our responsibility to the future.

Our Truth. Our History. Our Story. Because our history matters.