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The Second Draft Project

The Second Draft Project

By: Dr. Allissa V. Richardson and Prof. Jameela Hammond
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“Journalism is the first rough draft of history,” Philip L. Graham once said. Graham was the legendary president and publisher of the Washington Post, and believed that strong news media bolsters our democracy. What if, however, journalism’s first draft was flawed? What happens when journalists get things wrong? What happens when bias seeps into news coverage? What should journalism owe the people when it falls short? This podcast proposes a way forward: The Second Draft Project. The Second Draft Project is brought to you by the University of Southern California’s first Black media studies research center, The Charlotta Bass Journalism and Justice Lab. Founded by Dr. Allissa V. Richardson in 2022, the center is dedicated to saving, studying and sharing the work of prominent and hidden figures who have been central to Black social justice movements in America. The Lab’s namesake, Charlotta Bass, was the first Black woman to own and operate a newspaper on the West Coast. She was also a nominee for the US Vice Presidency in 1952. In her spirit, the Second Draft Project revisits Black news stories that were misreported due to incomplete or false narratives, to center Black storytellers — just as Bass would have done.

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Episodes
  • The Marathon Lives Through Us
    Dec 17 2024

    Nipsey Hussle wasn’t just a rapper; he was a symbol of hope, resilience, and empowerment for a community. In this episode, we explore how his legacy lives on through the voices of those closest to him, his family, friends, and fans, who continue to carry his vision forward. Through interviews with his collaborators, family, and fans, we hear how they’re continuing Nipsey’s work and vision through projects like Marathon Burger, Marathon Rooftop, dispensaries led by his brother Blacc Sam, and Lauren London’s Puma collection. We also reflect on the tragic day of his murder and the outpouring of love and tributes that followed before breaking down key criticisms of how the media reported on his death. Join us as we dive into Nipsey’s lasting, both on and off the stage, and reflect on the life of a man whose influence continues to ripple through the world today.


    Key Points From This Episode:

    • Nipsey Hussle’s impact as an artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.
    • Reactions to Nipsey’s death, his funeral, and how he was grieved.
    • How his legacy is being honored and preserved in Los Angeles.
    • Nipsey’s spirit of entrepreneurship and how it has inspired others.
    • How his family, fans, and friends have kept his vision alive.
    • Reflections on the documentary Behind the Crime: The Nipsey Hussle Murder.
    • Key criticism of how the media reported on Nipsey’s death.
    • Testimonials of Nipsey’s profound commitment to community empowerment.


    Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

    The Marathon Clothing

    Marathon Burger

    Marathon Rooftop Bookings

    Marathon Rooftop on Instagram
    Lauren London's Puma collection
    Behind the Crime: The Nipsey Hussle Murder
    Vector 90 on Instagram
    Second Draft Project

    Annie Bang on LinkedIn

    J’nai Knox on LinkedIn

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    17 mins
  • Neighborhood Nip
    Dec 17 2024

    What does it mean to leave a legacy? In this episode, we explore the profound impact Nipsey Hussle had on South Los Angeles and beyond. A rapper, entrepreneur, and community leader, Nipsey shattered stereotypes, uniting his neighborhood through education, empowerment, and cultural celebration. Our conversation dives into his Eritrean roots and the pride he instilled in the diaspora, with moving insights from those who felt his influence, from South Los Angeles to Aurora, Colorado. We discuss Nipsey’s upliftment initiatives, like Vector90 for youth development and entrepreneurship, and how his unwavering commitment to his community inspired others to give back. After his tragic death, his legacy catalyzed unprecedented peace talks among LA gangs, underscoring the depth of his influence. From murals in LA to values carried forward by young advocates, Nipsey’s story is a testament to resilience and community-first leadership. Join us as we uncover how "Neighborhood Nip" continues to inspire people worldwide, proving the marathon truly does continue.


    Key Points From This Episode:

    • Visual tributes to Nipsey’s activism for his South Los Angeles community.
    • The impact he had on immigrant communities in Aurora, Colorado
    • Nipsey’s significant influence as a prominent Eritrean artist.
    • How he invested in youth development through programs like Vector90.
    • Ways that he invested in his city, including Destination Crenshaw.
    • Reactions to Nipsey’s death, from his South LA community to Aurora, Colorado.
    • Key misconceptions people have about the South LA community.
    • How Nipsey contributed to peacebuilding in his community.
    • A devastating loss: the impact of losing a male figure, like Nipsey, in the organizing space.
    • How Nipsey’s dedication to his heritage and community has inspired others.


    Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

    Vector90 on Instagram

    Destination Crenshaw

    Second Draft Project

    Katelyn Do on LinkedIn

    Zorah Archie-Winston on LinkedIn

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    29 mins
  • Hustle and Heart: The Life of Ermias Asghedom
    Dec 4 2024

    This podcast episode delves into the personal life of Ermias Asghedom, the man behind the music. It explores intimate stories about Nipsey’s character, values, and his roles as a son, father, brother, and partner. The episode also celebrates his deep relationship with actress Lauren London, reflecting on how their love story impacted not only their lives but also the communities they inspired and uplifted.

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    17 mins

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