Protests are raging in Minneapolis, Louisville and across the country as activists, family members and elected officials demand justice in the case of George Floyd, the black man who died at the hands of Minneapolis police earlier this week.
On this episode of River to River, host Ben Kieffer is joined by Iowa Rep. Ras Smith, a member of Iowa’s Legislative Black Caucus. Rep. Smith reflects on recent acts of police brutality across the country and legislation at the state level aimed at supporting and protecting the rights of people of color in Iowa.
Also in the hour, a look at other top headlines from the week including a statewide new coronavirus update and news from Storm Lake where more than 550 workers at a single Tyson meat processing plant, at least 22% of the workforce, have tested positive for COVID-19.
Guests include:
- Natalie Krebs, Iowa Public Radio health reporter
- State Rep. Ras Smith, Waterloo
- Vickie Brandenberg, owner and director of Lionheart Early Learning in Iowa City and North Liberty
- Tom Cullen, general assignment reporter, Storm Lake Times
- Kesho Scott, associate professor of American studies and sociology, Grinnell College
- Tony Dehner, Iowa Public Radio Studio One host
