Trey's Table

Trey's Table Episode 291: Cold Case

What would happen if a black politician did what Ron DeSantis is accused of doing?

The Controversial Show That Never Was What if the South won the Civil War? HBO almost answered that question—and the backlash was

North Carolina had a government board that decided who was ‘fit' to have kids. Guess who they targeted? Black women. Poor folks. Disabled people. From 1929–1974, 7,600+ people were forcibly sterilized. Many were girls under 18. The latest Trey's Table episode exposes how it happened—and why it still matters. Tap the link in bio.

Trey's Table Episode 287: Black Jesus Black Jesus, Ebony, and the Bold Vision of John H. Johnson In 1969, legendary publisher John H. Johnson made an audacious statement by featuring Black Jesus on the cover of Ebony magazine. This iconic moment wasn't just about faith—it was about representation, power, and redefining the image of divinity in Black America. On the latest episode of Trey's Table (Ep. 287), we dive into Johnson's fearless leadership and how Ebony shaped Black identity during a pivotal era. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts! #BlackHistory #EbonyMagazine #JohnHJohnson #TreysTable"

Let's talk about Ed Martin, Trump's nominee to be US Attorney for the District of Columbia.

Trey's Table Episode 284: Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology) Environmental Racism & the Fight for Justice in Lowndes County The struggle for environmental justice is deeply tied to systemic racism—and nowhere is that more evident than in Lowndes County, Alabama, where Black families have battled raw sewage backups for decades. In Episode 284 of Trey's Table, we dive into how: ✅ The Biden administration acknowledged environmental racism as a real crisis—taking action to hold Alabama accountable. ✅ The Trump DOJ has terminated a critical agreement meant to address this injustice, denying the very existence of environmental racism. ✅ Activists and residents are fighting back, demanding dignity and basic sanitation rights. This isn't just about policy—it's about Black lives, public health, and whether our government will protect its most vulnerable communities.

Trey's Table Episode 283: The Fugitive Slave Act of 2025 **EP. 283: When History Repeats – The Fugitive Slave Act & Trump's Immigration Crackdowns** The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 wasn't just a law—it was state-sanctioned terror. It denied Black people due process, incentivized neighbors to betray each other, and turned free states into hunting grounds. Sound familiar? Trump's immigration policies mirrored this playbook: - **Presumed guilt**: Like enslaved people in 1850, migrants under Trump were deported without fair hearings. - **Forced complicity**: ICE pressured local police to act as enforcers, just as the Fugitive Slave Act deputized Northern officials. - **Sanctuary resistance**: Then: abolitionists broke the law to hide fugitives. Now: cities shield immigrants from ICE. But here's the lesson: oppression sparks rebellion. Harriet Tubman rerouted the Underground Railroad to Canada. John Brown armed rebels. And today? Communities still fight back. Listen to Ep. 283 to unpack these chilling parallels. History isn't just the past—it's a warning. #TrevsTable #FugitiveSlaveAct #ImmigrationRights #BlackHistory

Trey's Table Episode 282: The Murder Of Ashley Henning Race, Justice, and the Troubling Case of Jordan Henning – A New Episode of Trey's Table In the latest episode of *Trey's Table*, we delve into a case that exposes deep fissures in America's criminal justice system—the killing of a Black woman by her white husband, a military veteran, and the shockingly lenient charge of manslaughter instead of murder. Jordan Henning, a white former serviceman, was accused of killing his Black wife, who also served in the military. Despite the severity of the crime, Henning was only convicted of manslaughter—a decision that raises urgent questions about race, privilege, and whether justice was truly served. In this episode, I explore: - The role of race in the trial's outcome– Would the charges have been different if the races were reversed? - **The intersection of military service and justice** – How does the system treat veterans differently, and how does that intersect with race? - The broader implications for Black women– Why are Black women so often failed by the legal system when they are victims of violence? This case is not just about one tragic death—it's about systemic patterns that allow some offenders to receive lighter consequences while others face the full weight of the law. **Listen now to this critical discussion on Trey's Table. Available on [Apple Podcasts](https://applepodcasts.com), [Spotify](https://spotify.com), or wherever you get your podcasts. What are your thoughts on this case? Do you believe race played a factor in the verdict? Join the conversation using #treystable and let's keep this discussion going.

From NAACP Secretary to Bond Girl: The Groundbreaking Story of Gloria Hendry" On the latest episode of Trey's Table I'm unpacking the incredible journey of Gloria Hendry a woman who went from typing legal briefs for the NAACP during the Civil Rights Movement to making history as the first Black Bond girl in Live and Let Die (1973). Why You Need to Know Her Story - Started her career as a legal secretary for the NAACP working on landmark civil rights cases - Became a Playboy model and blaxploitation icon in films like *Black Caesar* - Shattered glass ceilings as James Bond's first Black love interest a massive deal in 1973 The Censorship No One Talks About Her role was revolutionary, but not everyone was ready for it. When Live and Let Die screened in apartheid South Africa all her romantic scenes with Roger Moore were cut completely because the regime couldn't handle a Black woman and white man in love. ###

Trey's Table Episode 280: Erasure

Trey's Table Episode 269: The Lost Year **

Let's add some more songs to the playlist for Dr. King.

Why is the new Secretary of Housing and Urban Development allowing racial discrimination to go unpunished? https://nationalfairhousing.or...https://www.propublica.org/art...

Trey's Table Episode 274: The Legacy of Randall Robinson ###

Trey's Table Episode 273 At a time when African Americans are under attack it's important that we celebrate our allies and those who take a stand against racism. Rachel Cohen is one of those people.

Trey's Table Episode 272 We all know how important music was to the Civil Rights Movement. What songs should be on the Civil Rights Movement Playlist?

Trey's Table Episode 271 **Courageous Journalism and the Legacy of Jackie Robinson: A Discussion on *Trey's Table* Episode 271** Hey everyone, I'm Trey Smith, host and producer of *Trey's Table*, a podcast dedicated to exploring African-American history, politics, and culture. In our latest episode, **Episode 271**, we dive into a powerful story of courage, activism, and the enduring legacy of Jackie Robinson. This episode was inspired by the recent stand taken by **Mina Kimes**, an ESPN journalist who courageously criticized the Trump administration's removal of information about Jackie Robinson from a Department of Defense website. Kimes' actions remind us of the importance of speaking truth to power and preserving the stories of those who paved the way for justice and equality. In this episode, we explore: - **Mina Kimes' Bold Journalism**: How her criticism of the administration's actions serves as a modern example of courageous journalism. - **Jackie Robinson's Legacy**: Not just as a baseball legend, but as a civil rights icon whose impact extends far beyond the field. - **Branch Rickey's Courage**: The story of how Rickey, the Brooklyn Dodgers executive who signed Jackie Robinson, took a stand against racism in sports. - **The Power of Collaboration**: How Branch Rickey's niece, **Elizabeth Rickey**, and African-American journalist **Norman Robinson** worked together to stop the racist David Duke from becoming governor of Louisiana in the 1990s. These stories remind us that courage comes in many forms—whether it's a journalist speaking out, an executive breaking barriers, or everyday people joining forces to fight injustice. **Why This Matters** The removal of Jackie Robinson's story from a government website isn't just about erasing history—it's about erasing the lessons of courage, resilience, and unity that his life represents. By discussing these issues, we hope to inspire our listeners to reflect on the importance of preserving history and standing up for what's right. **Tune In to Episode 271** If you're passionate about history, social justice, or the power of storytelling, this episode is for you. Listen now to hear the full discussion and join the conversation about how we can continue to honor the legacy of Jackie Robinson and others who fought for equality. **Let's Keep the Conversation Going** What does courage mean to you? How can we ensure that stories like Jackie Robinson's are never forgotten? Share your thoughts in the comments or on social media using the hashtag **#TreysTablePodcast**. Thank you for supporting *Trey's Table* and for being part of a community that values history, justice, and culture. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help us reach even more listeners. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking episodes, and as always, pull up a seat at *Trey's Table*. — Trey Smith Host and Producer, *Trey's Table*

Sampling isn't a new concept—it's been around for decades. But its roots in hip-hop and R&B can be traced back to the 1970s and 1980s, when DJs and producers in New York City began experimenting with turntables and drum machines. One of the earliest examples of sampling comes from the legendary DJ Kool Herc, who's often credited as one of the founding fathers of hip-hop. Herc would isolate the *breakbeat*—the part of a song where the drums take center stage—and loop it to keep the party going. This technique laid the groundwork for what we now know as sampling. But it wasn't just about looping beats. Producers like Marley Marl, J Dilla, and later, Pete Rock and Dr. Dre, began taking snippets of vocals, horns, and basslines from soul, funk, and R&B records, and weaving them into entirely new compositions. Sampling became a way to pay homage to the past while creating something fresh and innovative. Of course, with innovation came controversy. As sampling grew in popularity, so did legal battles over copyright and ownership. Artists and record labels began suing producers for using their music without permission, leading to stricter laws and higher costs for clearing samples. But despite these challenges, sampling has remained a vital part of music production. Join me for this episode where we will explore the impact of DJ Kool Herc and some popular samples.

In this podcast episode, I discuss one of the more mysterious stories from the civil rights movement.

Celebrating the Legacy of the Morehouse Glee Club – Trey's Table, Episode 267

Trey's Table Episode 266: Diving With A Purpose **Trey Smith:** Hey, everyone! Welcome back to *Trey's Table*, the podcast where we dive deep into African-American history, politics, and culture. I'm your host, Trey Smith, and today we're talking about something truly extraordinary—an organization that's using the power of diving to uncover the hidden stories of the transatlantic slave trade. In this episode, we're exploring *Diving with a Purpose* (DWP), a remarkable program that trains divers to help locate and document sunken slave ships. These ships are more than just relics of the past—they're time capsules that hold the truth about one of the darkest chapters in human history. The Middle Passage (U.S. National Park Service)https://podcasts.apple.com/us/...

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**Trey's Table Episode 264: Who Is In Your Wallet?** In the latest episode of *Trey's Table*, we're diving into a story that exposes the intersection of corporate greed, systemic racism, and the failures of accountability in America's financial system. We're talking about the Trump administration's decision to drop a lawsuit against Capital One Bank—a lawsuit that accused the bank of defrauding billions of dollars from its customers, many of whom were Black and brown. This move by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is just the tip of the iceberg. Capital One has a troubling history of racial discrimination, including allegations of closing branches in Black neighborhoods while maintaining operations in predominantly white areas. These practices are a modern-day form of redlining, a systemic issue that continues to harm communities of color. In this episode, we explore: - How Capital One's actions reflect broader patterns of economic exploitation. - Why the CFPB's failure to hold corporations accountable is a betrayal of its mission. - What we can do to fight for economic justice and hold financial institutions accountable. This isn't just about one bank or one lawsuit—it's about the ongoing struggle for racial equity and economic freedom.

Trey's Table Episode 263:MAGA Turns on Justice Coney Barrett Racism, the MAGA Movement, and the Attacks on Justice Amy Coney Barrett In the latest episode of Trey's Table, we dive into a disturbing trend: the racist attacks on Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett by some of Donald Trump's most vocal supporters. Why? Because she dared to rule against the Trump administration in a recent Supreme Court case. These attacks reveal a deeper issue within the MAGA movement—its inability to root out racism among its ranks and the unwillingness of its leaders to hold these individuals accountable. What does this say about the movement's values? And how does this reflect on the broader political landscape? Join me as we explore the intersection of race, politics, and power in this critical moment. Tune in to Episode 263 of *Trey's Table* to unpack the implications of these attacks and what they mean for the future of American democracy.

Trey's Table Episode 262:

Trey's Table Episode 261: Racism and Trees

Trey's Table Episode 260: Incident

Trey's Table Episode 258: The Day Louis Armstrong Shocked America

Let's talk about the frosty relationship between Ron DeSantis and Byron Donalds.

Trey's Table Episode 257: Slave and Spy Episode 257: The Unsung Heroes of Espionage – James Armistead Lafayette and Jane Coggesshall On the latest episode of *Trey's Table*, we dive into the incredible and often overlooked stories of two African-American heroes who played pivotal roles in the fight for American independence: James Armistead Lafayette and Jane Coggesshall. These two individuals, though enslaved, used their courage, wit, and resourcefulness to change the course of history—and ultimately secured their freedom in the process. James Armistead Lafayette is perhaps one of the most famous African-American spies of the Revolutionary War. Enslaved at the time, he volunteered to serve the Continental Army and was placed under the command of General Marquis de Lafayette. Posing as a runaway slave, Armistead infiltrated British camps, gathering critical intelligence that helped secure the American victory at the Battle of Yorktown. His contributions were so significant that his freedom was later granted by the Virginia legislature—a rare and hard-earned reward for his bravery. Then there's Jane Coggesshall, a lesser-known but equally remarkable figure. Like Armistead, she was enslaved, but her espionage work for the Continental Army proved invaluable. Her story is one of resilience and ingenuity, as she navigated the dangers of spying while living under the oppressive system of slavery. Her efforts not only aided the American cause but also paved the way for her eventual emancipation. In this episode, we explore the lives of these two extraordinary individuals, their contributions to the Revolutionary War, and the broader implications of their stories within the context of African-American history. Their legacies remind us that the fight for freedom and justice has always been multifaceted, with Black Americans playing central roles in shaping the nation's history—even when their contributions have been erased or minimized. Tune in to Episode 257 of Trey's Table to hear the full story of James Armistead Lafayette and Jane Coggesshall. Their journeys are a testament to the power of courage, strategy, and the unyielding pursuit of freedom. Listen now and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show! Let's keep these stories alive and honor the legacies of those who paved the way.

According to the most recent data from the American Association of Law Schools (AALS), only about 2.1% of all law professors in the United States are Black women. To put that into perspective, Black women make up roughly 7% of the U.S. population, but their representation in the legal academy is staggeringly low. This lack of diversity has real consequences. When Black women are underrepresented in law schools, it means fewer role models for students of color, fewer voices challenging the status quo, and a narrower range of perspectives in legal scholarship. It also perpetuates a cycle where students of color may feel excluded from pursuing careers in academia, further limiting diversity in the field. But despite these challenges, there are Black women who are breaking barriers and making their mark in the legal academy. One of those women is Professor Phyllis Taite.https://law.ou.edu/faculty-and...

Trey's Table Episode 255: Race, Regulation, and Sex Work. Episode 255: Race, Racism, and the Regulation of Prostitution in *Empire of Purity* by Eva Payne** In this week's episode of *Trey's Table*, we dive into Eva Payne's thought-provoking book, *Empire of Purity*, which examines how race and racism have shaped U.S. policies surrounding the regulation of prostitution. This book offers a critical lens through which we can understand the intersections of race, gender, and power in American history. The Historical Context Prostitution in the United States has long been a site of moral, social, and political contention. However, as Payne reveals, the regulation of prostitution was not just about morality or public health—it was deeply intertwined with racial hierarchies and systemic racism. From the late 19th century onward, laws and policies targeting prostitution often disproportionately affected women of color, particularly Black and immigrant women. Payne's work highlights how these policies were framed as efforts to maintain "purity" and social order, but in reality, they reinforced racial stereotypes and perpetuated inequality. For example, Black women were often depicted as hypersexual and immoral, stereotypes that justified their over-policing and marginalization under these laws. Race and the Moral Panic One of the key themes in *Empire of Purity* is the role of moral panics in shaping public policy. Payne argues that fears about racial mixing and the perceived threat to white supremacy were central to the push for regulating prostitution. These fears were often couched in the language of public health and morality, but they served to control and criminalize communities of color. For instance, during the Progressive Era, anti-prostitution campaigns were often tied to broader efforts to "clean up" cities and enforce racial segregation. Black women, already vulnerable due to systemic racism and economic inequality, were disproportionately targeted by these campaigns. The Legacy of These Policies Payne's book also explores the long-term consequences of these racially biased policies. The criminalization of prostitution has had lasting impacts on communities of color, contributing to mass incarceration and the stigmatization of Black and Brown women. Even today, the echoes of these policies can be seen in the ways that sex work is policed and regulated. By uncovering this history, *Empire of Purity* challenges us to rethink how we understand the intersections of race, gender, and power in American society. It also raises important questions about how we can address the legacy of these policies and work toward a more just and equitable future. Why This Matters Understanding the racial dimensions of prostitution regulation is crucial for grappling with the broader history of systemic racism in the United States. Payne's work reminds us that policies are never neutral—they are shaped by the social and cultural contexts in which they arise. By examining these histories, we can better understand the roots of contemporary inequalities and work to dismantle them. --- Call to Action If you haven't already, be sure to listen to Episode 255 of *Trey's Table* for a deeper discussion of *Empire of Purity* and its implications. Let us know your thoughts on how race and racism have shaped U.S. policies—both historically and today. Share your insights in the comments or on social media using the hashtag #TreysTable.

Trey's Table Episode 254: A Beneficiary of DEI "Welcome back to *Trey's Table*, the podcast where we explore African American history, politics, and culture. I'm your host, Trey Smith, and today we're diving into a topic that's close to the heart of our nation's history and future: the state of diversity in farming in the United States, with a particular focus on African American farmers. Farming is the backbone of our society, yet the story of who owns and works the land is deeply intertwined with issues of race, equity, and justice. From the days of slavery to the present, African American farmers have played a crucial role in shaping American agriculture, but their journey has been marked by systemic challenges and resilience. In this episode, we'll explore the history of African American farmers, the obstacles they've faced, and the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable agricultural system. So, grab a seat at the table, and let's get into it.

Trey's Table Episode 253: Sun City **

Trey's Table Episode 252: The Battle of Tuskegee **Instagram/Threads Post:**

Trey's Table Episode 251: The Cobra Effect **Blog Post: Trey's Table Episode 251 – Eric Adams and the Trump Administration: A Tale of Extortion and Political Leverage** *By Trey Smith, Host and Producer of Trey's Table* In the latest episode of *Trey's Table* (Episode 251), we dive into one of the most explosive political dramas of our time: the extortion of New York City Mayor Eric Adams by the Trump administration. This story is not just about corruption—it's about power, leverage, and the erosion of justice in American politics. ### The Backstory: Eric Adams and the DOJ's Controversial Dismissal Mayor Eric Adams, once a rising star in Democratic politics, found himself at the center of a federal corruption case in September 2024. He was indicted on charges of bribery, wire fraud, and accepting illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals, particularly Turkish officials. The case was set to go to trial in April 2025, but everything changed when President Donald Trump's Justice Department stepped in. In February 2025, acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove ordered federal prosecutors to dismiss the case against Adams, citing the mayor's role in assisting the Trump administration's immigration crackdown as a reason. This move sparked a wave of resignations among prosecutors, who decried the decision as a blatant quid pro quo. ### The Quid Pro Quo: A Mayor Held Hostage The Trump administration's directive to drop the charges was not based on the strength of the evidence or legal merit but on Adams' willingness to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. This quid pro quo was laid bare when Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, publicly stated that Adams would face consequences if he didn't deliver on their agreement. In Episode 251, we explore how this arrangement has left Adams politically compromised. By aligning himself with Trump, Adams has alienated his base in New York City, where the mayor's approval ratings are already at historic lows. The episode also examines the broader implications of this deal for democracy and the rule of law. ### The Resignations: A Crisis of Conscience The fallout from the DOJ's decision was swift and dramatic. Seven federal prosecutors resigned in protest, refusing to carry out what they saw as a politically motivated dismissal. Among them was Danielle Sassoon, the acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, who penned a scathing resignation letter condemning the administration's actions. These resignations highlight the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by career public servants in an era of politicized justice. In the episode, we discuss how these events echo the “Saturday Night Massacre” of the Watergate era, raising questions about the integrity of the Justice Department under Trump. ### What's Next for Eric Adams? While Adams may have escaped prosecution for now, his political future remains uncertain. The case against him was dismissed “without prejudice,” meaning it could be revived after the 2025 mayoral election. This leaves Adams in a precarious position, beholden to the Trump administration and vulnerable to renewed charges if he steps out of line. In Episode 251, we also explore the potential long-term consequences for New York City. With Adams' leadership compromised, the city faces challenges in addressing critical issues like immigration, public safety, and housing. The episode features insights from political analysts, legal experts, and community leaders who weigh in on what this means for the future of New York. ### Join the Conversation This episode of *Trey's Table* is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of politics, justice, and African-American leadership. We unpack the complexities of the Adams-Trump saga and its implications for our democracy. Tune in to Episode 251 of *Trey's Table* on your favorite podcast platform, and let's keep the conversation going. Share your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #TreysTable and tag us @TrevsTable. Because when it comes to holding power accountable, silence is not an option. --- *Trey's Table* is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! #TreysTable #EricAdams #TrumpAdministration #PoliticalCorruption #AfricanAmericanHistory #Podcasthttps://youtu.be/mHrLx3jGH_c?s...

Trey's Table Episode 250: The Petition of “Ned” Griffin The Courage of Ned Griffin: A Revolutionary Fight for Freedom In the midst of the American Revolution, Ned Griffin, an enslaved man from North Carolina, made a bold choice: he agreed to fight in the war in exchange for his freedom. His enslaver, William Kitchen, promised him emancipation if he served as a substitute in the Continental Army. Ned fought bravely in battles like Guilford Courthouse, but when he returned, Kitchen betrayed him, selling him to another enslaver. Refusing to accept this injustice, Ned petitioned the North Carolina legislature in 1784. His petition detailed his service and the broken promise of freedom. The General Assembly listened, passing an act to emancipate him, declaring him “forever delivered and discharged from the yoke of slavery.” Ned's story is one of resilience and determination. After gaining his freedom, he lived as a free man of color, purchased land, and built a life for himself. His fight reminds us that the struggle for freedom and equality has deep roots in American history. Ned Griffin's legacy is a testament to the courage of those who dared to challenge the system and demand their rights. His story is not just history—it's inspiration. #NedGriffin #BlackHistory #RevolutionaryWar #FreedomFighters #AfricanAmericanHistory #TrevsTable