What Say U?

You can put new curtains on the windows, light a candle, and set the table real nice — but if the milk ain't clean, everything you pour it into is spoiled. Washington State made history when it funded the Charles Mitchell and George Washington Bush Reparations Study — only the fourth statewide reparations study in the nation. Our communities organized. WENA — the Washington Equity Now Alliance — raised nearly half a million dollars in supplemental funding from Pierce County, King County, and beyond. Close to a million dollars in total support. That's not government writing a check. That's everyday people putting their faith, their money, and their ancestors' names on the line. So when the Department of Commerce ran the procurement process to select who would do this sacred work — the community expected excellence. Transparency. Integrity. What they got was something else. In this episode, sisters Melannie and  Audrey connect with Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter — one of the nation's leading reparations scholars and one of the unsuccessful bidders for the study. Dr. Hunter is the Scott Waugh Endowed Chair at UCLA, author of Radical Reparations: Healing the Soul of a Nation (HarperCollins/Amistad), the visionary who coined #BlackLivesMatter, inaugural Chair of UCLA's African American Studies Department, two-term President of the Association of Black Sociologists, and the scholar who drafted Congresswoman Barbara Lee's historic Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation Commission bill. His work has been featured on C-SPAN's BookTV, MSNBC, BBC, NPR, the Washington Post, the New York Times, and the LA Times. He submitted a proposal for Washington's study. And then the system showed its hand. His proposal was quarantined in the state's email system as “malware” for 22 days while other bidders were being evaluated. When he was finally told he wasn't selected, the state denied him the debriefing that Washington law guarantees every unsuccessful bidder. Denied him twice. He had to retain an attorney just to access a process the law says is his right. Meanwhile, the winning bidder — a DEI consulting firm — was awarded the contract to do work that requires expertise in reparations research, historical accounting, intergenerational economic harm, genealogy, and public policy analysis. The community asked questions. Filed public records requests. And invited the winning firm on this very show. Their general counsel said they'd love to come. That was six weeks ago. Silence ever since. The milk ain't clean. This episode is not about who won or lost a contract. Dr. Hunter is not here as a sore loser — he's here as a witness. This is first-source, insider testimony about how the state administered a process that the community invested in, that the legislature authorized, and that our ancestors are owed. In this conversation you'll hear: Why one of the most qualified reparations scholars in the country answered Washington's call What happened to his proposal inside the Department of Commerce's system — documented, timestamped, on the record The legal fight for a debriefing the state tried to deny him — twice Why DEI consulting is not reparations research — and why that distinction matters for every person this study is supposed to serve What this process tells us about whether the state is truly ready for the work of repair What we demand from our government — and what we owe our ancestors Reparations are policy, process, and praxis. If the process ain't right, the outcome can't be trusted. And trust, once broken, has to be earned back in public. This one is for the record. For the archive. For Charles Mitchell and George Washington Bush. For Mother Viola Fletcher. For every descendant who is counting on this study to tell the truth. To Truclusion – the successful bidder: the invitation is still open. Come tell your story. Show yourself. This IS community. And community is waiting…please. What Say U? LINKS & REFERENCES Previous Episode-Listen for Context “When the System Shows Its Hand: Sacred Work, Shady Process” https://whatsayupodcast.com/when-the-system-shows-its-hand-sacred-work-shady-process/ About Our Guest Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter — marcusanthonyhunter.com Radical Reparations: Healing the Soul of a Nation — HarperCollins/Amistad (2024) UCLA Department of Sociology — soc.ucla.edu Dr. Hunter's Op-Ed in the AFRO: “When Equity is Performed, Not Practiced” When equity is performed, not practiced Washington Equity NOW Alliance https://waequitynow.org/ Washington State Reparations Study WA Dept. of Commerce — Reparative Study for Washington Descendants — https://www.commerce.wa.gov/community-initiatives/reparations-study/ Community Action Petition: Stand for Integrity & Justice in Washington's Reparations Process — https://www.thefactsnewspaper.com/post/stand-for-integrity-justice-in-washington-s-reparations-process-sign-the-petition More Context & Receipts Department of Commerce: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/community-initiatives/reparations-study/ Department of Commerce: https://www.commerce.wa.gov/reparations-study-update-january-2026/ Seattle Medium: “Community Questions Firm Named As Apparent Successful Bidder” https://seattlemedium.com/truclusion-consulting-firm-controversy/ Community Debate of the selection of Truclusion as apparent successful bidder: https://seattlemedium.com/reparations-legislation-community-concerns/ South Seattle Emerald: “Washington Will Spend $300K to Study Reparations” https://southseattleemerald.org/news/2025/06/07/washington-will-spend-300k-to-study-reparations-multiracial-solidarity-made-it-possible Attachment Department Commerce email naming Reparation Study scorers (.pdf)

This episode of What Say U? is a whole experience — rich, spirited, and full of that unmistakable energy that happens when three Black women sit down together with purpose. The Sisters welcome Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland for a conversation that is equal parts truth‑telling, celebration, and community care. It is a reminder that Black history is not just something we study — it's something we live, honor, and pass forward. Congresswoman Strickland introduces Melannie and Audrey to the Black History Month Essay Contest, an invitation for students in Washington State's 10th Congressional District to lift up the stories of Black Washingtonians — the veterans, educators, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders whose contributions shaped the region long before many people and systems were willing to acknowledge them. Throughout the episode, you'll hear: Why Congresswoman Strickland launched this contest at this moment How local Black history grounds students in pride, identity, and belonging Why storytelling is a tool of liberation How young people can use research, writing, and civic engagement to claim their voice What it means to protect our history when others are trying to erase it Links Information about the contest Support Channel 253

In this episode, the Sisters talk with Ria J Johnson-Covington of the Lakewood African American Police Accountability Committee (LAAPAC) about community safety, accountability, and building stronger relationships between Lakewood's African American community and the Lakewood Police Department. LAAPAC Meetings 2nd Wednesday • 3:00 PM Lakewood Police Station 9401 Lakewood Dr SW, Lakewood, WA 98499 Connect With LAAPAC Facebook: LAAPAC – Lakewood African American Police Advisory Committee A community-led group working to unify Lakewood residents and the police department. Related City Committees Public Safety Advisory Committee – Provides community input to the Lakewood City Council on public safety policies. Civil Service Commission – Oversees the hiring, promotion, and demotion of police officers under state law. Channel 253 Channel 253 membership

Okay family, pull up a chair because we need to talk. Washington State recently became the third state in America to fund a reparations study for African Americans, and it should be a moment to celebrate. The Legislature allocated $300,000 in seed funding, and the Washington Equity Now Alliance — a community-based organization doing the real work — raised another $450,000 to ensure this sacred study is done right. Governor Ferguson signed the law that spells out who’s qualified to lead the study: a PhD focused on reparations, peer-reviewed publications, expertise in calculating uncompensated slave labor, and lived experience. So far, so good, right? But here’s where it gets messy. The Department of Commerce is creating its own procurement rules, and its decisions are now preventing the community from securing qualified consultants for this work. Somehow, an “apparent successful bidder” has been named – a company called Truclusion that doesn’t appear to meet ANY of the legal requirements got through the procurement process — while the nation’s leading reparations scholar, an UCLA endowed chair and Howard University department head who literally wrote a BOOK on Reparations, was denied due process on a technicality when he asked for his legal right to a debriefing. How is the state this incompetent with something this important? Sisters Audrey and Melannie sit down with Attorney Jesse Wineberry Sr. — former five-term state legislator, first Black House Majority Whip in Washington’s history, and Chair of WENA — to break it down, shed light on the matter, and invite the community to take action. Somethin’ ought to be said. What say YOU? Links Washington Equity NOW Alliance Reparative Study for Washington Descendants – Washington State Department of Commerce Truclusion Website (Apparent Successful Bidder) Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter – Achievements Marcus Anthony Hunter – UCLA Sociology Review of City-Level Reparations across the United States (.PDF) Dept. of Commerce WENA Community Partner Designation (REPARATIONS STUDY) (.PDF) WASHINGTON REPARATIONS STUDY BUDGET (.PDF) Calls to Action Support Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter The Department of Commerce has denied Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter his legal right to a debrief in accordance with Washington State Law RCW 39.26.170(2). He now must incur legal costs to challenge this injustice. It's not about the “contract” anymore – it's about the “principle” of the matter and the blatant disrespect of “Black Excellence.” Please support Dr. Hunter in this fight. This work is SACRED and COLLECTIVE. Donate here File a public records request Department of Commerce – Public Records Request Office of the Governor – Public Records Request CUT & PASTE THIS TEXT INTO YOUR EMAIL PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST Pursuant to RCW 42.56, I request all records in any format—including emails, texts, memos, notes, meeting minutes, and other documents—related to COMMERCE RFP 26-33740-001 (Charles Mitchell and George Washington Bush Reparations Study), managed by Michelle Griffin, Department of Commerce: 1. Bidder Evaluation and Selection All proposals submitted in response to the RFP Individual and composite scores for all bidders Identities of all scorers/selection committee members Evaluation criteria and scoring rubrics Deliberations and comparative analyses All records supporting the selection of Truclusion as the apparent successful bidder All communication transmitting Dr. Hunter’s proposal to the scoring committee 2. Deadline Extension All communications and justifications regarding the November 10, 2025 decision to extend the contractor announcement deadline from November 5-10 to November 18, 2025, including the stated need for “additional time for scoring” 3. Delegation of Authority Any documents authorizing the Department of Commerce to delegate review and selection duties for this RFP to the Commission on African American Affairs 4. Conflict of Interest Documentation All signed conflict of interest disclosure forms and/or waivers executed by selection committee members CONTACT: DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE commercewa@govqa.us Natasha Langer Public Disclosure Specialist Operations Division Office Services 360-725-3156 THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE publicdisclosure@gov.wa.gov Tricia Smith Director of Public Information & Records 564-200-2106

Are you retired, laid off, or simply in transition? This episode is for YOU. The sisters dive into a dynamic and heartfelt conversation about creating a fulfilling life after work—on your terms. Discover how to embrace this new chapter with purpose, passion, and joy. From volunteering to lifelong learning, we explore ways to stay engaged, connected, and inspired. Highlights in this episode: How to redefine your identity beyond your career Practical ideas for seniors to stay active and purposeful Volunteering stories that show the power of giving back Lifelong learning and personal growth opportunities Opportunities for Seniors to Explore: Volunteering with animals: Sister Audrey shares her experience at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. Food justice & community support: Melannie volunteers with Northwest Harvest, helping fight hunger across Washington. Lifelong learning: Melannie is completing her PhD at Fielding Graduate University, proving it's never too late to chase your academic dreams. Suggestions for things to try: Join local senior centers for fitness, arts, and social clubs Mentor younger generations through schools or community programs Explore creative hobbies like painting, writing, or gardening Travel locally—day trips to parks, museums, or cultural events Take online courses in areas like history, technology, or languages Links Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County Fielding Graduate University Northwest Harvest Channel 253 membership

Guest: Marguerite Martin, Entrepreneur, Social Influencer, and alumna of the American Leadership Forum Tacoma/Pierce County Senior Fellows Program with Melannie In this honest and brave conversation, Melannie, Audrey, and Marguerite explore a moment from a...

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Sisters Audrey and Melannie reunite on the mic after being away for some time. They catch up on current events, specifically digging deep into the polarizing vibe around the national elections and impact on the minds of...

Sister Melannie, also known as Peace Queen, is solo on the mic as Sister Audrey continues her radical healing journey! Please send your prayers and good vibes! In this episode, Peace Queen delves into what...

Production Note: Sister Melannie is on the mic solo. Sister Audrey continues her healing journey. Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr., who is widely known as “Dr. Diversity” joins Melannie to unveil their exciting new collaboration at...

In a thought-provoking conversation, Melannie discusses the critical issue of Anti-Black racism and Anti-Blackness with author and truth-teller Dante King, alongside Rev. Brandy Renée McMurry from the Spiritual Care team at the University of California...

Dr. Karen Johnson, the first-ever Director of the Washington State Office of Equity, was abruptly terminated by Governor Jay Inslee on May 17, 2023. This decision caused a significant fallout, leaving huge numbers of individuals...

Sisters Audrey and Melannie joyfully return to the microphone after an extended absence. During their time away, significant events have unfolded in the world, as well as in their personal lives. This episode serves as...

In this episode, the sisters talk about Tyre Nichols and the sadly familiar circumstances of his murder. Links Channel 253 membership

Guest host Bishop Gwendolyn Phillips Coates joins Sister Melannie in conversation with Dr. Eddie Moore Jr. Dr. Moore is the founder of the White Privilege Conference and the White Privilege Institute. He joins the conversation...

Inspired by the 1972 song The World Is a Ghetto” recorded by the band War, Melannie and Audrey cover a variety of topics in their “keepin' it real” fashion relevant to their personal development and...

Sisters Audrey and Melannie unite on the microphone after several weeks away. They catch listeners up on what's been happening with them which leads to their emotional discussion about the “toll” Black people pay existing...

What will it take for America to unite on banning assault weapon purchases by individual citizens? The sisters share their perspectives; as always, keeping it real! Links Channel 253 membership

The Sisters chat with Christine Harrison, Melannie's White Woman friend who recently completed her doctoral research on White Women Teaching in majority-Black and Brown Classrooms. Christie shares the concept of her study and findings. In...

As more and more “everyday people” choose to opt-out of the racist system this country was built upon, the die-hard racists are showing their desperate ways. Join the sisters as they discuss examples of what...

The Sisters breakdown a broader term to describe the behavioral actions of whiteness – examples are explored. Links “Karen” Meltdown in Victoria's Secret updates about Breonna Taylor Channel 253 membership

Listen in as Melannie shares her experience from attending the 2022 National White Privilege Conference. The sisters discuss the various revelations that resulted. Links Channel 253 membership

This encore episode discusses the concept of Caucasity: the audacity of white people. Meaning, the willingness to take bold risks only white people feel safe doing. Join the Sisters as they provide recent examples of...

In this episode of What say U? the sisters talk “firsts” with Ben Kweku-ldun, owner of the Elmina Bay Resort in Ghana, West Africa; Melanie on location in Ghana and sister Audrey from her home...

This episode, the Sisters are joined by former Seattle Chief of Police Carmen Best to discuss her recent book “Black in Blue,” leadership as a woman of color, and policing. Links Black in Blue Channel...

In this special “encore,” we revisit Episode 4, Living While Black, where the sisters discuss situations where white people call the police on black people and offer recommendations on how the situation can be avoided....

Join the sisters in a refreshing conversation with Christine Schwyn Harrison, a white woman who is on an intentional journey living as an anti-racist. Links Channel 253 membership

Critical Race Theory (CRT) – what exactly does that mean? The sisters welcome Dr. Amy Young, Professor of Communication & Chair of the Department of Communication at Pacific Lutheran University, as she deconstructs what CRT...

The sister reflect on how soon we forget significant events such as police-related homicides and more.  (Recorded right before the twentieth anniversary of September 11.) Links Channel 253 membership

Sisters Audrey and Melannie unpack the characteristics of White Supremacy Culture and how it shows up in daily life. They share examples of recent experiences engaging with it and urban wisdom on how to navigate...

The sisters discuss how exercising one's “right” to not wear a mask or get the COVID vaccine directly correlates to the loss of privilege (and lives). Links Channel 253 membership  

The sisters tackle the question of “good white people” and how white can do right. Links Channel 253 membership

Sakara Remmu, Chief Strategist for the Washington Black Lives Matter Alliance, brings background, knowledge, intel and receipts on the Manuel Ellis murder conviction update AND Pierce County Sherrif, Ed Troyer's journey to accountability for his...

Sisters Melannie and Audrey are joined by 14-year-old Jalean, their granddaughter and great niece (respectively)! Girlfriend is spilling generation Z “tea” about what your teens may be thinking. Don't miss out on this truth-tellin' episode…...

In their unique style, listen in on the Sisters' journey with the COVID vaccine, C-suite commitment to anti-racism, police accountability and reform (nationally and locally) and their “living while black” perspective on other recent events....

Caucasity is the audacity of white people. Meaning, the willingness to take bold risks only white people feel safe doing. Join the Sisters as they provide recent examples of their lived experiences with caucasity in the workplace...

Black and brown people continue to be murdered by police across America. George Floyd is on trial for killing himself rather than Derrick Chauvin (the Minneapolis police officer who actually murdered him). The Sisters discuss...

Pierce County Sheriff, Ed Troyer is facing extreme pressure to resign after he claimed a Black newspaper delivery driver threatened his life. He later changed his story. The “receipts,” evidenced by the 911 recording and...

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Join the Sisters as they discuss the depth of “caucasity” that led to the INSURRECTION (the egregious attack on American democracy) at the nation’s capitol building. Links South Sound Anti-Racist Project Caucasity Urban Dictionary Definition...