Award-winning journalist Ali Velshi discusses the state of journalism and the country. He discusses his book ‘Small Acts of Coverage.’
There are few cable or broadcast hosts and journalists who I listen to or learn from at face value based on the trust they have earned with their reporting. Ali Velshi makes that list that fits on one hand.
Ali Velshi: Small Acts of Courage
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Ali Velshi, an award-winning journalist. He is the host of “Velshi,” a Chief Correspondent for MSNBC, and a weekly economics contributor to NPR’s “Here And Now.” He also hosts the “Velshi Banned Book Club” on MSNBC and the “Velshi Banned Book Club” podcast.
He recently sat down with Egberto Willies on “Politics Done Right” to discuss his new book, “Small Acts of Courage: A Legacy of Endurance and the Fight for Democracy.” Velshi, known for his incisive reporting on global events and economic issues, shared his perspectives on journalism, democracy, and the transformative power of active citizenship.
Velshi’s career spans significant global events, including the U.S. presidential elections, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the war in Ukraine, the Syrian refugee crisis, and the Iran nuclear deal. His ability to provide in-depth analysis and context sets him apart in a media landscape dominated by sound bites and sensationalism. His dedication to truth and democracy is evident in his reporting and new book.
Velshi’s book taps into 125 years of family history to advocate for social justice as a living, breathing experience―a way of life more than an ideology. With rich detail and vivid prose, he relates the stories of regular people who made a lasting commitment to fight for change, even when success seemed impossible. This heartfelt exploration of how we can breathe new life into the principles of pluralistic democracy is an urgent call to action―for progress to be possible, we must all do whatever we can to make a difference.
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In “Small Acts of Courage,” Velshi recounts a profound moment when he was shot by the police during a peaceful protest over the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. This experience was a turning point for Velshi, awakening him to the deeper responsibilities of citizenship. As he explains, being a citizen is about enjoying rights and actively engaging in the democratic process to ensure justice and equality for all.
Velshi’s family history of activism, including relatives who fought against apartheid in South Africa, underscores his commitment to democracy. His grandfather was one of Gandhi’s youngest students, and his uncle was imprisoned for resisting apartheid. These familial ties to activism highlight the ongoing struggle for democracy and justice, a fight Velshi believes is far from over in the United States.
The interview also delved into the challenges of modern journalism. Velshi discussed the tension between being an observer and an active participant in the stories he covers. He emphasized the importance of being on the ground, witnessing events firsthand, and holding power to account. Velshi’s experience in Minneapolis illustrated journalists’ critical role in documenting and exposing the truth, especially when state forces attempt to silence dissent.
The stories in Velshi’s book are tantamount to calls to action for all citizens to recognize their role in preserving democracy. He argues that democracy is not a static state but a living, breathing entity that requires constant vigilance and participation. Velshi stresses that every citizen has the power to effect change, even if the results are not immediately visible. His message is clear: democracy must be nurtured and protected by everyone, not just journalists or politicians.
The conversation also touched on the need for journalists to provide context and challenge misinformation. Velshi criticized the traditional journalistic approach of presenting opposing viewpoints without context, which can lead to false equivalence. Instead, he advocates for a more responsible form of journalism that prioritizes truth and integrity.
Velshi’s reflections on his career and experiences highlight journalism’s importance in a functioning democracy. His book, “Small Acts of Courage,” serves as a memoir and a manifesto for those who believe in the power of informed active citizenship. It is a timely reminder that the fight for democracy is ongoing and that every individual’s actions, no matter how small, can contribute to a more just and equitable society.
In the face of rising authoritarianism and threats to democratic institutions, Velshi’s message is urgent and inspiring. He calls on all citizens to engage in the democratic process, hold power to account, and never underestimate their actions’ impact. His interview with Egberto Willies on “Politics Done Right” is a testament to his dedication to these principles and his belief in the transformative power of small acts of courage.
Velshi’s insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone interested in journalism, democracy, and social justice. His commitment to truth and his unwavering belief in the power of active citizenship make him a vital voice in today’s media landscape. “Small Acts of Courage” is not just a book; it is a call to action for all who believe in the promise of democracy and the necessity of continuous, active engagement in its preservation.
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