Code Switch podcast
You may have heard of an NPR podcast called Code Switch. In the wake of protests against the murder of George Floyd last year, Code Switch became one of NPR’s most popular podcasts, and was named Apple Podcasts’ first-ever Show of the Year. I had heard about Code Switch long before 2020, but it was the events of last year that finally convinced me to add it to my listening lineup. I am so glad I did.
Hosted by journalists of color, Code Switch faces the topic of race head-on, exploring the ways in which race and racism touch every aspect of our lives and our society. While the subject can at times be heavy, the hosts approach these conversations with humor and empathy, making the podcast feel more like a meaningful discussion with friends.
September 15 through October 15 marks Hispanic Heritage Month (do you know why?), so with that in mind, I wanted to highlight Code Switch’s recent episode entitled “Who You Calling ‘Hispanic’?” In this episode, hosts Shereen Marisol Meraji and Gene Demby explore where the term “hispanic” originated and why so many people from Spanish-speaking countries and communities have a complex relationship with the word. You can listen to the episode on NPR’s website, Apple podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
~Vanessa Vanderzee
Corvallis SURJ 