This August, as we embrace the “Back to School” season of Continued Learning & Growth, I welcome two incredible young journalists, Ahna Fleeming and Libby Hobbs, for a conversation rooted in truth-telling, identity, and resilience.
After a painful racial slur was used toward me during a public process in my own town, I was searching for connection and healing. Around the same time, I read Ahna’s powerful New York Times article about a similar experience of being targeted by the very same word. When I reached out to her, she introduced me to her friend Libby, whose journey as a transracially adopted person born in China resonated deeply with both of our experiences.
Together, we explore:
How family, race, and adoption shape identity
Navigating racial harassment and finding our voices
The role of journalism in truth-telling and social change
The urgency of honest conversations in today’s climate
This episode is a reminder that our hardest moments can also be invitations to keep learning, keep growing, and keep finding ways to belong.
Referenced Articles:
Ahna Fleeming’s New York Times piece: "The Generations of Pain I Felt in One Racist Moment"
Steve Ahlquist’s reporting on my experience: "A Racial Slur Exposes the Deep Divisions in Westerly"
Connect with our Guests:
Ahna Fleeming
Instagram: @ahnafleming
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ahna-fleming
Libby Hobbs
Instagram: @libbyxhobbs
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethxhobbs
Follow & Connect with April:
Website: www.juneinapril.com
Social: @juneinapril (all platforms)
YouTube: @AprilDinwoodie