The Hon. Rev. Everett Mitchell opens this Black Oxygen conversation with a sobering analysis of our current constitutional crisis, where unchecked executive power and Christian nationalism intersect to manipulate communities. But the heart of this conversation centers on what it means to truly care for our neighbors.

Drawing from Dr. Howard Thurman's question, "What does the Bible have to say to people whose backs are against the wall?" Judge Mitchell shares powerful stories from Dane County Drug Court's 30-year history. He introduces the concept of "trauma translation"—listening through pain without judgment—and tells the story of Rodney, a participant who began celebrating everyone who showed up, teaching that "showing up is a part of what community care is."

Mitchell challenges us to expand our definition of neighbor and reveals how treating people with dignity transforms lives. This episode offers a masterclass in building neighborhood, finding hope in hard places, and understanding that authentic community care requires difficult work—but the promise is transformative.

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Resource:

Justice Point - https://justicepoint.org/