In this milestone 100th episode of the Glass City Humanist, we welcome Toledo activist Sean Nestor for an in-depth discussion on activism within our community. Sean shares his journey from high school political engagement sparked by the looming Iraq War to his current role in revitalizing local media and promoting civic involvement. We delve into the nuances of Toledo's political climate, discussing whether it truly aligns with progressive ideals or if there's a disconnect between grassroots sentiment and political leadership.
Sean emphasizes the importance of recognizing the people-centered aspect of activism. He reflects on past experiences where he faced opposition but chose to persist, ultimately shaping his commitment to civic engagement. As we discuss the resurrection of the Toledo Free Press, Sean recounts the strategic moves that led the project from simple archival efforts to a functioning newspaper, highlighting the collaborative nature of activism. His passion for citizen initiatives shines through as he explains how empowering the local populace can lead to meaningful legislative changes.
We discuss Toledo's perception as a progressive city. While some elected officials perceive it as conservative, Sean challenges this viewpoint, suggesting that many grassroots movements reflect a more progressive populace eager for representation. Sean articulates the disconnect between political leaders and the electorate, drawing attention to significant issues like the decriminalization of marijuana, which received overwhelming support from voters despite political pushback. This discrepancy underscores the need for politicians to be more attuned to their constituents.
Our engaging conversation serves as a call to action for listeners, encouraging them to reflect on their roles within their communities and the broader implications of their activism. Join us as we celebrate 100 episodes of fostering humanism and community engagement, and be inspired by Sean's unwavering commitment to creating a more just and compassionate society.
01:00 Marking 100 Episodes and commitment for more
14:19 Why Activism Matters: It's the People, Not the Process
54:53 Resurrecting the Toledo Free Press
Full Show Notes and Links Used