Behind the Bastards: It Could Happen Here Weekly 181 – Detailed Summary

Release Date: May 10, 2025

Hosts: Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts

Introduction

In this episode of Behind the Bastards, titled “It Could Happen Here Weekly 181,” the hosts delve into critical discussions surrounding media representation, particularly focusing on immigration and the often-overlooked perspectives of indigenous communities. Additionally, the episode sheds light on the significant challenges faced by trans journalists in garnering recognition and financial stability within the media landscape.

Media Coverage of Immigration and Indigenous Perspectives

Analyzing AP’s Reporting on the Darien Gap

At [02:34], Host 3, James, introduces a poignant critique of media coverage concerning immigration, highlighting a recent Associated Press (AP) article about the Darien Gap. James points out that the AP failed to mention the Embera people, an indigenous group directly affected by migration routes through the region. Instead, the report ambiguously referred to the area using the term "Comarca indigenous lands," misleading readers into believing it was a proper noun equivalent to a state or administrative division in Panama.

Impact of Waiving Environmental Laws on Indigenous Lands

James emphasizes the consequences of the Trump administration’s decision to waive several environmental laws to expedite border wall construction. This waiver allows for the rapid deployment of physical barriers without conducting necessary archaeological surveys, leading to significant cultural and environmental damage. He underscores that such policies ignore the rich histories and lives of indigenous communities, as seen with the Kumeyaay and Tornadam peoples whose sacred sites and natural habitats are being irreparably harmed.

“The omission of indigenous perspectives is something that we saw again when Christine Noem decided to waive a number of laws in order to facilitate faster construction of the border wall.” ([08:34])

Consequences for Indigenous Communities

The episode details how border wall construction has devastated sacred sites, such as Monument Hill and Kitobakito Springs, crucial to the heritage of Native American tribes like the Kumeyaay. Under the Biden administration, despite initial promises to halt further construction, financial cuts led to the failure of preservation efforts, resulting in the death of transplanted saguaros and disrupted drainage systems that undermine the wall's stability.

“Sometimes they just went ahead and built Wall Street. When they build the wall, it comes in about 50-foot sections and they truck those out there…” ([08:34])

The Broader Issue of Media Representation

Erasure of Indigenous People in U.S. Border Reporting

James critiques the broader trend in U.S. media where indigenous populations receive minimal to no representation in immigration narratives. This lack of visibility perpetuates ignorance about the deep-rooted presence and contributions of indigenous communities to border regions, thereby facilitating policies that disregard their rights and livelihoods.

“The problem here isn't just the ongoing erasure of indigenous people. It's a failure in basic journalistic practice in my mind.”—James ([22:34])

Consequences of Media Oversight

By not acknowledging indigenous communities, media outlets fail to provide comprehensive coverage of the complexities surrounding immigration and border policies. This oversight leads to a lack of accountability and public awareness, enabling detrimental policies to persist unchallenged.

Challenges Faced by Trans Journalists

Struggles in Recognition and Financial Stability

Transitioning from immigration to media representation, the episode highlights the unique hurdles confronting trans journalists. Hosts discuss how trans journalists often have their work appropriated by mainstream media without proper attribution, leading to diminished recognition and financial instability.

“Our publications... have been allowed to exist because of our cooperative efforts, but still, we face immense financial hardships.”—Host 3, James ([27:29])

Media Appropriation and Lack of Credit

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around instances where major media outlets republish stories initially reported by trans journalists without giving due credit. This practice not only undermines the original reporters’ efforts but also exacerbates their economic vulnerabilities.

“They will go out of their way to carve you out of a story that exists because of you.”—Garrison Davis ([25:00])

Call to Support Trans Journalists

The hosts passionately advocate for listeners to support trans journalists through subscriptions and donations to cooperative media organizations. They emphasize that financial support is crucial for the survival and success of independent trans-led journalism.

“It is a win-win for all trans people that we're paying people who need this money to survive, but they're also creating really important news coverage.”—Host 1, Mia Wong ([27:29])

Conclusion

“It Could Happen Here Weekly 181” serves as a compelling exploration of the intersection between media representation and marginalized communities. By addressing both the systemic issues in reporting on indigenous peoples in immigration contexts and the pressing challenges faced by trans journalists, the episode underscores the necessity for more inclusive and equitable media practices. The hosts conclude with a strong call to action, urging listeners to support trans journalists as a means to foster a more just and truthful media landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• “The problem here isn't just the ongoing erasure of indigenous people. It's a failure in basic journalistic practice in my mind.” — James, [22:34]

• “They will go out of their way to carve you out of a story that exists because of you.” — Garrison Davis, [25:00]

• “It is a win-win for all trans people that we're paying people who need this money to survive, but they're also creating really important news coverage.” — Mia Wong, [27:29]

Support and Further Information:

Listeners are encouraged to support trans journalists by subscribing to and donating to cooperative media organizations mentioned in the episode, such as Campside Media and iHeart Podcasts. For more information, visit coolzonemedia.com or reach out directly via encrypted channels provided by the hosts.