Dr. Theotis Robinson Jr.: A Republic, If You Can Keep It

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Gloria sits down with longtime friend and civil rights pioneer Dr. Theotis Robinson Jr. for a conversation spanning six decades of Tennessee history. Dr. Robinson shares what it was like growing up in segregated Knoxville, his fight to become the first Black undergraduate admitted to the University of Tennessee in 1961, his groundbreaking election to Knoxville City Council in 1969, and his forceful rebuttal to today's political attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The conversation closes on a hopeful, action-oriented note about voter turnout ahead of the 2026 election. Early voting happens October 14-29 and Election Day is November 3rd. Make a plan to vote.