Van Lathan discusses voting and civil rights on The Morning Hustle

Producer Van Lathan Jr. shared his perspectives on political engagement and civil rights during an appearance on The Morning Hustle. Lathan, a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, urged the Black community to view voting as a powerful negotiation tool rather than mere harm reduction.

He characterized the MAGA movement as “distinctly anti-black,” citing concerns regarding workplace pressures for Black women, educational impacts on Black children, and environmental protections in South Louisiana’s industrial corridor, known as Cancer Alley. Lathan also addressed his past televised disagreement with Kanye West and his differing worldview compared to Stephen A. Smith.

Additionally, Lathan discussed Ava DuVernay’s documentary, 14th, which explores the post-Civil War refounding of America and birthright citizenship. He concluded by warning against “fascistic tyranny,” referencing ICE raids in Chicago and threats of denaturalization.