In this episode, hosts Danica and Giselline introduce JusticeFest, the annual showcase of student-led projects that address everything from racial justice to mental health and educational equity. You’ll hear how this powerful event has fueled change in Louisville and beyond, including projects like the Justice Express Bus and Future Ancestors. Through personal stories and student interviews, we explore how JusticeFest empowers young people to lead, innovate, and advocate for their communities — and what it means when that support is at risk.

Collaborators: Danica G, Giselline P, Cameron L, Ellie M, Kennedy M, David S, Jordyn S, Viet P, Addison L, Hser Htte S, Stephanie N, Daniel M,

Today, 13 Firsts hosts Emilia and Evelyn dive deep into the effect banned books have on a state level through data and sitting down with local Manual staff, students from around the city, and citywide librarians.

Collaborators: Evelyn, Stephanie, Aunetra, Emilia, Cameron, Katie, Addison, and Viet.

In this episode of 13 Firsts, Evelyn and Emilia dive into the ways students utilize social media and how these decisions affect them. Hear them uncover if social media is always the one to blame for its “effects”, or if people are drawn in by more than meets the eye. We talked to three students and University of Louisville professor Dr. Danovitch about their experiences using social media, the things they see on it, screen time, and answers as to why we resort to social media for a venting outlet.

Collaborators: Viet P, Maddie L, Giselline P.D, David S, Noah M, Maggie S, Ava S, Hser Htte S, Evelyn Z, Emilia G, Jeremy Y, Katelynn S.

In the 13 Firsts' first episode of the season, Maddie dives into the alternative school options in the Jefferson County Public Schools system in Louisville, KY. She explores Pathfinder, Georgia Chaffee, Minor Daniels, and Girls and Boys Haven and their importance in promoting equity for all students. She also explores different ways that students learn in areas across the country.

Collborators: Maddie L, Viet P.

Our democracy is under threat. So why don’t we teach it?

In this episode of 13 Firsts, hosts Stephanie and Hser Htte discuss the lack and underdevelopment of civics education in Kentucky and the nation, with insights from guests including Louisville Congressman Morgan McGarvey and Civics Unplugged Program Director Adiah Price-Tucker. Listen to discover how this educational oversight affects us, our communities, and our country as a whole.

Collaborators: Stephanie N. , Hser Htte S., Maggie S., Daniel M., Emelia G., Addison L., and Viet P.

In this episode of 13 Firsts, Addison and Viet explore the life and legacy of Lyman T. Johnson, a Kentucky resident, pioneering educator, and civil rights activist. From breaking down racial barriers at the university level to fostering inclusivity in the classroom, Johnson's impact continues to inspire.

Collaborators: Addison L, Viet P, Ellie M.

Publisher of Interview: Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries

Rights Statement: All rights to the interviews\, including but not restricted to legal title, copyrights and literary property rights, have been transferred to the University of Kentucky Libraries. Interviews may only be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, University of Kentucky Libraries. 13 Firsts has received permission with appropriate citation.

Braden, Anne, 1924-2006. "Interview with Anne Braden, December 12, 1997." University of Kentucky. 1997-12-12, https://kentuckyoralhistory.org/ark:/16417/xt71jw86hr3t.

In this episode of 13 Firsts, Addison and Jordyn explore the complexities and history behind the holiday of Juneteenth. Together, they discusses the myths and truths surrounding the holiday and emphasize the importance of knowing your history.

Collaborators: Addison L. & Jordyn S.

Performance and visual arts have been hailed as safe places for expression and creative experimentation for thousands of years. However, the institutions, including in an educational setting, that foster these spaces are not immune to bias and exclusion, and the artists who wish to participate in them are frequently subjected to unfair discrimination. In this episode, Jewel will examine how young performers in Louisville are being impacted by discriminatory practices, as well as how they are working to change them.

Collaborators: Myla P.H, Jordyn S, Jewel P, Emilia G, Maggie S, Hser Htte S, Kennedy M.