In 2017, musician Simon Tam successfully won his Supreme Court case to trademark the term, “The Slants.” The only person to be denied the trademark name because of his Asian background, he’s now turned his story into an opera — a musical medium that’s attracting the attention of Gen Z and younger Millennials. Correspondent Joie Chen speaks with Tam about adapting his story for a new stage.
As 911 calls increase across the country, many fire departments are facing staff shortages and struggling to keep up with demand. Correspondent Dan Lieberman visited Marion County, Florida, to see the creative efforts of one department trying to solve their recruitment challenges.
This week Matter of Fact looks at the life and death struggle that many communities are facing in order to keep up with the demand for firefighters. Plus, many observers are hopeful that more IRS funding could lead to better customer service and a change in who gets audited most frequently. And the story of a rock band’s Supreme Court battle goes center stage as an opera.
After years of budget cuts to the IRS, the federal government agency is getting an $80 billion boost to upgrade dated computer systems and hire more agents. Many observers hope this will lead to better customer service and more even handed enforcement. Soledad O’Brien speaks with Susan Long, associate professor at Syracuse University and co-founder/co-director of TRAC, about how this will affect most Americans.
New directions. This week Matter of Fact takes a close look at several Supreme Court cases that will impact generations to come, including Internet free speech, affirmative action and whose voice should be weighted most when it comes to water rights. Plus, efforts to tax and limit emissions in Manhattan could lead drivers to reroute through “asthma alley” – a New York neighborhood known for high rates among children. And a rising cocktail drink master is making sure more voices are at the table – and the bar.
Jobs, jobs, jobs. This week Matter of Fact looks at the vital role immigration is playing in order to keep small towns and family farms afloat in Wisconsin. Plus, how a lack of reliable, affordable broadband is stifling job creation in rural Arkansas. And a look at the growing manufacturing hub that’s reframing what can be produced in a city better known for its actors and movies.