March 12, 2022

No, the Pandemic Isn’t Over

As Covid-19 safety restrictions ease across the country (again), Matter of Fact takes a look at the millions of Americans either immunocompromised or still suffering from “long covid.” Soledad sits down with Dr Katelyn Jetelina, an assistant professor at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and author of the popular newsletter “Your Local Epidemiologist,” to talk about how to protect the most vulnerable.

Clean Drinking Water Out of Reach for Many

More than a decade ago, residents of a rural South Carolinian community discovered lead in their water. The  chemical used to clean it may have caused more harm than good. The known pesticide was banned for drinking water use. The well that was the source was shut down, and state officials have declared the city’s drinking water to be safe. However, four years later, residents say the water still isn’t safe and they are forced to rely on bottled water. Special correspondent Joie Chen traveled to Denmark, South Carolina, for a closer look at the issues and the on-going battle for environmental justice.

March 5, 2022

No, the pandemic is not over. As vaccine and mask restrictions ease, Matter of Fact looks at how immunocompromised and COVID-19 long haulers will be affected in this new phase. Plus, a look at the amount of disinformation and misinformation about the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Classrooms in Crisis: Teachers walking away

Across the country, schools are struggling to keep up with teacher shortages as COVID-19 infections continue and teachers quit. But many say the pandemic is merely underscoring the amount of work that teachers have been expected to absorb in recent years. Soledad O’Brien speaks with Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association, the country’s largest union.

 

 

FEBRUARY 26, 2022

In a far-reaching interview, Soledad O’Brien speaks with the multi-talented John Legend about his musical roots and his passion to fix what he calls the “ criminal punishment system.”

A Tiny Solution to a Big Problem

As more and more Americans struggle to find affordable housing tiny homes are being seen as one possible solution to take care of the unsheltered. In Seattle, more than 16 – and growing — tiny house villages have been built for the homeless, providing social distancing, privacy, stability, and fresh air. Soledad O’Brien sits down with Sharon Lee, founding Executive Director for the Low Income Housing Institute, to see whether they’re working.

Oklahoma Teachers Quitting in Record Numbers

Rebecca Harris walked away from teaching in Tulsa, Oklahoma after 35 years. She shares her heartbreaking account of why a lack of resources for educators motivated her to make a tough decision. Watch here.

Is help on the way? Becky Pringle, the president of the National Education Association talks to Soledad about the challenges of recruiting and retaining teachers, a problem that started long before the pandemic.

February 19, 2022

Teachers are hitting their breaking points. This week, Matter of Fact looks at how issues in education preceded the pandemic. Plus, how tiny homes could be one solution to big homelessness problems. Check out more at MatterofFact.tv.

February 12, 2022

Matter of Fact brings seven strangers together for a virtual social experience. See what happens when texting turns to talking – as they react to viral videos showing racial bias. Plus, how symbols and on-screen representation impact the way we see each other.