Rhode Island PBS Weekly

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Rhode Island PBS Weekly is a Newsmagazine anchored in journalism that searches for truth and examines today's most important regional and local issues. Viewers are introduced to individuals, ideas and places in Rhode Island and beyond that they won't see anywhere else.

February 6, 2022 - "Indian Boarding Schools" / The Great Swamp Massacre of the Narragansetts

On this episode of Rhode Island PBS Weekly, we report on stories that are both tragic and hidden histories that indigenous people endured in Rhode Island and around the country. We begin in the late 1800’s with the practice that lasted almost a century: Native American children taken from their families and forced in “Indian Boarding Schools” by the Federal Government. The suffering caused by the often-brutal assimilation has resulted in multi-generational trauma for indigenous people, including the Narragansetts of Rhode Island. Pamela Watts has the story.

Long before Indian Boarding Schools took root in America, Rhode Island was the scene of a well-documented injustice to Indigenous Americans. David Wright has this Rhode Island PBS Weekly exclusive story on a brutal incident known as the Great Swamp Massacre that took place three hundred and fifty years ago.

February 13, 2022 - Rep. Jim Langevin / College Hunger/ Lylah Alphonse Commentary

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel sits down with Representative Jim Langevin, who made history as the first quadriplegic to serve in Congress. Then, a look at the shocking number of college students who can’t afford food, and a program looking to help. Finally, Lylah Alphonse, Editor of Globe Rhode Island, provides her personal take on the problem of food insecurity.

February 20, 2022 - Cartoonist Will Henry / Children's Author Jeff Kinney / RI's Winter Swimmers

On this episode, contributing reporter David Wright sits down with the creator of the nationally syndicated cartoon, Wallace the Brave. Then, we re-visit Pamela Watts in-depth interview with children’s book author, Jeff Kinney, creator of the best seller “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”. And finally, Rhode Island PBS Weekly's senior producer Justin Kenny profiles the Ocean State’s “cold water swimmers”.

February 27, 2022 - Central Falls Mayor Rivera/ RI Congressman David Cicilline / White Electric

On this episode, Michelle San Miguel introduces u to Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera, who speaks candidly about the challenges facing Rhode Island’s smallest city. Then, Pamela Watts interviews Congressman David Cicilline, who has taken on tech giants like Facebook and Amazon. Plus, a visit to White Electric, Rhode Island’s first cooperatively-owned coffeeshop.

March 6, 2022 - Doulas / Nuclear Option? / Lylah Alphonse Commentary

Rhode Island PBS Weekly takes an in-depth look at a movement in Rhode Island hoping to help pregnant women by increasing their access to doulas. Then, John Smith explores how climate fears have sparked new interest in a controversial source of energy: nuclear. Finally, Lylah Alphonse, Editor of Globe Rhode Island, provides her take on the benefits and drawbacks of nuclear power.

March 13, 2022 - Long Covid / Lives Lost / One Gun Gone

Rhode Island PBS Weekly takes an in-depth look at long COVID, exploring how symptoms can linger for months after a COVID infection. Then, Pamela Watts interviews a former gang member about what’s behind the alarming rise of gun violence in Providence. Plus, a Providence artist turns guns into art.

March 20, 2022 - No Shrinking Violet / Dan Blakeslee / Black Joy

On this episode, contributing reporter David Wright sits down with Arlene Violet for an in-depth interview. As a former nun who later became the first female attorney general in Rhode Island, Violet has long been a pioneer for justice. Then, contributing reporter Bill Bartholomew profiles Dan Blakeslee, visual artist and musician. Plus, an excerpt from Bria Medina’s Black Joy documentary which is airing soon on Rhode Island PBS.

March 27, 2022 - Breaking Point / My Best Life / Addictive Algorithms

Michelle San Miguel explores how the pandemic has taken a toll on mental health, increasing demand on the already drained mental healthcare system. Then, Pamela Watts speaks to two transgender Rhode Islanders about their journeys to living their best lives. Finally, a look at the link between social media use and poor mental health, especially among teen girls. This episode was generously supported by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island.

April 3, 2022 - Silent Service / Music Man / Window on Rhode Island

This week on Rhode Island PBS Weekly, as potential threats from Russia and China loom, Michelle San Miguel takes a close look at the naval defense industry of southeastern New England known as the "Silicon Valley of undersea warfare" in some circles. Next, Pamela Watts profiles maestro and Providence College graduate Troy Quinn. Finally, we discover the treasures to be found at the historic Providence Athenaeum.

April 10, 2022 - Reducing Harm / Behind the Weather / Bitter Loss

This week on Rhode Island PBS Weekly, as drug overdoses in the state surge to record levels, Michelle San Miguel introduces us to a controversial new state program aimed at saving lives.

Next, Contributing reporter Bill Bartholomew introduces us to a North Kingstown High School Student gaining a legion of followers for his weather reports.

And finally, as ballparks fill up across the country for opening day, contributing reporter David Wright revisits one of the worst baseball losses in Rhode Island history.