A gripping new podcast series titled “Empire City” is set to reveal the largely untold origin story of the New York Police Department (NYPD), shedding light on the turbulent history that shaped one of the most influential law enforcement agencies in the world. This eight-part narrative podcast, produced by Wondery and Crooked Media, is hosted by the esteemed Peabody Award-winning journalist Chenjerai Kumanyika. The series promises to offer listeners a compelling and insightful journey into New York City’s past, unearthing the deep-seated roots of modern law enforcement in America.
A Journey Through New York City’s Past
“Empire City” is more than just a historical recount; it’s an exploration of the societal forces that forged the NYPD. The podcast takes listeners back to the mid-1800s, a time when New York City was a powder keg of social unrest. Labor protests, racial tensions, and widespread vice were commonplace. The city’s police constables were often implicated in heinous acts, such as kidnapping freed Black individuals and selling them into slavery. Against this backdrop, the first crime stories began to surface, circulated by the burgeoning newspaper industry. These early narratives helped shape public perceptions of crime and justice, setting the stage for the police force’s evolution.
The series made its debut at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival, where it was lauded for its vivid storytelling and meticulous research. Each episode of “Empire City” unpacks pivotal moments in New York’s history, challenging the conventional wisdom surrounding policing and politics in contemporary America.
Unveiling the Complex Legacy of the NYPD
Kumanyika’s exploration of the NYPD is as personal as it is historical. His father, Makaza Kumanyika, was a prominent civil rights organizer who was wrongfully arrested and surveilled by the NYPD for leading peaceful protests against police brutality. This familial connection adds a deeply personal dimension to the podcast, as Kumanyika navigates the complicated and often dark history of law enforcement in New York City.
Through interviews with historians, grassroots tour guides, organizers, and descendants of early police officers and resistance fighters, “Empire City” offers a multifaceted perspective on the NYPD’s history. Voices like Mariame Kaba, Leslie Alexander, Asad Dandia, Khalil Gibran Muhammad, Kamau Ware, and Jonathan Wells provide invaluable insights, along with former police officers who offer a glimpse into the culture and practices of the NYPD across different eras.
Spotlight on Key Episodes and Themes
Each episode of “Empire City” dives into specific themes and events that have left an indelible mark on the NYPD’s legacy. For instance, the podcast explores the historical roots of today’s debate over abortion pills, tracing it back to the 19th-century crusades of evangelical vice fighters who sought to eliminate New York City’s brothels. Another episode examines how the violent riots that once plagued the streets of New York led to the arming of police officers for the first time, forever altering the nature of law enforcement in the city.
These episodes not only recount historical events but also draw connections between past and present, illuminating how the NYPD’s origins continue to influence its role in contemporary society. The podcast challenges listeners to reconsider their understanding of policing and its impact on marginalized communities, both historically and in the present day.
Critical Acclaim and Anticipation
“Empire City” has already garnered significant attention, not just for its content but for its unique approach to storytelling. As an official selection of the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival, the podcast has been praised for its ability to blend rigorous historical research with engaging narrative techniques. Kumanyika’s skillful storytelling and the podcast’s high production values have made it one of the most anticipated releases of the year.
The podcast’s launch on September 9th will be ad-free on Wondery+, with episodes also available on all major podcast streaming platforms. As anticipation builds, “Empire City” is expected to become a significant cultural touchstone, offering a new lens through which to view the complex history of the NYPD and its enduring influence on American society.
Impact and Implications
“Empire City” arrives at a crucial time when conversations about policing and justice are at the forefront of national discourse. By delving into the NYPD’s past, the podcast provides context for understanding the present-day challenges facing law enforcement and the communities they serve. It raises important questions about the role of police in society, the legacy of racial injustice, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
As the series progresses, it will likely spark discussions among historians, activists, and the general public about the lasting impact of the NYPD’s origins. By highlighting lesser-known aspects of the department’s history, “Empire City” encourages a reexamination of how law enforcement has shaped, and been shaped by, the social, political, and economic forces of its time.
Conclusion
“Empire City” is poised to make a significant impact on both the podcasting world and the broader conversation about policing in America. Through its detailed exploration of the NYPD’s origins, the series not only uncovers the hidden history of one of the world’s most powerful police forces but also offers valuable insights into the ongoing challenges of law enforcement in a rapidly changing society. With its combination of historical depth, personal storytelling, and critical analysis, “Empire City” stands out as a must-listen for anyone interested in the complex interplay between history, politics, and policing.
As the release date approaches, “Empire City” is expected to capture the attention of listeners nationwide, offering a fresh perspective on a topic that remains as relevant today as it was over a century ago. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a podcast aficionado, or someone concerned with social justice, this series is sure to provide thought-provoking content that will resonate long after the final episode airs.
