The racial history of the 'overpopulation time bomb' and 'pronatalism' movements

NPR | By Gene Demby,

Michel Martin

Published October 28, 2025 at 5:00 AM EDT

Code Switch explores the racial history of two seemingly opposing movements that inform today's declining birthrates.

Gene Demby

Gene Demby is the co-host and correspondent for NPR's Code Switch team.

See stories by Gene Demby

Michel Martin

Michel Martin is a host of Morning Edition.

See stories by Michel Martin

SUSTAIN what matters. BUILD what’s next.

With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.