Abolitionist Sanctuary

Send us a Text Message. When the weight of societal judgment weighs on the shoulders of Black mothers, where can they turn for solace and strength? Our latest conversation with Reverend Dr. Najuma Smith Pollard tackles this piercing question, unwrapping layers of faith interlaced with the fabric of social justice. A legacy passed down from her activist grandparents, Reverend Najuma's life is a testament to the power of education and awareness in challenging systemic injustices. We uncover the raw realities of Black motherhood, the criminalization of poverty, and the untold stories of resilience that redefine the narrative of struggle into one of indomitable spirit. Rev. Najuma vulnerably shares her personal story with the stigma and shame of survival as a single poor Black mother that led to incarceration and how her resilience is a source of an unlawful salvation that fuels her faith as a social justice leader and Pastor. The echoes of the gospel's call for liberation frame our dynamic discussion, as we untangle the sanitized interpretations that strip the Bible of its social justice roots. Reverend Najuma's insights as a pastor and community leader spotlight the church's pivotal role in advocating for the marginalized, serving as the hands and feet of a faith that demands action against oppression. We share our own encounters with systemic barriers and the psychological toll they exact on those fighting to provide for their families, while also casting a vision of hope through communal support and empowerment strategies. As a beacon leading towards the intersection of faith and justice, this episode is an invitation to join hands with movements reshaping the future of black and brown communities. Witness the transformative power of solidarity as we reflect on our experiences, from the painful loss of loved ones to the triumph of breaking cycles of poverty. We leave listeners with actionable steps, urging them to engage with social justice initiatives that resonate, educate themselves on the systemic challenges, and embrace the communal vision of thriving and justice for all. Support the Show. Sign-up and join a social media platform for abolitionists Enroll to take courses at Abolition Academy Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Send us a Text Message. Embark on an enlightening journey with the passionate voices of Crenshaw Dairy Mart's Ashley Blakeney, Ale, and Noe Olivas as they define the essence of abolition through the lens of art and resistance. Each guest unveils their unique interpretation of abolition, interweaving their cultural narratives and life stories into a tapestry of activism that challenges and inspires. Ashley, the executive director of CDM, demystifies the idea of abolition as more than a concept—it's a movement for dismantling oppressive structures and crafting a world where every need finds fulfillment. Meanwhile, Ale merges the worlds of fashion and activism, and Noe grounds his work in the rich soil of his family's history. Within the nurturing walls of the Crenshaw Dairy Mart, discover how art serves as a catalyst for healing and spiritual growth, anchored by the triad of ancestry, abolition, and spirituality. Explore innovative programs such as the North Star Healing Generations exhibit and the Abolitionist Pods, which take the form of intimate geodesic domes, demonstrates the tangible intersection of artistic expression and social transformation. These spaces symbolize a sanctuary for contemplative growth, encouraging community healing through the communal embrace of art. Join us as we acknowledge the profound impact of African diasporic religions on the spirit of political resistance, exploring the capacity of art and music to fuel the fires of liberation. In this heartfelt exchange, we draw connections between personal spiritual paths and the proactive nature of abolitionist endeavors, while also envisioning a future where resources flow towards nurturing artists as agents of change. As Abolition April unfurls its banner of joy and community solidarity, we look forward to the unfolding celebrations, steeped in creative resilience and driven by a fervent belief in the power of compassion, justice, and the flourishing of every community member. Support the Show. Sign-up and join a social media platform for abolitionists Enroll to take courses at Abolition Academy Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Send us a Text Message. Dr. Nikia Smith Robert hosts special guest Candice Benbow, to discuss her book, Red Lip Theology, and the intersections of faith, culture, Black women, and abolition. Support the Show. Sign-up and join a social media platform for abolitionists Enroll to take courses at Abolition Academy Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Send us a Text Message. Dr. Nikia Smith Robert hosts special guest Dr. Vincent Lloyd, to discuss his recent book, Black Dignity, and the struggle against domination that has undermined social justice movements, including #BlackLivesMatter. Support the Show. Sign-up and join a social media platform for abolitionists Enroll to take courses at Abolition Academy Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Send us a Text Message. Join Dr. Nikia S. Robert and guest, Dr. Toni M. Bond, in a conversation about reproductive justice and abolition. We delve into the overturning of Roe v Wade, reproductive justice, and its life-changing importance for Black women. Toni M. Bond is one of the twelve Black women who coined the term “reproductive justice” in 1994. Her research is informed by reproductive justice and is situated at the intersections of religion and reproductive and sexual justice. She is advancing the field of reproductive justice through her qualitative research on the impact of oppressive theological doctrines in the reproductive and sexual lives of Black women. Dr. Bond is also researching the unique forms of harassment and violence experienced by abortion care providers of color. Her current work is aimed at (1) identifying the number of abortion care providers of color in the US, (2) collecting their oral narratives about the harassment they have experienced by anti-choice proponents who use race and religion as tactics, and (3) developing resources to support abortion care providers of color who experience racial and religiously-based harassment. Dr. Bond received her doctoral degree in philosophy in religion, ethics, and society from Claremont School of Theology. Support the Show. Sign-up and join a social media platform for abolitionists Enroll to take courses at Abolition Academy Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook Subscribe to our YouTube Channel