Abolition Today

We're joined by NJ slavery abolitionists Dennis Febo and Antonne Henshaw to discuss abolitionist efforts in the state with SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION No. 135.  Antonne Henshaw, is a Rutgers Camden School of Criminal Justice Graduate School Student, The CEO and Founder of Transformative Justice Initiative Creator of “Meet Em at the Gate” one of TJI's most notable initiatives and a Lead Credible Messenger in New Jersey. Dennis Febo, MAH, is a speaker, community organizer, artist, abolitionist, and CEO and founder Guazabara Insights, LLC. Dennis also founded the New Jersey Credible Messenger movement and the the Amend the 13th movement in NJ, a lobbying strategy to remove the "exception clause" and add anti-slavery language to the New Jersey constitution. Mr. Febo is also a professor of graduate and undergraduate studies in Health Sciences at New Jersey City University. As always, we'll also bring the words of our abolitionists ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment. Abolition Today is available for streaming on all major podcast platforms.

This week we're joined by political activist, former member of the Black Panther Party, and the Black Liberation Army who served 49 years in prison, 13th Forward Coalition member Jalil Muntaqim to discuss his trials, tribulation and journey that led him to Slavery Abolition. Of course, we'll have powerful inspiring music, and as always we will bring the voices of the ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment.

Continuing with our 2023 "New Breed" interviews, this week our returning guests are Jamilia Land and Samual Nathaniel Brown.  They are two of the lead organizers for the "End Slavery In California Act". On Thursday, 2-16-23 at the CA Capitol they joined Assembly member Lori Wilson in hosting a press conference introducing the legislation. The act is an Assembly Constitutional Amendment that will remove involuntary servitude from the California State Constitution. We'll listen to some of the press conference highlights and discuss the future and history of slavery in California as well as nationwide. Jamilia is co-director of state operations for the Abolish Slavery National Network (ASNN) and a former board member of the March On Foundation. Samual is co founder of the Anti-Violence Safety and Accountability Project, (ASAP) and was the original author of the legislation. Written in his cell while incarcerated with a life sentence. Of course we've got music and poetry to share featuring Tupac Shakur, Knox Brown, Anderson Paak, Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley, and Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. We'll also get back to our Bridging The Gap Segment with "A Warning To The American People From Frederick Douglass". 

This week we're joined by members of 13th Forward to discuss the No Slavery in NY Act (S.225/A.3412). The New York anti-slavery bill. Our guests will be Jesse Koklas, Statewide Director for Ending Mass Incarceration at Citizen Action of NY. and Wilfredo Laracuente, 13th Forward Campaign Leader, Educator, and Formerly Incarcerated Advocate. Of course we'll have powerful inspiring music, and as always we will bring the voices of the ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment.

We continue introducing the class of 2024's slavery abolitionist state organizers. The New Breed. This week we're joined by Amber Phelps of Abolish Slavery VA, and Ohio's Jeanna Kenney of EPIC - Ensuring Parole for Incarcerated Citizens We'll also remember the late great Martin Luther King Jr. by sharing a few of his speeches you have probably never heard before. As always, we'll close the program by bringing the voices of the abolitionist ancestors back to life for a new generation.

In our 2023 season premier we'll be introducing two of the new state organizers leading the way to abolish constitutional slavery in their states for the 2023 session. Michigan's Edmond Rushton and representing North Carolina, Abraham Syed. We'll also be joined by the lead organizer for the Abolish Slavery National Network, Savannah Eldrige.   

We wrap up the year for our final live episode of 2023. We'll do a year in review, count our accomplishments, and look toward the New Breed with the class of 2024. The 16 states + DC who are set to shake the nation even more than we did in 2020, 2022, and 2023. We want you to call in and join us (515) 605-9814. Tell us about your favorite episodes and tracks. Let's talk about the work and how far we've come in so little time. How far we've got to go. Of course there's gonna be blazing hot music, amazing spoken word, and eye opening speeches. We're taking out the year with a big bang and a deep bow.  Be sure to tune in and call in for this powerful evening with Yusuf & Max!

If we had a nickle for every time someone told us that no one would argue in favor of slavery today, we'd be half rich. Good people often make the mistake of believing that if "you" can't think like that no-one else would either. Nah bruh. Let us tell you something. On this front line we've heard pro-slavery arguments from state reps and influencers all across this country. In Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Ohio, Vermont, New jersey, Oregon, California, and more. We're talking unbudging, shameless, hard core, feet planted firmly, arguments of all sorts. With nary a care that it was all said out loud in public. We've heard it and counter-argued in person as public testimony. We've heard it on zoom meetings of official congressional and senate hearings, and we've heard it from people with mass media platforms that reach millions. As a matter of fact, for this Sunday's episode of Abolition Today  we will present the 2023 pro-slavery perspective. Because there is one and it's hella loud and hella influential. The next time you hear someone say nobody would argue in favor of keeping slavery legal, tell them Abolition Today said YES, they have, and they will.  

We are joined by New Hampshire activist, abolitionist, and Organizer Ophelia Healing Justice and N.H. State Representative Amanda Bouldin. Ophelia and Amanda represent the grass roots organizing and legislative efforts behind New Hampshire's push to create a constitutional amendment officially abolishing slavery in the state for the first time. It is said that N.H. abolished slavery in 1857. We'll show how that is not true at all. We've got the receipts. As always, we will tie it all together with great music, spoken word, and bring the voices of the abolitionist ancestors back to life for a new generation.

In honor of the passing of John Knippel, treasurer of No Exceptions North Carolina, and his slavery abolitionist legacy, we will rebroadcast this episode where Max, Yusuf, and John were together in the Paul Cuffee Abolitionist Center, Sumter, SC.   We dug deeply into the term and practice of involuntary servitude. What it is, how it works, who it applies to, why it's even legal, and how it's simultaneously ILLEGAL for every other nation in the world except the US. We were joined by slavery abolitionist Samual Nathaniel Brown. Original author of the California abolition act which he wrote while incarcerated. He's one of the lead advocates for ACA8. The 2023 California Abolition Act.  California and North Carolina are the only two states that abolished slavery in their state constitution but added an exception to protect the practice of involuntary servitude.  As always we ask why, then provide real answers.

Yusuf, Max, and the ASNN Aboluminati are live on location from DC after the 52nd annual Congressional Black Caucus convention. We'll talk about our experiences with legislators in our efforts to amplify the slavery abolition movement and to garner legislative support for a momentous year in 2024. We'll be introducing 16 slavery abolition bills from 16 states to change 16 constitutions. All while support grows for the Abolition Amendment. A federal joint resolution to repeal the 13th amendment and replace it with a 28th amendment that abolishes slavery and involuntary servitude without exception as a punishment for crime or any other reason. Of course we'll tie it all together with music, spoken word, and the teachings of Slavery Abolitionist ancestors brought to life for a new generation.

Consider tonight as a follow up to last week's episode with a review of recent United States Supreme Court rulings on extreme sentences for juveniles: the death penalty, life without the possibility of parole, and 8th Amendment violations in sentencing juveniles.   Max has a much-deserved day off. Yusuf will be joined by guest co-host Curtis Davis, Co-Director of State Operations of the Abolish Slavery National Network, Executive Director of Decarcerate Louisiana, and author of "Slave State: Evidence of Apartheid in America" which was also made into a documentary.   We'll have music, insightful conversation, uplifting, educational, and inspirational discussions, and as always we'll bring the voices of the abolitionist ancestors back to life for a new generation with our Bridging The Gap segment.  

Jaubrae Dixon is a 26-year-old advocate of rehabilitation. Using his personal experiences, insight, and determination towards being a part of the solution, Jaubrae has authored a self-help group - now turned Non-Profit organization - by the name of C.H.A.N.G.E.S, that was designed to assist other men searching for true change in their own life. Incarcerated at the age of 17 years old, Jaubrae's life was abruptly flipped completely upside down. Faced with tragedies, the strain of everyday prison life, and his own internal struggle of searching for his true identity - through the grace of God - Jaubrae prevailed. After 9 years of incarceration, Jaubrae was finally freed, but his work towards helping others hasn't stopped. Blessed with his first real chance at life, and driven by his purpose of cultivating generational change, Jaubrae has focused his attention towards continuing the same drive that he had while inside. Everything about his journey played a part in where he is now in his life, and with his whole new lease, Jaubrae intends to keep the same energy in advocating for the next brother, or sister, earning their freedom too!   Join us. Tune in, Tell a Friend, Things will never be the same again.  Tales From the Plantation Nation Podcast  Every Wednesday 4pm Pacific and 7 pm Eastern.  Abolitiontoday.org

The focus is often on adults. What they endure. What they are fighting. What horrors they must overcome. But what about our children? As a parent who has lost multiple sons to this system and decades of their lives I gotta tell you. This episode was difficult to produce. Nonetheless, the truth must be told. If you're ever going to join us to abolish legalized constitutional slavery in law and practice, all the reasons you need are in this episode. Bring plenty of kleenex, a punching bag, and some pom poms. It's gonna be an emotional roller coaster ride.

This Sunday we face the issue of potential civil war as it is and not as we want it to be. We'll let you hear what we've heard and listen to what the experts are saying. We'll also let those calling for a civil war speak for themselves. From police to the president. In their own damning words. We've got powerful music to match and we'll bring the words of our wise abolitionist ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment. They have so much left to teach and you're gonna learn today.

It's been a rough two weeks as our co-host Yusuf Hassan dealt with the passing and internment of his father Joseph. A huge fan of the program and a slavery abolitionist. But, on August 27th we're back and broadcasting LIVE from Denver Colorado at the Abolish Slavery National Network Anniversary Event! We'll talk with ASNN organizers and recap the weekends events. We will discuss the future of slavery abolition and turn it all up with amazing music and spoken word. Then, we'll close it all out with an epic speech from Frederick Douglass read by Ossie Davis in our Bridging The Gap segment. We introduced all of it right here on Abolition Today when it began and we'll reintroduce it in 2023. Ladies and gentlemen. We Are The Abolish Slavery National Network and in only five short years 8 state constitutions no longer allow slavery as a punishment for crime because we exist. We are here. God willing, we'll be here till the job is done and the battle is won. Amen and amen.

Please keep our brother Yusuf Hassan and his family in your prayers as they are going through very troubled times. In his absence I'll be joined by multi published, multi recorded, Spoken Word legend, Tribal Raine. AKA Mrs Parthas. :) In this episode we're dropping mics and exploding truth bombs while amplifying voices that break the issues down so succinctly it should be considered an art form. Of course we've got powerful music and poetry lined up as well as bringing the voices of our abolitionist ancestors back to life for a new generation of slavery abolitionists.

Replay: On this first day of Black August 2021, we look at how the cotton industry made kings in america. We'll keep you updated on the latest efforts in the slavery abolitionist movement and discuss recent news as it relates to the struggle. #shutemdown2021 has begun!  This message comes from our sponsors at Jailhouse lawyers Speak and I Am We Ubuntu Millions for Prisoners Human Rights Coalition. Follow the link iamweubuntu.com And of course, as always, we've got music and poetry that will touch your soul and move your body. Including bringing the voices of the ancestors back to life in our Bridging The Gap segment.

We address the myths being perpetrated that in any way, shape, or form, that slavery was beneficial to black people, that there was such a creature as a good enslaver, or that slaves were happy and content with their oppressive conditions. It's a shame we even need to explain this in 2023 but who better than us right? As always, we'll share amazing music, poetry, and bring the voices of the abolitionist ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The gap Segment.

In this episode we're all black everything. We're play music about being black. We'll talk about black issues. Highlight systemic racism against black lives. We'll Discuss black history, and do it all unapologetically. In the past few months we've gotten some complaints that we focus too much on black people. On Social media I've been accused of conspiring to hide black criminality. Well, this episode is for you. If it pisses you off so be it. Blame Max. I chose to do this episode. In a nation where you can't even say the words Black People (choosing POC instead) or talk about issues exclusive to descendants of the Diaspora without showing an often nonexistent intersectionality in some kind of oppression Olympics, we're about to black out on your ass. Of course, we're going to bring the voice of a BLACK abolitionist back to life for a new generation in our bridging The Gap segment. I see you seething and it makes me smile.

The knowledge and information. The Abolitionist Music/Poetry. The Voices of the ancestors reclaimed. The news, views, and special guests. The compelling narratives and powerful commentary. The 1st hand testimony from activists at the heart of the modern slavery abolitionist movement. www.abolitiontoday.org Made Possible by; I Am We Prison Advocacy Network/Millions for Prisoners Coalition Jailhouse Lawyers Speak Paul Cuffee Abolitionist Center SAYMA URJ Prysmatic Dreams

Host Samual Nathaniel Brown is joined by guest Jose Zapata and Victor Forte. Jose went to prison as a teenager. In April he was released. He served 13.5 years.  After 31 years, Victor Forte, also a youth offender, has returned and he joins Jose to discuss what it was like entering prison as a youth and the challenges he has faced upon his release.   Join us. Tune in, Tell a Friend, Things will never be the same again.  Tales From the Plantation Nation Podcast  Every Wednesday 4pm Pacific and 7 pm Eastern.  Abolitiontoday.org

The parable of the blind men and an elephant is a story of a group of blind men who have never come across an elephant before and who learn and imagine what the elephant is like by touching it. Each blind man feels a different part of the elephant's body, but only one part, such as the side or the tusk. They then make a determination of what creature they are touching based on the limited knowledge. This week we explain the 4 competing groups attempting to dominate the US justice system narrative. What groups? What narratives? What's the difference? What do they have in common? Is it a problem? How? Using music, poetry, and dialogue, we'll discuss all that and more. As always, we'll also bring the words of our abolitionists ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment. Abolition Today is available for streaming on all major podcast platforms. Program archives www.abolitiontoday.org Video playlists www.youtube.com/abolitiontoday Remember to like, follow and subscribe. If you don't, the ancestors might haunt you until you do.

Join us for this episode of Tales From the Plantation Nation as our host Samual Nathaniel Brown is joined by guest, Porshe Taylor. As the Founder and Executive Director of Prison From-TheInside-Out, she is making history. Tune in to learn how, why, and much more as we discuss this, current events and what makes Porshe go so hard in pursuit of her goals. Tune in. Tell a friend. Things will never be the same again.  Tales From the Plantation Nation Podcast  Every Wednesday 4pm Pacific and 7 pm Eastern.  Abolitiontoday.org

Sincere Ignorance and Conscientious Stupidity The most dangerous thing in the world "Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity." -Martin Luther King Jr. Tonight we directly address the pro-slavery anti-black arguments. The complete denial, the logical fallacies, the stereotypes and tropes. The arguments of the past and the present because they are one and the same. Join Max and Yusuf as we break it all down to expose the insanity of the slaver class and their puppet minions.

Join us for this episode of Tales From the Plantation Nation as our host Samual Nathaniel Brown is joined by guest, Porshe Taylor. As the Founder and Executive Director of Prison From-TheInside-Out, she is making history. Tune in to learn how, why, and much more as we discuss this, current events and what makes Porshe go so hard in pursuit of her goals. Tune in. Tell a friend. Things will never be the same again.  Tales From the Plantation Nation Podcast  Every Wednesday 4pm Pacific and 7 pm Eastern.  Abolitiontoday.org

Louisiana has embarrassed itself and the entire nation once again by refusing to pass HB 211. The slavery abolition bill. In 2022 Louisiana became the face of national shame by being the only state of 5 who did not pass a slavery abolition bill. In S4-E16 Special Extended Broadcast - The Testimony of Angels and Devils HB211 LA you heard their wicked reasoning for not wanting to give up the criminal act of involuntary servitude AKA Forced/Slave labor in 2023. This Sunday, Fathers day, on the eve of Juneteenth, we're joined by LA Representative Edmond Jordan. Author of HB 211 to get the rundown on how in the confounding confederate slave state this happened again. We'll have music, insightful conversation, uplifting, educational, and inspirational discussions, and as always we'll bring the voices of the abolitionist ancestors back to life for a new generation with our Bridging The Gap segment.

Host Samual Nathaniel Brown is joined by guests Chris Lodgson and KJ Muhammad.   KJ Muhammad, better known as Friday Jones, is one of three Co-Chairs and a founding member of NAASD Los Angeles. KJ was recently appointed as a Commissioner to Mayor Garcetti's Los Angeles Reparation Commission. KJ is the author and publisher of a self-help memoir “The Real Friday Jones.” KJ is a Budget Representative for Empowerment Congress West Area Neighborhood Council and served as a Budget Advocate for the City of Los Angeles for the fiscal year 2019/2020. KJ is also an active member of the New Frontier Democratic Club and Black Women's Democratic Club in Los Angeles. KJ is a proud graduate of Howard University and most recently the Los Angeles African American Women's Political Policy Institute 2020. In her mind's eye, she is a dancer and occasional actress, in real life she does pretty good math!   Chris Lodgson is the President and lead organizer/advocate for the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California, as well as a Community Organizing and Policy Manager in the Sacramento Office of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC). Originally from New York City, now living in Sacramento California, Chris has organized and advocated on behalf of local community-based and political organizations, as well as with local, state, and national nonprofit organizations for over 13 years on both the East Coast and West Coast. Chris is also the 2022 recipient of the Fannie Lou Hamer Boots on the Ground Award for Community Organizing from the National Assembly of American Slavery Descendants (NAASD).   Join us. Tune in, Tell a Friend, Things will never be the same again.  Tales From the Plantation Nation Podcast  Every Wednesday 4pm Pacific and 7 pm Eastern.  Abolitiontoday.org

This Sunday Max and Yusuf are joined by Chris Lodgson. A leading voice in slavery reparations. Chris Lodgson is the President and lead organizer/advocate for the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California, as well as a Community Organizing and Policy Manager in the Sacramento Office of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC). Chris is also the 2022 recipient of the Fannie Lou Hamer Boots on the Ground Award for Community Organizing from the National Assembly of American Slavery Descendants (NAASD). In this pre-Juneteenth two episode set (Last week and this) we were joined by an organizer of National Juneteenth events ( Juneteenth Jamal Basill Bradley) and now, one of the leading voices in reparations. Chris Lodgson. Two topics that would normally indicate a post slavery society. And yet, both of these organizers are slavery abolitionists. We believe their unique perspectives will help others gain understanding of the issue surrounding modern legal slavery in a nation hell bent on pushing a false narrative of full emancipation and absolute abolition. Can we settle reparations while slavery is still legal and in practice? Tune in to find out.

Host Samual Nathaniel Brown is joined by guests Chris Lodgson and KJ Muhammad.   KJ Muhammad, better known as Friday Jones, is one of three Co-Chairs and a founding member of NAASD Los Angeles. KJ was recently appointed as a Commissioner to Mayor Garcetti's Los Angeles Reparation Commission. KJ is the author and publisher of a self-help memoir “The Real Friday Jones.” KJ is a Budget Representative for Empowerment Congress West Area Neighborhood Council and served as a Budget Advocate for the City of Los Angeles for the fiscal year 2019/2020. KJ is also an active member of the New Frontier Democratic Club and Black Women's Democratic Club in Los Angeles. KJ is a proud graduate of Howard University and most recently the Los Angeles African American Women's Political Policy Institute 2020. In her mind's eye, she is a dancer and occasional actress, in real life she does pretty good math!   Chris Lodgson is the President and lead organizer/advocate for the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California, as well as a Community Organizing and Policy Manager in the Sacramento Office of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC). Originally from New York City, now living in Sacramento California, Chris has organized and advocated on behalf of local community-based and political organizations, as well as with local, state, and national nonprofit organizations for over 13 years on both the East Coast and West Coast. Chris is also the 2022 recipient of the Fannie Lou Hamer Boots on the Ground Award for Community Organizing from the National Assembly of American Slavery Descendants (NAASD).   Join us. Tune in, Tell a Friend, Things will never be the same again.  Tales From the Plantation Nation Podcast  Every Wednesday 4pm Pacific and 7 pm Eastern.  Abolitiontoday.org

This Sunday we're joined by Juneteenth Jamal Basill Bradley. Organizer and founder of SC's Juneteenth Joyfest. One of the largest Juneteenth events in the US. In this two episode set (This week and next) we'll be joined by organizers of National Juneteenth events and a member of the California Reparations Task Force. Two topics that would normally indicate a post slavery society. And yet, both of these organizers are slavery abolitionists. We believe their unique perspectives will help others gain understanding of the issue surrounding modern legal slavery in a nation hell bent on pushing a false narrative of full emancipation and absolute abolition. Can we celebrate/commemorate/elevate Juneteenth as a national holiday while still recognizing the critical need for slavery abolition in today's society? Tune in and find out.  

Host Samual Nathaniel Brown is joined by guest Jose Zapata and Victor Forte. Jose went to prison as a teenager. In April he was released. He served 13.5 years.  After 31 years, Victor Forte, also a youth offender, has returned and he joins Jose to discuss what it was like entering prison as a youth and the challenges he has faced upon his release.   Join us. Tune in, Tell a Friend, Things will never be the same again.  Tales From the Plantation Nation Podcast  Every Wednesday 4pm Pacific and 7 pm Eastern.  Abolitiontoday.org

This week we're joined by formerly incarcerated and exonerated activist Marcus Kelley to discuss his abolition efforts in Nevada and Missouri. Assembly Joint Resolution 10 (AJR 10) has passed through all committees and is on the ballot. In 2024 Nevada citizens will get the opportunity to abolish slavery in that state for the first time with a simple vote. Taking this issue out of the hands of legislators and letting the people decide if THEY want slavery as a punishment for crime embedded in their constitution or not. As always we'll mix in music, poetry, powerful insightful commentary, and bring the voices of the abolitionist ancestors back to life for a new generation with our Bridging The Gap series.

Join us on this episode of Tales From the Plantation Nation as we welcome our Guests Davon "Champ" Woodley and King Eli to discuss the challenges of navigating the carceral system nationally from three perspectives:  1. Someone about to enter the belly of the beast. 2. People who have been. 3. Those who are still there. The goal is to have a real conversation as Eli is scheduled to begin a bid in the upcoming weeks. In the spirit of changing the narrative and improving outcomes, we will have a real talk with Eli about what to expect and how best to make the time serve him and not vice versa.  Join us. Tune in, Tell a Friend, Things will never be the same again.  Tales From the Plantation Nation Podcast  Every Wednesday 4pm Pacific and 7 pm Eastern.  Abolitiontoday.org

May 9th, 2023 testimony on HB 211. The slavery abolition bill In Louisiana. This Must Hear Episode exposes pro-slavery legislators in the deep south. We'll play clips of all the testimony in a deep dive to hear with your own ears the thoughts, concerns, and priorities of elected officials in regards to a simple question; "Do we want the globally illegal activities of slavery and involuntary servitude embedded in the state constitution?" What you hear will blow your mind. This is a special extended broadcast beginning at 7 PM Eastern and ending at 10 PM. The first 2 hours will be a live stream. The last hour can only be heard by calling in at (515) 605-9814. In the history of Abolition Today we have only had 1 extended episode. That tells you the impact and importance of this information. You'll hear it here exclusively on Abolition Today. We'll be joined for commentary by lead organizer of Decarcerate Louisiana Curtis Davis.

Premier of Tales From A Plantation Nation. Hosted by Hosted by Samual Nathaniel Brown. Sam is a activist, artist, and slavery abolitionist with multiple degrees who spent 24 years in California's prison systems.  He is now a leader in the states abolitionist movement and the orginial author of ACA3. The Abolition act which would have ended involuntary servitude in CA prisons. Which he wrote while incarcerated.  He's now advocating for the 2023 Abolition Act ACA 8. He's joined by guest Aaron SHOWTIME Taylor. Aaron spent 26 years incarcerated. 9 in San Quentin State Prison. Thanks to prop 57 he was released and is living his dreams which include guesting as the PA announcer for Warriors-Rockets game.

This week, the whole episode IS the Bridging The Gap Segment. We conclude with part 2 of Frederick Douglass's Denouncement Speech of 1888. In Columbia SC at the capitol building on June 27th, 2015 Thomas Washington, Tribal Raine and Max Parthas recorded the reading of "I Denounce the So-Called Emancipation as a Stupendous Fraud" by Fredrick Douglas (1888) in a 9 part series. They are powerful eye-opening and moving presentations that can be used for education purposes with students, viewing and conversation with friends or family, or just to show someone the truth. On a historical level, the readings were done June 27th at the South Carolina Statehouse. The day after Reverend and state Senator Clementa Pinckney, (one of nine victims in the June 17, 2015, shooting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC), lay in state at the capitol with his body having to pass under the rebel flag. This was the same day and same place Bree Newsome cut the confederate flag down just yards away. The monument we recorded at is one of the few in America dedicated to the history of the African Diaspora. In the center of the display is a marble dais with the 4 stones of the 4 African nations where Enslaved Peoples in SC originated. A direct connection to those ancestral lands. Our intention was to speak to the state and the nation using not our words, but those of a man who was arguably the greatest statesman we have ever know. His words ring true today. A sad truth that most have never heard. Hidden and muted on purpose because it didn't fit the false narrative. The productions include news clips of current events (at the time) which drive all of his points home like a prophet. During this black history month of 2023, we will play the Denouncement series on Abolition Today for the first time in its entirety. This week, the whole episode IS the Bridging The Gap Segment.

Welcome to our upcoming show on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, airing at 4pm PST and 7pm EST. This week, we are thrilled to have Dr. Jody Armour as our guest. Dr. Jody David Armour is the Roy P. Crocker Professor of Law at the University of Southern California. A widely published scholar and popular lecturer, he studies the intersection of race, law, morality, psychology, politics, ordinary language philosophy, and the performing arts. His latest book, N*gga Theory: Race, Language, Unequal Justice, and the Law (Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2020) looks at America's criminal justice system – among the deadliest and most racist in the world – through deeply interdisciplinary lenses. His latest free speech article is titled "Law, Language, and Politics," 22 University of Pennsylvania Journal of Constitutional Law 1073 (2020). Armour is a Soros Justice Senior Fellow of The Open Society Institute's Center on Crime, Communities & Culture, and he is on the Board of Directors for LEAP (Law Enforcement Action Partnership), an international 501(c)(3) non-profit of police, prosecutors, judges, corrections officials, and other law enforcement officials advocating for criminal justice reform. We also bring you the voices of the Incarcerated, the narratives of the formerly incarcerated, and the unsung heroes out here doing good in the world that you may not always hear about.   

We'll share history and make history in one night. In Columbia SC at the capitol building on June 27th, 2015 Thomas Washington, Tribal Raine and Max Parthas recorded the reading of "I Denounce the So-Called Emancipation as a Stupendous Fraud" by Fredrick Douglas (1888) in a 9 part series. They are powerful eye-opening and moving presentations that can be used for education purposes with students, viewing and conversation with friends or family, or just to show someone the truth. On a historical level, the readings were done June 27th at the South Carolina Statehouse. The day after Reverend and state Senator Clementa Pinckney, (one of nine victims in the June 17, 2015, shooting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC), lay in state at the capitol with his body having to pass under the rebel flag. This was the same day and same place Bree Newsome cut the confederate flag down just yards away. The monument we recorded at is one of the few in America dedicated to the history of the African Diaspora. In the center of the display is a marble dais with the 4 stones of the 4 African nations where Enslaved Peoples in SC originated. A direct connection to those ancestral lands. Our intention was to speak to the state and the nation using not our words, but those of a man who was arguably the greatest statesman we have ever know. His words ring true today. A sad truth that most have never heard. Hidden and muted on purpose because it didn't fit the false narrative. The productions include news clips of current events (at the time) which drive all of his points home like a prophet. During this black history month of 2023, we will play the Denouncement series on Abolition Today for the first time in its entirety. This week, the whole episode IS the Bridging The Gap Segment.

Premier of Tales From A Plantation Nation. Hosted by Hosted by Samual Nathaniel Brown. Sam is a activist, artist, and slavery abolitionist with multiple degrees who spent 24 years in California's prison systems.  He is now a leader in the states abolitionist movement and the orginial author of ACA3. The Abolition act which would have ended involuntary servitude in CA prisons. Which he wrote while incarcerated.  He's now advocating for the 2023 Abolition Act ACA 8. He's joined by guest Jody David Armour. The Roy P. Crocker Professor of Law at the University of Southern California. And Aaron SHOWTIME Taylor. Aaron spent 26 years incarcerated. 9 in San Quentin State Prison. Thanks to prop 57 he was released and is living his dreams which include guesting as the PA announcer for Warriors-Rockets game.

In advance of the May 5th Press Conference in Baton Rouge, LA, for HB 211, we're joined by Jamilia Land (CA) and Curtis Davis (LA). Both of whom will be on deck. Jamilia is co-director of state operations for ASNN, a lead advocate for the CA Abolition Act and a board member of the March On Foundation. Curtis is Executive Director of Decarcerate Louisiana, co-director of state operations for ASNN and author of "Slave State: Evidence of Apartheid in America" As always, we'll have amazing music mixes and also bring the words of our abolitionist ancestors' back

We dig deeply into the term and practice of involuntary servitude. What it is, how it works, who it appllies to, why it's even legal, and how it's simultaneously ILLEGAL for every other nation in the world except the US. We'll be joined by slavery abolitionist Samual Nathaniel Brown. Original author of the California abolition act which he wrote while incarcerated. He's one of the lead advocates for ACA8. The 2023 California Abolition Act.  California and North Carolina are the only two states that abolished slavery in their state constitution, but added an exception to protect the practice of involuntary servitude.  As always we ask why, then provide real answers. 

We're joined by NJ slavery abolitionists Dennis Febo and Antonne Henshaw to discuss abolitionist efforts in the state with SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION No. 135.  Antonne Henshaw, is a Rutgers Camden School of Criminal Justice Graduate School Student, The CEO and Founder of Transformative Justice Initiative Creator of “Meet Em at the Gate” one of TJI's most notable initiatives and a Lead Credible Messenger in New Jersey. Dennis Febo, MAH, is a speaker, community organizer, artist, abolitionist, and CEO and founder Guazabara Insights, LLC. Dennis also founded the New Jersey Credible Messenger movement and the the Amend the 13th movement in NJ, a lobbying strategy to remove the "exception clause" and add anti-slavery language to the New Jersey constitution. Mr. Febo is also a professor of graduate and undergraduate studies in Health Sciences at New Jersey City University. As always, we'll also bring the words of our abolitionists ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment. Abolition Today is available for streaming on all major podcast platforms.

How does legalized slavery exist in America? What's the quick answer? BLAME THE PRESIDENTS! Abolition today is a weekly online radio program with specific focus on modern slavery as it is practiced through the 13TH amendment of the US constitution and by for-profit prisons worldwide. Airs LIVE Sundays 7 PM EST US. 6 Central and 4 Pacific abolitiontoday.org Archived podcasts are available 24/7

The parable of the blind men and an elephant is a story of a group of blind men who have never come across an elephant before and who learn and imagine what the elephant is like by touching it. Each blind man feels a different part of the elephant's body, but only one part, such as the side or the tusk. They then make a determination of what creature they are touching based on the limited knowledge. This week we explain the 4 competing groups attempting to dominate the US justice system narrative. What groups? What narratives? What's the difference? What do they have in common? Is it a problem? How? Using music, poetry, and dialogue, we'll discuss all that and more. As always, we'll also bring the words of our abolitionists ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment. Abolition Today is available for streaming on all major podcast platforms. Program archives www.abolitiontoday.org Video playlists www.youtube.com/abolitiontoday Remember to like, follow and subscribe. If you don't, the ancestors might haunt you until you do.

This week we're joined by political activist, former member of the Black Panther Party, and the Black Liberation Army who served 49 years in prison, 13th Forward Coalition member Jalil Muntaqim to discuss his trials, tribulation and journey that led him to Slavery Abolition. Of course, we'll have powerful inspiring music, and as always we will bring the voices of the ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment.

This week we're joined by members of 13th Forward to discuss the No Slavery in NY Act (S.225/A.3412). The New York anti-slavery bill. Our guests will be Jesse Koklas, Statewide Director for Ending Mass Incarceration at Citizen Action of NY. and Wilfredo Laracuente, 13th Forward Campaign Leader, Educator, and Formerly Incarcerated Advocate. Of course we'll have powerful inspiring music, and as always we will bring the voices of the ancestors back to life for a new generation in our Bridging The Gap segment.

This week we are joined by Pat Gailey. Author of Fundamentals of Well-Being: Four Qualities You Can't Live Without. Pat is also the lead organizer for #AbolishSlaveryKY and a member of the Quaker community.  Last but not least she is a student of physicist David Bohm. This provides a great opportunity to discuss the physics of abolition.  Chaos/Complexity theory. Quantum theory, Fractal Geometry, wholeness and the Implicate Order.  The butterfly effect. Phase transitions. Self organizing systems. System thinking. Emergence. Initial conditions of chaos and pattern recognition.  We'll cover the science while breaking down the issues of legalized slavery in Pats home state of Kentucky and nationally.  Including the US Department of Justice's scathing report on policing in Louisville. Of course it will all be mixed with amazing music and educational/inspirational audio presentations. Even our Bridging the Gap segment covers The Science of Abolition as applied by the ancestors.  Be sure to bring pen & paper. Class is in and it will blow your mind. We're 3 days from Abolition Today's 3rd anniversary and we're doing something special you won't hear anywhere else from anyone else.

Silence can be destructive in the face of injustice because it can perpetuate the injustice by allowing it to continue unchecked. When people remain silent in the face of injustice, they are essentially condoning it and sending a message to the perpetrators that their actions are acceptable. This can embolden the perpetrators and make them more likely to continue their unjust behavior. Furthermore, silence can also lead to the marginalization and silencing of those who are being harmed by the injustice. When people fail to speak up and support those who are being oppressed, they are essentially complicit in the oppression and contributing to the harm being inflicted on the marginalized group. In short, silence can be just as destructive as actively participating in the injustice because it allows the injustice to persist and denies justice to those who are suffering. It is therefore crucial for individuals to speak out against injustice and use their voices to advocate for change and support those who are being oppressed. Today, through music, discussion, and truth, we address the sounds of silence on the issue of legalized slavery.  

A program hosted by, produced by, and featuring callers who are all currently incarcerated. Max and Yusuf are both tied up in abolition related efforts this weekend. So, In leue of our regular program we'll air episode 1 of our groundbreaking and revolutionary series from Season one. LIVE FROM THE PLANTATION! This is fitting as we're preparing to launch another similar series called "Tales From The Plantation" this March. Again, a program developed and produced by the formerly and currently incarcerated.

Continuing with our 2023 "New Breed" interviews, this week our returning guests are Jamilia Land and Samual Nathaniel Brown.  This husband/wife duo are two of the lead organizers for the "End Slavery In California Act". On Thursday, 2-16-23 at the CA Capitol they joined Assembly member Lori Wilson in hosting a press conference introducing the legislation. The act is an Assembly Constitutional Amendment that will remove involuntary servitude from the California State Constitution. We'll listen to some of the press conference highlights and discuss the future and history of slavery in California as well as nationwide. Jamilia is co-director of state operations for the Abolish Slavery National Network (ASNN) and a board member of the March On Foundation. Samual is co founder of the Anti-Violence Safety and Accountability Project, (ASAP) and was the original author of the legislation. Written in his cell while incarcerated with a life sentence. Of course we've got music and poetry to share featuring Tupac Shakur, Knox Brown, Anderson Paak, Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley, and Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. We'll also get back to our Bridging The Gap Segment with "A Warning To The American People From Frederick Douglass".