Abolitionist Sanctuary: Recent Episodes
Nikia
Join Founder and Executive Director of Abolitionist Sanctuary, Rev. Nikia S. Robert, Ph.D., in a podcast about the criminalization of Black womxn's survival and a faith-based abolitionist movement!
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Faith, numbers, and land meet in a bold conversation about how Black families—and especially Black mothers—can move from survival to ownership. With guest Tawan Davis, CEO of The Steinbridge Group and NYU adjunct professor, we unpack the cycles behind DEI whiplash and government contraction, then chart a different route: activating underused HBCU and church land, replacing consumer debt with asset-backed leverage, and negotiating from ownership in a global economy that won’t wait for anyone.
We look squarely at the statistics: rising unemployment for Black women, the caregiving load, and a persistent wage gap that stings hardest when paired with student debt. Then we pivot to solutions that build compounding value. Tawan lays out the matching principle in plain language—pair long-term debt with long-term, appreciating assets—and shows how mortgages, whole life policies, and stock portfolios differ from credit cards and car notes. From there, we zoom into practice: structuring projects on HBCU campuses and church-owned land to create housing, services, and jobs while keeping control and sharing upside.
The heart of the story is ancestral. Matriarchs who crossed hostile highways bought homes, welcomed relatives, and built neighborhoods a down payment at a time. Their method still works—small money, big conviction, assets first—and their faith still sets our posture. We carry that ethic into a global frame: build mutual aid and community funds while accessing institutional capital on our terms. It’s not either-or. It’s Ubuntu and underwriting, legacy and leverage, scripture and spreadsheets.
If this mission resonates, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show. Join our movement: follow Abolitionist Sanctuary on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, download our mobile app, enroll at abolitionacademy.com, and become a member at abolitionistsanctuary.org. Your voice—and your assets—matter.
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We trace Dr. Jamal Bryant’s journey from family roots and grief to a movement-facing ministry that blends sermon craft, organizing, and economic imagination. We press into DEI rollbacks, leadership succession, and building power that feeds, houses, and employs our people.
• personal roots, parental influence, and grief as teacher
• love, accountability, and prayer as intimacy
• sermon craft for an unscripted, attention-thin culture
• Target Fast strategy and reawakening the Black church
• community organizing beyond Sunday metrics
• economic empowerment, land use, and viable revenue
• DEI rollbacks as financial violence against Black women
• shared agendas for elections and policy lanes
• leadership succession and youth pipelines
• abolitionist building alongside reforms
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Visit abolitionistsanctuary.org to give, become a member, and subscribe to our mailing list
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Susan Burton shares her powerful journey from cycling through prison to founding A New Way of Life, an organization providing housing and support for formerly incarcerated women with a 94% success rate. Her story illuminates how systemic racism criminalizes Black women's survival strategies while offering a model for healing through love, tolerance, and community care.
• Experiencing the tragic death of her five-year-old son and lacking access to healing resources in South LA
• Discovering the disparity between how addiction is treated in Black communities (prison) versus white communities (treatment)
• Creating A New Way of Life to offer housing, family reunification, workforce development, and time to heal
• Describing prison conditions as dehumanizing systems that strip identity and dignity
• Emphasizing how faith grounds her work as "a vessel for God's work"
• Challenging churches to move beyond judgment to practical support and abolition
• Extending her mission beyond reentry to community mutual aid during crises
Visit anewwayoflife.org to learn more about Susan Burton's work and upcoming events including the Justice on Trial Film Festival on October 4th and their annual gala on December 7th.
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When flames tore through Altadena on January 7th, they destroyed more than buildings—they revealed deep inequities in how America responds to disasters in Black communities. Against the backdrop of California's fifth deadliest wildfire, this episode brings together two survivors with starkly different recovery experiences.
Tamil, an intergenerational homeowner who operated a braiding business from the house her mother owned for 50 years, woke to find her world literally on fire. "I just sat there for hours as people on the news showed Altadena Drive burning," she recalls. "We left the car and I cried." Sixty miles away from her community and client base, Tamil now struggles with insurance paperwork, mortgage forbearance, and the isolation of starting over without adequate support.
Alongside her sits Shimika Gaskins, president of End Child Poverty California, whose professional connections mobilized immediately after she lost her home. "My place of work was super supportive. My team stepped in to make sure we had everything we needed right away." The contrast between their experiences highlights a troubling reality: disaster recovery systems work better for those already connected to resources.
Both women speak candidly about the failures that endangered lives—no functioning alert systems, fire hydrants without water, and delayed emergency responses compared to more affluent areas. "It's angering when we think about what could have prevented the fire," Shamika notes. "The fact that there was no alert system... it's just unacceptable."
Six months later, their faith remains tested but unbroken. Despite disappointment with some local churches, they've found strength in community and spirituality. "God never makes a mistake," Tamil reflects. "He does send his angels." Their advice for others still struggling resonates beyond disaster recovery: find your supportive people, protect your peace, remember to breathe, and don't be afraid to ask for help.
This powerful conversation reveals both heartbreak and hope—a testament to Black women's resilience and a call for equity in disaster response. Listen now and join us in supporting those still rebuilding their lives after the flames.
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What does one night of freedom look like when you're trapped in systems designed to extract your labor, silence your voice, and deny your humanity? In Ryan Coogler's masterful film "Sinners," this question unfolds through the story of Sammy, a young guitarist who seeks artistic expression outside the church walls in 1930s Mississippi. But freedom comes with costs, raising profound theological questions that still resonate today.
This riveting episode of Abolitionist Sanctuary features three brilliant scholars examining how "Sinners" disrupts traditional narratives about sin, salvation, and spirituality. Dr. Funayo E. Wood (Harvard PhD and Ifa Orisha priestess), Dr. Deanna Reed-Hamelin (religious studies scholar specializing in horror), and Dr. Candice Laughinghouse (theologian and musician) bring their unique perspectives to this Juneteenth special that celebrates Abolitionist Sanctuary's fourth anniversary.
Show Highlights:
• Horror as a genre serves as the perfect medium for expressing Black religious experience and the quest for meaning
• The vampire trope symbolizes how oppressive systems extract life and culture from vulnerable communities
• African spiritual traditions like Hoodoo are portrayed as sources of protection and wisdom rather than being demonized
• Black women function as spiritual anchors, with their conjuring practices offering community protection
• Racial capitalism manifests through symbolic elements like wooden nickels that expose the fraudulent currencies of economic exploitation
• The dichotomy between sacred church music and profane juke joint music represents artificial boundaries that restrict freedom
• Questions of theodicy arise when prayers and protective practices work for some but fail to save innocent lives
• Freedom may be fleeting or limited, but artistic expression and spiritual practice offer glimpses of liberation
Keep your eyes on Abolitionist Sanctuary for more critical conversations at the intersections of religion, abolition, and Black motherhood. Visit abolitionistsanctuary.org to become a member and join our mailing list.
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Join us as we welcome the extraordinary Ebony Janice, a luminary in the realms of authorship and activism, hailing from the rural landscapes of Ohio and North Carolina to the vibrant streets of Harlem. Listen as she recounts her journey and the essence of her impactful work with the Free People Project and the Ebony Janice Project. Discover how she champions Black women's healing and pleasure, and how her parents and ancestors have profoundly influenced her mission. Explore the cultural significance of her visual presence, and dive into her reflections on spiritual and romantic pursuits that drive her activism.
Experience Harlem through Ebony Janice's eyes as we uncover the community's unique challenges with environmental noise and the concept of "hood wellness." Hear firsthand accounts of the persistent noise pollution that affects mental well-being and the role gentrification plays in altering the cultural fabric of marginalized neighborhoods. We discuss the essential need for tranquil spaces where Black women and femmes can reconnect with their bodies and find peace amidst chaos. The dialogue extends to her transformative spiritual journey, navigating beyond a Christocentric identity to Yoruba priestess after an enlightening mission trip to Kenya, and the complex intersections of Christianity, Black identity, and slavery.
Throughout our conversation, we celebrate the wisdom of Black women elders, honoring figures such as Toni Morrison and Maya Angelou, whose contributions have paved the way for future generations. We delve into the intersectional challenges of race, gender, and state violence, emphasizing the resilience and joy that Black women cultivate in the face of adversity. Envisioning a future rooted in community safety and well-being, we discuss an abolitionist approach that prioritizes the protection and cherishing of Black lives.
This episode discusses the sharp contrasts among the attack, ascension, and activism of Black womanhood reflected in the murder of Sonya Massey by the police, the presumptive presidential nomination of Vice President Kamala Harris, and Black women leading organizing actions to redeem our democracy.
Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that honors Black womanhood, spirituality, and activism, offering both a reflective and forward-looking abolitionist perspective on these critical issues.
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Can racism be silenced? Join us as Reverend Nikia Smith Robert, PhD and Reverend Doctor Willie D Francois tackle this pressing question by exploring the concept of "white noise" from Francois’s book, "Silencing White Noise: Six Practices to Overcome Our Inaction on Race." Together, we dissect how racist speech, silence, and inaction serve to maintain white supremacy, and how even those affected by racism can unknowingly perpetuate it. From the specific vulnerabilities of Black women to the intersectionality of various forms of oppression, this episode lays bare the urgent need for comprehensive anti-racism practices.
Hear Dr. Francois and Dr. Robert as they scrutinize the theological underpinnings of punishment and incarceration, revealing how entrenched societal narratives frame Black bodies as inherently dangerous. With insights from Christian doctrines on sin and punishment, parallels are drawn between the concept of hell and the punitive nature of prisons. By weaving in perspectives from Chinese Buddhism and real-life stories, such as that of Kelly Williams Bolar, we illuminate the moral and ethical implications of a racially biased carceral system.
Finally, this episode explore actionable steps toward creating a true abolitionist sanctuary, grounded in the rhythms of reparative intercession. Dr. Francois discusses moving beyond white guilt to racial grief, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus' ministry in fostering compassion and justice. Discover how these spiritual principles can guide us towards a society where sanctuaries of refuge and solidarity replace systems of policing and punishment. Dr. Francois challenges us to stay connected as we strive for communal flourishing and a just society, following the teachings and hope of resurrection.
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Join Dr. Nika in a discussion with Patrisse Cullors, the co-founder of Black Lives Matter. Cullors' journey will inspire you as she shares how her maternal lineage and ancestral experiences with religion and systemic oppression fuel her art and activism. One standout moment is her collaboration with designer Rita Nazarino on the North Star bag collection, a project that combines traditional hand weaving with potent abolitionist symbolism inspired by Underground Railroad quilt patterns. Enhancing the narrative is a poignant poem by formerly incarcerated Black poet Nisi Berry, making these bags a canvas for abolitionist expression and future.
Our conversation takes you through the transformative power of embracing West African spiritual traditions, particularly Ifa, through the influence of Malidoma Patrice Somé's seminal book, "The Healing Wisdom of Africa." We delve into a moving case study from Malawi, as Ida Puliwa's work in her village to empower girls highlights the synergy between mutual aid and community resilience against patriarchal oppression that makes the African diaspora instructive for building abolitionist futures in the U.S.. Additionally, we examine the intertwined histories of African indigenous religions and political movements, underscoring how practices like Voodoo, Candomblé, and Orishas have historically fortified Black power and resistance. These reflections are deeply personal, drawing connections between abolition and the Cullors' own family encounters with carceral systems.
Our discussion pivots to the critical role of healing justice, particularly in the context of the Los Angeles County jail system. Spearheaded by concepts championed by Cara Page, we emphasize the necessity of healing justice services to support continually traumatized communities. Shifting the focus from individual self-care to collective care, we outline systemic changes vital for addressing the deep scars racism inflicts on Black health and well-being. We also touch on the delicate balance of activism and motherhood, revealing the often overlooked physical and emotional toll borne by those on the front lines. Wrapping up, we discuss the crucial role of artists in the struggle for abolition and reimagining a more just and equitable world.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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