Encore: A History and Reflection on Emancipation with Tony Cohen

This episode initially aired on June 19th, 2021

We have a special bonus episode for you this week in celebration of our newest national holiday-- Juneteenth! Mary and Emma reunite with author, historian and farmer Tony Cohen for an exploration into the history of Juneteenth and the holiday’s complex folklore and origins. Tony takes us back in time to examine how this monumental declaration of freedom spread in a variety of ways depending on the geographic, economic and social landscape of the time.

Mary, Emma and Tony pause to reflect upon what freedom means and looks like in the modern era and why society continues to resist a hard look at injustice. Tony points to how altering behavior can feel like giving up our own freedoms and comforts and reminds us that the fair trade movement has deeply historic roots. He also reflects upon the transition from enslavement to the tenant farming system and points to how that system affects us still today. The trio grapples with some hard truths about freedom itself and acknowledges the work still left to be done. 

Tony shares how he celebrates Juneteenth at Button Farm and rejoices in community as he reflects upon the precious ability to gather and take new found enthusiasm into the world. 

Let’s get into the episode:

1:30 - Emma introduces this week’s special episode

3:00 - Tony Cohen on the history of Juneteenth

15:00 - The transition into freedom

20:00 - The shift to “waged” labor and the evolution of slavery

28:00 - Fair trade

31:00 - Local emancipation

41:00 - Celebrating Juneteenth

42:30 - The happenings at Button Farm

48:00 - Creating Community

Things Mentioned: 

• Button Farm
• Oprah’s visit 
• The Menare Foundation
• HipCamp - Camp at Button Farm 
• Anthony Cohen
• The Good Dirt - Episode 31 
• The AG Reserve - Montgomery County 
• The Underground railroad in Montgomery County, Maryland: A history and driving guide
• Juneteenth becomes a federal holiday 
• Lift Every Voice and Sing
• DC Emancipation Day 
• Montgomery County Historical Society 
• 13th Amendment 
• 14th Amendment
• 15th Amendment

Stay in touch & keep the conversation going:

Have thoughts on this episode? A question for Mary and Emma? We'd love to hear from you — send us a message at [email protected] or leave us a voicemail at 443-459-1950. Tell us what the good dirt means to you.

And stay tuned — Jill and Mary and Emma have so much more to explore together. Part Two is coming.

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Original music by John Kingsley. Editing and podcast production by Lady Farmer. The Good Dirt podcast is proudly part of the Connectd Podcasts network.

🌿 The Good Dirt Producers:

• Wendy Gray