The episode explores what happens when we call ourselves abolitionists - or more pointedly, what occurs when we don’t claim it as an identity. Robyn is joined in conversation with show producer, Ali Owens.
Claiming 'abolitionist' as an identity has always been something that create feelings of unease. I began to dive deeper into abolitionist praxis throughout 2020, I came across a Twitter thread by Dr. Ashan Crawley that articulated arguments against claiming an abolitionist identity that deeply resonated with my thoughts and feelings, as well as those I had been learning from. You can check out the Twitter thread here.
This conversation provides insight into our stance on claiming any anti-oppression based process as an identity (ie: anti-racist, abolitionist, etc). We also highlight the political and situational nuances that necessitate identifying as an abolitionist.
Some of adrienne maree brown's Emergent Strategy concepts are woven into our discussion. We highly recommend her book, which you can buy from most all online book retailers including AK Press: https://www.akpress.org/emergentstrategy.html.
Gratitude shout out to our FIRST show supporter: Lily Z! Thank you for your support and dedication.
The transcript for this episode can be found on our website at: ominiralabs.com/podcast/003
Want to support our show?
As a podcast supporter you will receive access to bonus content and engagement opportunities such as: a seasonal zine, community Q&A sessions, artwork and other resources. Click here to support us!
Follow us on Instagram: @ominiralabs
Hop on our newsletter to receive updates and special offerings.
*** This show is recorded and produced on the ancestral and unseeded lands of the Cheyenne, Arapahoe and Ute Nations. Liberation Labs Radio is created and produced by Robyn Mourning and Ali Owens.
