This bonus episode originally 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


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Original music by John Kingsley. Editing and podcast production by Fast Forward Production.
? The Good Dirt Producers:
· Wendy Gray