The Thing About Witch Hunts

Latest Episodes:

Witchcraft Accusations in Ghana with John Azumah Apr 03, 2024

Show notes

Joined by John Azumah, an expert who sheds light on the origins and societal impacts of witchcraft accusations, we navigate the intricate landscape of family disputes, community fears, and the national efforts to combat this grave injustice. Our journey takes us into the heart of communities torn apart by fear and suspicion, where accusations of witchcraft have long led to banishment and the resulting formation of 'witch camps.' Azumah's insights offer a profound look at the cultural and societal dynamics that perpetuate these practices, as well as the ongoing struggles to reintegrate victims into their communities amidst threats of re-accusation and violence. This episode is a deep dive into the efforts at various levels to address and hopefully eradicate the stigma and harm caused by these ancient accusations, highlighting the urgent need for reform and protective measures for those unjustly accused.

Recommended Reading

United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution 47/8. Elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks

Report of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights: Study on the situation of the violations and abuses of human rights rooted in harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks, as well as stigmatization

Websites of Note

The Sanneh Institute: Research, Religious, Society

Total Life Enhancement Center, Ghana

Songtaba.org Securing Basic Rights for Women and Girls

Women's International League for Peace and Freedom

Action Aid Ghana

Legal Resource Centre Ghana

Amnesty International, Ghana

End Witch Hunts

Why Witch Hunts are not just a Dark Chapter from the Past

The International Network against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices

Grassroots organizations working with The International Network

International Alliance to End Witch Hunts

Detestable and Wicked Arts with Paul Moyer Mar 27, 2024

Show notes

Paul Moyer delves into New England's witch-hunt history this week on Witch Hunt. Drawing from his book, Detestable and Wicked Arts, Moyer discusses the origins of witchcraft beliefs, transatlantic connections, and infamous trials like Salem and Hartford. Learn about the societal pressures behind these hunts, from religious conflicts to political turmoil, and gain new insights into this haunting chapter of American history. How did heavy societal expectations on family and marriage bring out the hunting of diabolical duos, couples accused of being witches? Paul Moyer discusses his upcoming book about a gripping murder case set in antebellum America, an enthralling history with themes of social justice and defiance of gender norms.

Buy the book, Detestable and Wicked Arts by Paul B. Moyer

Petition to recognize those accused of witchcraft in MassachusettsList of those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts

Donate to The International Network Small Grant Fund GoFundMe Campaign

TINAAWAHP

Witch Hunt Book Store

End Witch Hunts Movement

Support Us! Buy Podcast Merch!

Witch Hunt 15: Stacy Schiff Explains the Salem Witch Trials in Under 15 Minutes Mar 23, 2024

Show notes

This episode features an interview with Pulitzer Prize-winning author Stacy Schiff, discussing her book 'The Witches: Suspicion, Betrayal, and Hysteria in 1692 Salem' and exploring the Salem Witch Trials. Schiff addresses common misconceptions about the trials, such as the method of execution and the demographics of the accused, and delves into the complicated array of factors that led to the witch-hunt, including political, social, and environmental influences. The episode also touches on the broader impact of the trials on American history, linking it to themes of reason vs. fear and the importance of historical awareness in preventing similar miscarriages of justice.

Stacy Schiff on the Salem Witch Trials Mar 20, 2024

Show notes

Pulitzer-prize-winning author Stacy Schiff joins hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack for a dive into the heart of the Salem Witch Trials on this week's episode of Witch Hunt. Celebrated for her book, The Witches: Suspicion, Betrayal, and Hysteria in 1692 Salem, Stacy sheds light on the trials' misunderstandings, explores their actual origins, and spotlights the pivotal individuals involved. Her insights and story telling make history accessible and engaging. Together, they reflect on the timely relevance of lessons learned from the Salem Witch Trials.

StacySchiff.com

Buy Book: The Witches: Suspicion, Betrayal, and Hysteria in 1692 Salem by Stacy Schiff

Petition to recognize those accused of witchcraft in MassachusettsList of those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts

TINAAWAHP

Witch Hunt Book Store

End Witch Hunts Movement

Support Us! Buy Witch Trial Merch!

Support Us! Buy Podcast Merch!

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Newcastle Witch Trials in 15 Minutes with Dr. Katie Liddane Mar 16, 2024

Show notes

This episode of 'Witch Hunt' explores the Newcastle Witch-Hunt, its historical obscurity compared to other trials like the Pendle Witch Trials, and the efforts spearheaded by Dr. Katie Liddane to remember and honor those accused of witchcraft. Dr. Liddane, a recent PhD graduate from Northumbria University with expertise in 17th-century Northeast English witchcraft, discusses her workshop at Newcastle Castle for students, outreach efforts, and the importance of memorialization. The conversation delves into the societal and political influences on witch persecutions, the role of witchfinders, and the larger absence of recognition for victims. Dressed as a 17th-century woman accused of witchcraft, Dr. Liddane leads tours to educate and engage the public. The episode emphasizes the necessity of commemorating the accused to acknowledge past injustices and highlights ongoing projects to achieve this goal, including comparing witchcraft heritage and memorialization efforts in different locations.

Originally published March 13, 2024 as part of "Newcastle Witch Trials with Dr. Katie Liddane." Click here for the full episode.

Newcastle Witch Trials with Dr. Katie Liddane Mar 13, 2024

Show notes

In this week’s captivating episode, we are excited to welcome Dr. Katie Liddane, an expert in the History and Heritage of Witch Hunting in the North East of England. Katie takes us through her research and her dedicated efforts to illuminate the Newcastle Witch Trials. We delve into why the Newcastle Witch-Hunt remains less known compared to events like the Pendle Witch-Hunt and discuss Newcastle Castle's creative approach to engaging the community with workshops on witch trial history. Katie also talks about her active role in creating a memorial for the victims of the Newcastle witch trials, stressing the importance of community involvement and historical fidelity. She sheds light on the necessity of merging historical accuracy with the pop-cultural fascination with witchcraft to fully honor and recognize the humanity of the accused. Join us as we explore an intricate blend of history, memory, and cultural engagement in remembering past witch hunts.

Newcastle Castle

The Newcastle Witches Podcast

Walking with Witches by Lynn Huggins-Cooper

End Witch Hunts

Massachusetts Witch Hunt Justice Project

Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project

Witch Hunt

Witchcraft A History in 13 Minutes with Marion Gibson Mar 11, 2024

Show notes

In this abridged version of our interview with Marion Gibson, we learn about her book, Witchcraft: A History in 13 Trials. She explains how magic and witchcraft have been defined historically. The conversation features a discussion of demonology, specifically Heinrich Kramer's Malleus Maleficarum. This episode closes with a segment about Harmful Practices Related to Accusations of Witchcraft and Ritual Attacks, otherwise known as modern witch hunts.

Originally aired January 17, 2024 as "Marion Gibson on Witchcraft A History in 13 Trials"

15 Minutes on Witchcraft Accusations and International Women's Day Mar 08, 2024

Show notes

"Witch Hunt" podcast delves into the entwined paths of witch-hunting and women's struggles worldwide. Dr. Samantha Spence emphasizes the urgent need for global response, gender equality, healthcare access, and education to combat the grave issue of gender inequality perpetuated by witchcraft accusations. The discussion sheds light on the multifaceted adversities faced by women accused of witchcraft, emphasizing the pivotal role of international collaboration, enhanced data gathering, and rigorous research. The conversation also underscores the critical necessity of female leadership, educational and mentorship programs, and mental health care in dismantling harmful myths and promoting inclusivity. Additionally, the role of international or local policies and the challenges in implementing the UN resolution on the Elimination of Harmful Practices Related to Accusations of Witchcraft provided insight into the varying responses to witchcraft accusations worldwide. The episode ends with a thought-provoking reflection on International Women's Day and the impact of witchcraft accusations as a form of gender-based violence.

Witchcraft Accusations and Gender Inequality with Dr. Samantha Spence Mar 06, 2024

Show notes

In this poignant episode of "Witch Hunt" we're honored to welcome Dr. Samantha Spence back. Merging the commemorative spirits of International Women's Day and Women’s History Month into a deep dive on the entwined paths of witch-hunting and women's struggles worldwide, Dr. Spence brings to light the multifaceted adversities that ensnare women accused of witchcraft - from social ostracization to economic hardships, legal injustices, and educational blockades. These barriers not only underscore their marginalization but also underscore the urgency of a collective global response. Through our discussion, Dr. Spence underscores the pivotal role of international collaboration, enhanced data gathering, and rigorous research in crafting both national and global strategies to counteract these injustices comprehensively. A staunch advocate for gender equality, she points out the transformative power of education for all genders and the undeniable influence of female leadership in dispelling harmful myths, challenging age-old stereotypes, and uplifting communities. Furthermore, Dr. Spence passionately argues for the critical necessity of healthcare access, with a particular emphasis on sexual and reproductive health services, as a cornerstone in safeguarding women's rights and well-being. Join us as we explore these essential themes with Dr. Spence, gaining insights into how solidarity, knowledge, and action can illuminate the darkest corners of witch hunts and pave the way for a just, equitable future that inspires inclusion.

The International Network Against Accusations of Witchcraft and Associated Harmful Practices

United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution 47/8. Elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks

Pan African Parliament Guidelines for Addressing Accusations of Witchcraft and Ritual Attacks

Film: Testimony of Ana

Why Witch Hunts are not just a Dark Chapter from the Past

Storymap explaining the dynamics of sorcery accusation related violence

End Witch Hunts Movement

Petition to recognize those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts

The Astrologer, the Witch, and the Poltergeist: Massachusetts Witch Trials 101 Part 3 Mar 04, 2024

Show notes

What happens when an astrologer, a witch, and a poltergeist walk into a barn in colonial Massachusetts? In this third installment of Massachusetts Witch Trials 101 on Witch Hunt, we delve into the intricate narratives of various Massachusetts witch trials that span from 1657 to 1687. Several significant cases are broken down such as those involving Elizabeth Morse, Mary Webster, and John Godfrey.These cases illustrate the trials of the period and their lasting impact. The hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack also touch on their ancestral connections to these trials and discuss their advocacy work to end present-day witch hunts through their organization.

Originally published February 7, 2024. List of those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts

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