May 20, 1775, is a date you may recognize from the North Carolina state flag. It represents what was supposedly the first declaration of independence made by any of the 13 colonies involved in the American Revolution. That date was added more than a century ago, but its authenticity was first contested by Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.

A budget proposal passed by the state senate would end the state-funded commission, which has helped exonerate 16 people since 2007. The commission is the only state-backed innocence commission in the U.S., though representatives in the state of Texas are considering creating one.

Tonya Council, granddaughter of the late culinary legend Mildred “Mama Dip” Council, has opened her very own Southern-style eatery, Tonya’s Cafe. Located next to Tonya’s Cookies & Bake Shop in Chapel Hill, the cafe is the latest in Council’s string of culinary ventures. Due South’s Leoneda Inge speaks with Council about Tonya’s Cafe, Southern food and her grandmother’s influence.  

Guests

Scott Syfert, author of The First American Declaration of Independence? The Disputed History of the Mecklenburg Declaration of May 20, 1775.

Laura Pierro, Executive Director of the NC Innocence Inquiry Commission

Catherine Matoian, Assistant Director of the NC Innocence Inquiry Commission

Michael Hewlett, reporter with The Assembly. He’s covered the justice system for years.

Tonya Council, chef, baker, Owner of Tonya’s Cookies & Bakeshop, Tonya’s Cafe, NC Made, and Sweet Tea & Cornbread