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. 

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

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

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Massachusetts Witch Hunt Justice Project

Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project

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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"

"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.

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  

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

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

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.

This episode of the Witch Hunt podcast, featuring human rights lawyer Preethi Lolaksha Nagaveni, focuses on her extensive research on caste-based discrimination and untouchability in India. The conversation delves into the urgent need for societal transformation and accountability to eliminate harmful practices. The exchange also highlights the brutal realities faced by Dalit women, explore historical background, and emphasize the necessity for stringent laws to combat these entrenched issues. The episode underlines the importance of Babasaheb Ambedkar's advocacy for Dalit rights and his influence in shaping the Indian Constitution. Additionally, it unveils the challenges faced by Dalit children in accessing quality education and the inadequacies in enforcing existing laws against witchcraft accusations and related atrocities. The necessity for comprehensive education, sensitization of authorities, and the formulation of stringent laws to protect the dignity of Dalit women is underscored throughout the interaction.

In this episode of Witch Hunt, hosts Josh Hutchinson and Sarah Jack explore the troubling issue of gender-based violence in India, including witch hunts, with expert Neelesh Singh from India's National Rural Livelihood Mission. Singh focuses on gender issues and social inclusion, discussing the prevalent issues of witch hunting. Singh emphasizes the importance of collective action by women's collectives, sensitizing them to these issues and empowering them to support their fellow members. A case of witch-branding is discussed, portraying the real-life horrors these women face and detailing how theatre training and ongoing involvement can help them heal and raise awareness in their communities. The episode concludes with the positive impact of a public display of support for a victimized woman, which led to a significant signature campaign prompting the local chief minister to issue a stand against witch-branding and -hunting in the state.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Presentation

00:58 Understanding Gender-Based Violence in India

02:14 The Role of Women Collectives in Tackling Gender-Based Violence

03:39 Real-Life Stories of Witch-Branding and Collective Action

07:31 The Power of Theater in Healing and Awareness

11:13 Collective Action and Public Support Against Witch-Branding

13:35 The Impact of Collective Action and Future Strategies

14:37 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of Witch Hunt, we dive into an enlightening conversation with Neelesh Singh, a champion for social inclusion and gender equality with India's National Rural Livelihood Mission. Neelesh emphasizes the urgent imperative to confront and mitigate gender-based violence at every stage of life, highlighting the importance of comprehensive strategies that protect and empower individuals from infancy through to old age.From combating infanticide to empowering widow survivors of witchcraft allegations, Neelesh's work spans a broad spectrum of initiatives aimed at fostering resilience, healing, and collective empowerment among women in rural India. Learn about therapeutic approaches including art therapy for expression and healing, the formation of women's collectives to combat domestic violence, and the development of strategies for prevention, risk mitigation, and redressal of gender-based violence. Neelesh also discusses the importance of survivor networks in influencing policy and media, underscoring the critical role of the state in acknowledging and combating these practices. Join us for a profound discussion on the journey towards gender equity and the end of witch hunts for alleged witches in India.

Witch Hunts in Ghana & India by John Azumah & Neelesh Singh 10.13.21

Streethttps://youtu.be/gjqaLyt5d6w?si=94JqfPJQYMM1b6ys Play on Witch Hunting by I-CARD

Film: Testimony of Ana

End Witch Hunts

Stop Witchcraft Accusations and Trial by Ordeal in Guinea Bissau by Leo Igwe

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