Summary

 

In this episode of the We the Community podcast, host Amanda Zahorak speaks with Glennette Tilley Turner, a renowned storyteller and historian focused on the Underground Railroad. They discuss the significance of names, the role of storytellers in communities, and the courage it takes to share uncomfortable truths. Glennette shares her extensive research on the Underground Railroad, the surprises she encountered, and the importance of lesser-known historical figures. The conversation also touches on the significance of Juneteenth, the journey to making it a national holiday, and reflections on the 4th of July. Glennette emphasizes the need for community, collaboration, and the importance of understanding history to navigate current challenges.

 

Purchase Ms. Turner's Books, here!

 

Takeaways

 

-Names tell a story and hold significance.

-Storytellers are essential for sharing knowledge.

-Courage in storytelling often involves uncomfortable truths.

-Researching history can reveal surprising gaps.

-The Underground Railroad had a significant presence in Illinois.

-Juneteenth represents a crucial moment in American history.

-Understanding history helps us navigate current challenges.

-Community collaboration is vital for progress.

-The 4th of July has different meanings for different people.

-Legacy is about striving for justice and love.

 

Chapters

 

00:00 The Significance of Names

06:55 Influences of Family on Storytelling

10:13 The Journey to Authorship

13:28 The Role of Storytellers in Communities

15:34 Courage in Storytelling

16:03 Courageous Characters and Stories

17:56 Lessons from Pivotal Stories

19:56 Researching the Underground Railroad

22:07 The Quest for Knowledge

24:24 Challenges in Researching History

26:58 The Importance of Historical Context

28:57 Pathways of Freedom Seekers

32:33 Advice for Today's Generation

35:58 Understanding Chicago's Underground Railroad History

39:20 The Legacy of Freedom and Community

42:34 The Legacy of Housing Ordinances

44:40 Historical Figures in African American History

46:51 Indigenous Peoples and the Underground Railroad

49:23 Harriet Tubman's Bravery and Stories

52:22 The Emancipation Proclamation and Its Delays

54:33 The Journey to Juneteenth as a National Holiday

56:50 Understanding the Significance of Juneteenth

57:56 Complex Feelings Around the 4th of July

59:45 Reflections on Justice and Hope

01:00:39 Advice for Future Generations

01:02:30 The Arc of Justice in American History

01:04:11 Personal Stories of Leadership and Legacy

01:07:41 Upcoming Underground Railroad Tours

01:10:06 Introduction to We The Community Podcast