Episode #39 with Garrison Hayes

"I'm not really here to have a conversation about cancel culture, but I do think that we have to be as gracious and merciful as possible when possible, and sometimes that's missing from the conversation, and I hope to introduce that, while also still being clear that "no, no: this is bad; this is wrong", but introducing as well a certain sense of healing.  And I tie that to the gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. That's where I kinda root that idea and commitment ."

On today's episode, we go across the pond and commemorate American Black History Month with anti-racism activist and history buff Garrison Hayes.  We discuss topics ranging from the lasting ramifications of the  Trans-atlantic slave trade, religion, and inter-generational trauma.  We examine The Southern Strategy and Emancipation proclamation.  We look at the importance of key historical dates, including the importance of 1663 in African-American history.  Garrison also explains to me what he means when he says that 'America loves Martin Luther King as an Idea'.  We talk about Black History Month and the importance of its relevence now more than ever;  Black Trauma, Black Lives Matter, the discourse on black identity and the issues of tokenism.  We also chat about ancestry, his profound love for Atlanta, and of course, the quotes that inspire him.

Garrison is a husband, content creator and DEI facilitator whose work exists at the intersection of antiracism, faith and storytelling. He is an Atlanta, GA native and enjoys cheering on his Atlanta Hawks, listening to a great podcast and spending time exploring new places with his lovely wife, Simone.

Thanks for listening to the episode. I'd like to thank my guest for their time, insight and being a great sport!

I would also like to thank my producer, Ashanti Omkar, for all her hard work.

If you'd like to be a guest, drop me a line at theswingingpalmtree@gmail.com.

Keep Rising & Thriving. Aṣẹ!