EP 7 Ida Gray - Hands That Healed | Women and Resistance

EP 7 Ida Gray - Hands That Healed | Women and Resistance

In this episode of Women and Resistance, hosts @Aya Fubara Eneli, Esq., and Adesoji Iginla sit down with the embodied voice of Dr Ida Gray Nelson Rollins, the first African American woman to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in the United States, and the first Black dentist of any gender to practice in Chicago. We explore the inspiring life of Dr Ida Gray, the first African American woman dentist, highlighting her journey from adversity to professional excellence and her impact on the community. She was an orphaned infant handed to an aunt who couldn’t read her own name.  We trace her path from a working-class childhood in Reconstruction-era Cincinnati. We examine her legacy and connect her story to Idlewild, Michigan’s “Black Eden,” the Black women’s club movement, and the oral health disparities that persist in Black communities today. Takeaways *Your beginnings do not determine your destiny. *Excellence in your work can open doors regardless of race or gender. *Mentoring others is a responsibility and a legacy. *Resilience and focus are key to overcoming societal barriers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Women and Resistance 01:13 Ida Gray: A Journey of Resilience 03:21 Early Life and Challenges 07:59 The Role of Community and Education 13:50 Path to Dentistry: Overcoming Barriers 20:11 Breaking Ground in Dentistry 22:36 Education and Training in Dentistry 23:28 The Journey to Becoming a Dentist 25:27 Breaking Barriers in Dentistry 26:35 Establishing a Practice in Cincinnati 29:00 Marriage and Relocation to Chicago 31:31 Building a New Reputation in Chicago 35:03 Navigating Grief and New Beginnings 36:29 The Joys of Idlewild, Michigan 37:47 Legacy and Reflection 40:37 Mentorship and Community Building Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2448293/fan_mail/new] Welcome  to Women and Resistance, a powerful podcast where we honour the courage, resilience, and revolutionary spirit of women across the globe. Hosted by Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla... You're listening to Women and Resistance with Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla—where we honour the voices of women who have shaped history through courage and defiance...Now, back to the conversation. That’s it for this episode of Women and Resistance. Thank you for joining us in amplifying the voices of women who challenge injustice and change the course of history. Be sure to subscribe, share, and continue the conversation. Together We Honour the past, act in the present, and shape the future. Until next time, stay inspired and stay in resistance!

EP 6 Dada Masiti - From Bondage into Sainthood | Women And Resistance

Abducted as a teenager, held in conditions her own poetry calls slavery for a decade, and rescued by a cousin who crossed the Indian Ocean to find her. A century later, she was East Africa's most revered female Islamic scholar, and the reason Qur'an schools in her hometown of Barawa are still run by women today. In this episode of Women and Resistance, hosts Aya Fubara Eneli, Esq., and Adesoji Iginla travel to the Benadir coast of southern Somalia to tell the story of Dada Masiti. Aya Fubara Eneli, Esq., embodying Dada Masiti, explores the life and legacy of a remarkable woman from the 19th century. Dada Masiti recounts her journey from a life of privilege in Barawa to a decade of captivity, highlighting the complexities of lineage, gender, and the historical context of the Indian Ocean slave trade. Through her narrative, she emphasises the importance of community, kinship, and spiritual growth, ultimately emerging as a leader and poet who defied societal expectations. In this conversation, Aya, as Dada Masiti, discusses the importance of accessibility in education, particularly for women in religious studies. She reflects on her role in promoting cultural memory through poetry and the significance of death in her community. Aya emphasises the need for inward purification and the legacy of Sufi traditions in Somalia, while also addressing the impact of colonial history on her homeland. She highlights the ongoing struggles for women's rights and self-determination, advocating for a collective understanding of history that incorporates women's voices. Takeaways *Dada Masiti's life reflects the struggles and resilience of women in history. *Oral traditions play a crucial role in preserving cultural narratives. *Barawa was a significant centre of trade and Islamic learning. *Lineage does not guarantee protection for women in patriarchal societies. *Marriage can lead to unexpected and harsh realities, as experienced by Dada Masiti. *The Indian Ocean slave trade is often overlooked in historical discussions. *Zanzibar served as a critical location for the slave trade. *Kinship and community support are vital for survival and recovery. *Spiritual growth can lead to empowerment and leadership roles for women. *Dada Masiti's poetry was a means of expressing her experiences and insights. *Teaching should be accessible to all, a radical act. *Women have historically been excluded from formal religious education. *Cultural memory is preserved through poetry and oral traditions. *Death should be viewed as a reunion, not a loss. *Inward purification is essential for personal and communal healing. *Somalia's rich history is often overshadowed by conflict and colonial narratives. *Cultural resilience is vital in the face of adversity. *Women's rights movements are gaining momentum in Somalia. *Self-determination is a personal choice, not defined by societal norms. *Poetry remains relevant in addressing contemporary issues. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Women in Resistance 01:05 The Life of Dada Masiti 04:27 The Impact of Oral Tradition 09:25 Barawa: A Historical Overview 14:31 The Complexity of Lineage and Gender 19:03 Marriage and Captivity 23:39 The Indian Ocean Slave Trade 27:42 Zanzibar: A Place of Captivity 29:11 Rescue and Kinship 32:03 Return to Barawa and Community Acceptance 34:28 Spiritual Growth and Leadership 39:07 Legacy and Empowerment 41:18 Radical Accessibility in Teaching 42:07 The Role of Women in Religious Education 43:27 Cultural Memory and Poetry 44:37 Consolation Through Poetry 46:45 The Inward Path of Purification 48:52 The Legacy of Sufi Tradition 50:47 Somalia's Historical Narrative 52:55 Colonial Impact on Barawa 55:58 Cultural Resilience Amidst Conflict 58:36 The Fight for Women's Rights 61:54 Self-Determination and Personal Choice 64:31 The Relevance of Poetry Today 69:30 Cultural Respect and Understanding Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2448293/fan_mail/new] Welcome  to Women and Resistance, a powerful podcast where we honour the courage, resilience, and revolutionary spirit of women across the globe. Hosted by Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla... You're listening to Women and Resistance with Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla—where we honour the voices of women who have shaped history through courage and defiance...Now, back to the conversation. That’s it for this episode of Women and Resistance. Thank you for joining us in amplifying the voices of women who challenge injustice and change the course of history. Be sure to subscribe, share, and continue the conversation. Together We Honour the past, act in the present, and shape the future. Until next time, stay inspired and stay in resistance!

EP 5 Josephine Baker - The Black Pearl Who Refused to Bow | Women And Resistance

This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Josephine Baker, exploring her journey from a challenging upbringing in St. Louis to becoming a cultural icon in France. The discussion highlights her struggles with racism, her reinventions, and her impact on art and activism. Baker's story is a testament to resilience, identity, and the complexities of fame, as she navigated societal expectations and used her platform for political engagement. In this conversation, Josephine Baker reflects on her extraordinary life, from her groundbreaking return to Broadway as the first black woman billed above the title to her significant role as a spy during World War II. She discusses her experiences in France, her post-war humanitarian efforts, and the challenges of raising a diverse family. Baker also addresses controversies surrounding her critiques of societal issues and her legacy as a cultural icon. Her story is one of resilience, identity, and the pursuit of freedom. Aya and Adesoji unpack all of this through an Afrocentric and resistance-centred lens — exploring the diaspora politics, colonial gaze, and radical self-determination at the heart of Baker's extraordinary life. Takeaways *Josephine Baker's life exemplifies the struggle for liberation and identity. *She faced significant racism and discrimination throughout her life. *Baker's journey from St. Louis to Paris marked her rise to fame. *Her performances challenged societal norms and expectations. *Baker's legacy continues to inspire discussions on race and identity. *She was a pioneer in using her art for political engagement. *Baker's reinventions reflect the complexities of her identity. *Her story highlights the intersection of art and activism. *Baker's influence extends beyond her lifetime, impacting future generations. *The duality of her fame reveals the challenges faced by black artists. *Josephine Baker was the first black woman on a major Broadway marquee. *She renounced her US citizenship to live in France. *Baker served as a sub-lieutenant in the French Air Force intelligence during WWII. *She faced numerous personal tragedies, including multiple miscarriages. *Baker sold her jewellery to support starving people after the war. *She aimed to create a model of brotherhood with her Rainbow Tribe. *Baker's critiques of societal issues led to accusations of anti-Semitism. *She spoke at the March on Washington before Dr Martin Luther King. *Baker was honoured with a military funeral in France. *She became the first black woman buried among France's immortals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Josephine Baker's Legacy 03:03 Josephine Baker: The Artist and Her Journey 05:58 Reinvention and Identity 09:04 Early Life and Struggles 11:58 The Impact of Racism and Violence 15:08 The Move to France and Fame 17:52 The Rise to Stardom 21:05 Cultural Symbolism and Identity 24:11 The Complexity of Fame 26:53 Josephine Baker's Influence and Legacy 30:07 Reflections on Race and Identity 32:55 The Duality of Fame and Struggle 36:03 Josephine Baker's Political Engagement 39:07 The Legacy of Josephine Baker 41:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 43:53 The Return to America and Disillusionment 46:00 Life in France and Espionage During WWII 51:03 The Role of a Spy and Contributions to the Resistance 54:08 Post-War Life and Humanitarian Efforts 58:01 The Rainbow Tribe and Family Dynamics 60:54 Controversies and Critiques 62:55 Legacy and Recognition 66:12 Reflections on Life and Identity Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2448293/fan_mail/new] Welcome  to Women and Resistance, a powerful podcast where we honour the courage, resilience, and revolutionary spirit of women across the globe. Hosted by Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla... You're listening to Women and Resistance with Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla—where we honour the voices of women who have shaped history through courage and defiance...Now, back to the conversation. That’s it for this episode of Women and Resistance. Thank you for joining us in amplifying the voices of women who challenge injustice and change the course of history. Be sure to subscribe, share, and continue the conversation. Together We Honour the past, act in the present, and shape the future. Until next time, stay inspired and stay in resistance!

EP 4 Mary Fields - Freedom Personified | Women And Resistance

This episode features the inspiring story of Mary Fields, also known as Stagecoach Mary, an African American woman born enslaved who became a legendary mail carrier in Montana. She defied racial and gender barriers, showcasing resilience, loyalty, and strength in the face of adversity. Takeaways *Mary Fields' early life and slavery in Tennessee *Her journey to Montana and life on the frontier *Her role as the first African American woman mail carrier *Her relationships with Native Americans and white communities *Her defiance of gender and racial norms Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mary Fields 01:11 Mary Fields: A Life of Resilience 03:34 From Enslavement to Freedom 08:15 Friendship Across Boundaries 13:00 Challenges in the Wild West 16:23 Becoming Stagecoach Mary 24:16 Trailblazing as a Mail Carrier 26:24 The Commitment to Delivering Mail 28:11 The Importance of Community and Connection 29:43 Resilience and Overcoming Adversity 30:38 Building a Life and Community 32:32 Reflections on Identity and Humanity 34:16 Legacy and Impact 40:21 Understanding Historical Contexts 44:06 The Complexity of Freedom and Oppression 47:32 Empowering Future Generations Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2448293/fan_mail/new] Welcome  to Women and Resistance, a powerful podcast where we honour the courage, resilience, and revolutionary spirit of women across the globe. Hosted by Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla... You're listening to Women and Resistance with Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla—where we honour the voices of women who have shaped history through courage and defiance...Now, back to the conversation. That’s it for this episode of Women and Resistance. Thank you for joining us in amplifying the voices of women who challenge injustice and change the course of history. Be sure to subscribe, share, and continue the conversation. Together We Honour the past, act in the present, and shape the future. Until next time, stay inspired and stay in resistance!

EP 3 Elizabeth of Tooro - The Odyssey of a Princess | Women And Resistance

She was a princess, a Cambridge-trained lawyer, the first Black woman on the pages of Harper's Bazaar, a foreign minister under one of Africa's most feared dictators — and she said NO when that dictator demanded she marry him. This week on Women and Resistance, we tell the full, extraordinary, and largely untold story of Princess Elizabeth Bagaaya Akiiki of Tooro. Born in 1936 into the ancient Tooro Kingdom of what is now Uganda, Princess Elizabeth navigated colonial education systems, broke racial barriers at Cambridge and Gray's Inn, survived Idi Amin's regime, fled into exile disguised as a village girl, won landmark libel cases in the British press, walked the runways of New York and London as one of the world's first Black supermodels, and returned home to serve her continent as a diplomat and guardian of her people's culture. Her life is not just a biography — it is a thesis on what African women's resistance looks like across decades of colonial erasure, post-independence political upheaval, patriarchal power, and the relentless weaponisation of beauty against Black excellence. This in-depth conversation with Elizabeth of Toro, a Ugandan princess, lawyer, and diplomat, shares her extraordinary life story, cultural heritage, and insights on African history, colonialism, and resilience. Takeaways *History of Toro Kingdom and African kingdoms *Colonialism and its impact on Africa *The role of women in African leadership and resistance *Personal journey of Elizabeth of Toro from princess to diplomat *Cultural preservation and revival in Africa Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Princess Elizabeth of Toro 01:39 Growing Up in the Kingdom of Toro 04:28 Cultural Heritage and Identity 08:24 Education and Challenges Abroad 13:44 Historical Context of the Kingdom of Toro 19:30 Colonial Influences and Transformations 28:21 The Role of Women in Leadership 35:16 Reflections on Independence and Legacy 36:19 The Impact of Colonialism on Traditional Societies 38:45 Navigating Exile and Identity 41:47 Modelling as a Means of Survival 43:47 The Rise and Fall of Political Power 47:15 The Role of Women in Politics 52:34 Facing Adversity and Resilience 57:27 Love and Loss in Turbulent Times 01:00:49 Restoration and Legacy 01:03:14 Lessons in Identity and Courage Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2448293/fan_mail/new] Welcome  to Women and Resistance, a powerful podcast where we honour the courage, resilience, and revolutionary spirit of women across the globe. Hosted by Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla... You're listening to Women and Resistance with Aya Fubara Eneli Esq and Adesoji Iginla—where we honour the voices of women who have shaped history through courage and defiance...Now, back to the conversation. That’s it for this episode of Women and Resistance. Thank you for joining us in amplifying the voices of women who challenge injustice and change the course of history. Be sure to subscribe, share, and continue the conversation. Together We Honour the past, act in the present, and shape the future. Until next time, stay inspired and stay in resistance!