Stone Written

S1E5: The Things We Cannot Say

In this episode, Dr. Rhon takes a deep dive into a broader American historical narrative and UNC-Chapel Hill's place within it. She considers: are we returning to "The Great Resegregation"?  
This episode confronts the realities of historical regression; its chilling effects on the learning spaces of higher education; and the long-term impact on academia’s role as a place for critical thought. Dr. Rhon invites a frank but necessary conversation about the future of higher education. In the end, the things we cannot say may just be what needs to be said.  
Sources:  
Adam Serwer, “The Great Resegregation.” The Atlantic. February 22, 2025.
Alice Walker, In Search of Our Mother’s Gardens: Womanist Prose (Mariner Books [reprint edition], 2003).  
Anthea Butler, White Evangelical Racism: The Politics of Morality in America (UNC Press [second edition], 2024). 
Origin, directed by Ava DuVernay (Array Filmworks, 2023). Based on Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson (Random House, 2020).  
“Paving the Way: Carolina’s Black Pioneers.” 
J. Brian Charles, “The Evolution of DEI." The Chronicle of Higher Education (June 23, 2023.) 

S1E4: History's Justice with Patricia Timmons-Goodson

In this engaging episode of Stone Written, Dr. Rhon sits down with the Honorable Dean Patricia Timmons-Goodson to explore her inspiring journey through a remarkable public service career. As one of the first African-American women on North Carolina's Supreme Court, Dean Timmons-Goodson shares her profound insights into justice, history, and the importance of remaining grounded through life's challenges.
From her humble beginnings in Florence, South Carolina, to her leadership role as Dean of North Carolina Central University School of Law, Dean Timmons-Goodson's journey is a testament to resilience and courage. The conversation delves into the power of history in shaping innovative legal minds and the responsibility of educating the next generation of practice-ready lawyers.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the values of service, accountability, and historical awareness as foundational to personal and communal progress. With shared stories of overcoming adversity and honoring an ever-important past, Dr. Rhon and Dean Timmons-Goodson inspire us to continue the journey towards a brighter, justice-filled future.
Sources: 
North Carolina Central University School of Law
Project Uplift -UNC-Chapel Hill
Harvey Gantt & Jesse Helms, 1996 US Senate Election in NC
The Sonja Haynes Stone Center 
Production Assistants: Melanie Cabrero & Nyah Johnson
 

S1E3: Ashes to Ashes

"What do you do when you feel as if the world is on fire?" 
Join Dr. Rhon as she engages this idea while reflecting on a viral essay she penned in 2016 titled "An Open Letter to White Liberal Feminists." The piece, initially published during the aftermath of Donald Trump's first election, resonated deeply, sparking a conversation on race, feminism, and politics.
In this episode, Dr. Rhon draws parallels between the past and the present, in light of Trump's re-election in 2024. She explores some shifts in voter dynamics, the persistent voter gender gap, and an evolving political landscape. With personal anecdotes and a profound sense of urgency, she delves into the implications of these events on marginalized communities, particularly Black Americans.
Dr. Rhon offers strategies for navigating this complex time, and she encourages listeners to grieve, rest, and find strength in collective action. As the world for some feels ablaze, this episode serves as both a call to action and a beacon of hope for those seeking change.
 
Sources:  
https://www.aaihs.org/an-open-letter-to-white-liberal-feminists/ 
https://cawp.rutgers.edu/sites/default/files/resources/ggpresvote.pdf 
https://www.washingtonpost.com/elections/interactive/2024/exit-polls-2024-election/ 
https://www.electproject.org/election-data/voter-turnout-data 
Black Writers Read  Well-Read Black Girl and The Black Studies podcasts. 
Grief'd Up Podcast with Rebecca Feinglos 

S1E2: Beyond Affinity with Dr. Koritha Mitchell

Welcome to "Stone Written," hosted by Dr. Rhon. In this episode, Dr. Rhon is joined by Dr. Koritha Mitchell, an esteemed professor of English at Boston University, award-winning author, and cultural critic. Together, they delve into Dr. Mitchell's groundbreaking work on the intersection of culture and performance, focusing on how Black communities thrive amidst adversity. The conversation covers the importance of recognizing and embracing the concept of affinity, particularly in academic and cultural spaces, and challenges the notion of neutrality in race and identity discussions.
Drawing on her recent piece for Time magazine, Dr. Mitchell shares insights on the significance of Kamala Harris's candidacy and the broader implications for identity politics in America. The episode also explores the historical context of the Combahee River Collective and its influence on contemporary discussions around identity and power dynamics.
Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and encourages a deeper understanding of how identity shapes our interactions and societal structures. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in culture, history, and legacy.
Sources:
Koritha Mitchell “Identity Groups are Mobilizing for Kamala Harris. That Shows Progress.” Time. July 29, 2024. 
Combahee River Collective (via Wikipedia)
Production Assistant: Melanie Cabrero

S1E1: Happy Anniversary

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Stone Written, the official podcast of the Sonya Haynes Stone Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Hosted by Dr. LeRhonda Manigault-Bryant, also known as Dr. Rhon, this episode introduces listeners to the rich history, mission, and dynamic programs of the Stone Center.
Dr. Rhon, a professor of African, African American, and Diaspora Studies, provides an in-depth look at the Center's evolution from its modest beginnings to its current status as a hub for research, scholarship, and cultural programming. Learn about the Center's three pillars: Arts and Culture, Service and Outreach, and Research and Scholarship, and discover the impactful initiatives like the Institute of African American Research and the Moore Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program.
This episode also offers a preview of the exciting guests and topics lined up for the season, featuring prominent scholars, activists, artists, and community leaders who will share their insights on Black life and culture. From historical explorations to contemporary issues, Stone Written promises to be a biweekly educational journey celebrating the resilience and brilliance of Black communities.
Join us as we navigate the rich tapestry of Black experience, bringing the Stone Center's vibrant programming and events directly to you. Welcome to Stone Written.

Welcome to Stone Written

Welcome to Stone Written, the official podcast of the Sonja Haynes Stone Center at UNC-Chapel Hill. Hosted by Dr. Rhon Manigault-Bryant (@DoctorRMB)