S2 Ep1: Unveiling the Past: Antonia Hylton on Madness & Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum

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January 30, 2025 • 36 mins

Emmy and Peabody award winning author, Antonia Hylton, whose groundbreaking book, Madness: Race & Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum, uncovers the deep-seated injustices of Crownsville State Hospital, originally known as the Hospital for the Negro Insane of Maryland. Through the experiences of patients, doctors, nurses and community members, Hylton uses Crownsville’s history to expose the deep seated racism, ableism, and misogyny inherent in psychiatry’s roots in the United states, while also showing the defiance, resistance and re-imaginings of Black advocates and caretakers. In our discussion, we delve into this profound and troubling legacy and how Crownsville’s history reflects the current reality of mental health care and prison systems today. Join us as we explore these critical narratives and remix Black healing.

Guest Info:

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.css-14f5ked{margin:0;word-break:break-word;display:-webkit-box;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;box-orient:vertical;-webkit-line-clamp:2;overflow:hidden;}S2 Ep1: Unveiling the Past: Antonia Hylton on Madness & Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum