BBG Today

BBG Today – January 2, 2025
Spotlight on The Pioneer Press & Affrilachian Food Renaissance
Episode Overview
  • Podcast Update: We’re learning AI-enhanced production and appreciate your patience as we work toward daily morning releases.
  • Historical Highlight:
    • Introduction to The Pioneer Press, founded by John Robert “J.R.” Clifford—Black Civil War veteran, lawyer, and civil rights pioneer.
    • A look at the January 1915 (Vol. 22, No. 43) front-page editorial, “AS IT APPEARS TO ME,” by Bishop O. P. Fitzgerald, a white Methodist Episcopal bishop with paternalistic 19th-century views on race.
    • The Pioneer Press tagline: “Here shall the Press, the people’s rights, unawed by influence and unbribed by glamour.”
  • Modern Perspective:
    • Clifford’s commitment to open dialogue despite differing views.
    • Affrilachia’s Food Renaissance: Crystal Good’s latest article at BlackByGod.org celebrates Black Appalachian cuisine and the women who inspire her cooking journey.
Key Takeaways
  1. Pioneer Press Significance: A historic Black newspaper that amplified diverse voices and fought for racial justice.
  2. Bishop O. P. Fitzgerald: White Methodist leader whose editorial offers insight into common attitudes of the era toward Black Americans.
  3. Affrilachian Foodways: Highlighting today’s cultural and culinary revival, led by strong community figures and rooted in heritage.
Links & Resources
  • BlackByGod.org: Read “Affrilachia’s Food Renaissance is My Renaissance…” by Crystal Good.
  • J.R. Clifford Info:
    • West Virginia Encyclopedia Entry on J.R. Clifford https://www.jrclifford.org/the-pioneer-press

      Remember to savor the moment. 
Thank you for listening to BBG Today.

What is BBG Today ?

BBG Today is a new daily podcast inspired by the incredible success of the 304 Daily. Our mission is to deliver insightful and meaningful content to our listeners, focusing on the rich heritage and stories that shape Black culture in West Virginia and beyond. Each episode is crafted to provide bite-sized segments that offer inspiration, historical context, and community updates, making it easy for you to stay informed and engaged.

BBG Today is a product of the Black By God media and storytelling company, an organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting Black heritage, culture, and community in West Virginia, Central Appalachia, and beyond. Through various initiatives, including our daily podcast, BBG aims to share inspiring stories, highlight historical significance, and engage with issues relevant to the Black community. Our goal is to uplift voices, foster connections, and create a space where the rich history and contributions of Black individuals are recognized and celebrated. The podcast is hosted by BBG founder and publisher Crystal Good.

visit: BlackByGod.org