This International Women’s Day, we revisit the story of Arminda de Jesus, a 32-year-old mother accused of witchcraft in 1933 Portugal. Through our interview with Dr. Inês Tadeu from the University of Madeira, we present the historical facts of this little-known case from the village of Soalhães. Dr. Tadeu’s research through trial records and newspaper accounts provides context for understanding how witchcraft accusations persisted into the 20th century. Arminda’s case, occurring just 22 years after the first International Women’s Day, illustrates the ongoing threat faced by women accused of witchcraft globally.
Content warning: Contains descriptions of violence.
Join us for an informative International Women’s Day 2025 episode where we explore this year’s theme: “Accelerate Action.” We’re shining a light on a global crisis often hidden from headlines – women and girls being accused of witchcraft, subjected to violence, exiled from their communities, and even killed.
Discover how International Women’s Day initiatives have already made tangible progress in combating these human rights violations. Since launching our podcast in 2022, we’ve covered heartbreaking realities affecting women worldwide, and today we’ll connect the core meaning of International Women’s Day directly to ongoing advocacy efforts against modern witchcraft accusations.
This episode provides essential information to help you connect and amplify your voice for change. Join us to discover the power of collective action and how International Women’s Day is still accelerating progress for vulnerable women across the globe.
In this poignant episode of “Witch Hunt” we’re honored to welcome Dr. Samantha Spence back. Merging the commemorative spirits of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month into a deep dive on the entwined paths of witch-hunting and women’s struggles worldwide, Dr. Spence brings to light the multifaceted adversities that ensnare women accused of witchcraft – from social ostracization to economic hardships, legal injustices, and educational blockades. These barriers not only underscore their marginalization but also underscore the urgency of a collective global response. Through our discussion, Dr. Spence underscores the pivotal role of international collaboration, enhanced data gathering, and rigorous research in crafting both national and global strategies to counteract these injustices comprehensively. A staunch advocate for gender equality, she points out the transformative power of education for all genders and the undeniable influence of female leadership in dispelling harmful myths, challenging age-old stereotypes, and uplifting communities. Furthermore, Dr. Spence passionately argues for the critical necessity of healthcare access, with a particular emphasis on sexual and reproductive health services, as a cornerstone in safeguarding women’s rights and well-being. Join us as we explore these essential themes with Dr. Spence, gaining insights into how solidarity, knowledge, and action can illuminate the darkest corners of witch hunts and pave the way for a just, equitable future that inspires inclusion.
To honor Women’s History Month and March 8, International Women’s Day we have created a special episode with Colorado State University’s Dr. Ann Little who specializes in the history of colonial America, with special emphasis on the history of women, gender and sexuality. She is a professor, author and expert consultant for Who Do You Think You Are? We discuss past and persisting mentalities toward and in women including their fertility and sexuality power in society. What is the impact of this narrative on historic witch trials and in modern attitudes influencing women’s rights?