The TKC Saturday Night Podcast: The search for Shauntay and the runaway slave theme

I'm no expert, but recently I've been reminded that there is a bit of a historical archetype when it comes to Black people on the run in this country.

From The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn to the current search for Shauntay Henderson that is set to air on America's Most Wanted any minute now . . . There seems to be a theme that has developed over centuries regarding Black people on the run. Of course, the details, their alleged innocence and/or guilt have always made for good stories, causes and political issues BUT the fact remains . . . Guilty or Innocent . . . Over the course of this country's history . . . The tales of Black people running from the authorities have captivated this country's imagination and they have also inspired tonight's podcast. These are the most popular songs that come to mind when I think about Shauntay on the run and hope that the search comes to an amicable resolution.



Of course a female fugitive evokes an even greater level of interest but from what I've read regarding Shauntay . . . She doesn't seem very lady like.



But, as I noted previously, cops and robbers movies have become ingrained in the culture and songs about folks on the run have always been popular.



At first I didn't want to include 100 Miles and Runnin' on tonight's podcast because it reminds me of what a stupid kid I was . . . But thinking back, what I didn't realize is that the music that mesmerized me was nothing more than a show . . . Once again I was fooled into thinking that hard lyrics and tough poses translated into power. Sadly, only years later did I realize that all of my rap heroes were simply performers and their tall tales should have simply been taken in stride and not emulated . . . Not that I ever got in much trouble but I sure did waste far too much money on entertainment and stupid clothing.



Anyway, the reality is that life on the run isn't one bit glamorous if prison memoirs and second hand accounts are in the least bit accurate. So often there's an attempt to glamorize any tense situation as long as it's far away . . . It seems that everything from war to criminal activity has become a spectator sport. In someways that's helpful, but I'm sure for the most part it's counter productive.

Still, tonight Shauntay Henderson's case goes national and I'm not ashamed to note that I've been more than a little interested in the outcome. Sooner or later I'm sure KC's bald, broad fugitive will realize that it's time to stop running, there are even people who have offered to help her surrender but certainly it's clear that the chase is about to come to an end.

Update: They caught Shauntay . . . Only minutes before the America's Most Wanted Episode featuring her was even aired but not before I posted this podcast.

You're welcome.