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336: What if you escaped a polygamous cult?
Oct 22, 2024
Pamela Jones, an author, speaker, and coach, shares her harrowing story of escaping the Church of the Firstborn, a polygamous cult. She recounts chilling childhood experiences marked by fear and violence, revealing the oppressive dynamics within polygamous marriages. Pamela details the dangerous preparation for her daring escape, highlighting the emotional and legal hurdles. Her journey of resilience continues as she rebuilds her life in Utah, transforming her struggles into empowerment while advocating for others seeking freedom from similar situations.
01:00:48
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Quick takeaways
- The historical context of polygamy within the Church of the Firstborn reveals a complex web of fear, secrecy, and societal rejection.
- Internal conflicts among church leaders and the introduction of violent practices like blood atonement fostered a culture of oppression and trauma.
Deep dives
Historical Roots of Polygamy
Polygamy's historical context stems from Joseph Smith's revelations within the Mormon faith, promoting plural marriage for large families. After Smith's death, those practicing polygamy faced persecution, leading some excommunicated members to flee to Mexico to continue this lifestyle. Settling in colonies, such as the one founded by the narrator's grandfather in Dublan, these families maintained their beliefs in secrecy while facing societal rejection in their new homes. The narrator's father, having grown up in this complex environment, experienced significant emotional turmoil due to the stigma associated with being a 'plague child' of a polygamist family.
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