We Came to the Forest

American Scandal’s season named Police Corruption in Baltimore goes into the spring of 2017 where a police corruption scandal shocked the city. At the heart of it was an elite plainclothes unit called the Gun Trace Task Force. It was supposed to be the Baltimore police department’s best of the best – a group of highly decorated detectives who excelled at getting drugs and guns off of city streets. But they operated with little oversight, creating an environment where criminal cops could flourish by falsifying evidence and robbing suspects.Listen on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts: https://wondery.com/links/american-scandal/Wondery+ members can binge the newest season American Scandal before anyone else and completely ad-free. Unlock your FREE trial in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify by clicking the links below, and enjoy early access to your favorite podcasts, exclusive shows, bonus content, and more— all ad-free. Happy listening!Wondery+ on Wondery Wondery+ on Apple PodcastsWondery+ on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Matthew Shaer and producer Tommy Andres sit down with Atlanta organizer Mary Hooks to talk about the future of protest and the impact of the Stop Cop City movement.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As Vienna, Matthew and 60 Forest Defenders await their pending court cases, host Matt Shaer gets closer to uncovering what actually happened during that fatal encounter in the forest.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterFollow We Came to the Forest on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge all episodes ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting www.wondery.com/links/we-came-to-the-forest/ now. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When a music festival is held to honor the legacy of the fallen activist, a splinter group of protestors and police bring everything to the brink of disaster.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the aftermath of the shooting, activists and community members search for answers.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterFollow We Came to the Forest on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge all episodes ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting www.wondery.com/links/we-came-to-the-forest/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Forest Defenders grapple with the aftermath of the ensuing raids. After yet another police operation, news arrives: Police announce that they've killed an unnamed activist. But who?If you or someone you know are in crisis, there is help: you can call, text or chat with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterFollow We Came to the Forest on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can binge all episodes ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting www.wondery.com/links/we-came-to-the-forest/ now. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Matthew Johnson, a young Black preacher, joins the ranks of the Forest Defenders. He finds himself inspired and occasionally frustrated by the efforts. But when police respond with a series of arrests and a massive raid, Matthew decides to up the ante.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Vienna Forrest, a dedicated activist from Nebraska, embarks on a journey to Atlanta to oppose the controversial 'Cop City'. In her quest, she forms a unique bond with the witty activist named Tortuguita, highlighting their shared commitment to the cause. The conversation dives deep into the challenges of community activism, pressing societal issues like race and gentrification, and the emotional rollercoaster of activism amidst turmoil. Vienna also reflects on the power of communal living and the diverse voices within the resistance movement.

A passion-filled protest unfolds in the South River Forest as activists rally against the construction of a contentious police training facility. The narrative reveals the emotional resilience of the community, showcasing their unyielding spirit in the face of adversity. Love and loss intertwine as individuals find purpose and solidarity within the fight. Amidst clashes with law enforcement, the story highlights the profound commitment of those willing to risk everything for their beliefs, illuminating the essence of grassroots activism.