This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, a distinguished professor at Vanderbilt University and a passionate advocate for social justice. They dive into the current political climate in America, addressing the rising tide of anti-democratic movements and the resurgence of fascist ideologies. Dr. Dyson emphasizes that these challenges, though significant, are not new, especially for Black Americans who have historically fought for justice and equality.

The episode examines the role of race in contemporary politics, highlighting how xenophobia and White Christian Nationalism intersect with the actions of the current administration. Dr. Dyson underscores the importance of faith communities rising up and embodying the principles of love and liberation, urging them to speak out against injustice and advocate for the vulnerable.

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Dyson highlights the necessity of moral clarity and encourages listeners to actively participate in the democratic process through voting and local governance. He also delivers a powerful call to action, urging listeners to voice their opposition to evil (“VOTE”) and recognize the ongoing struggle for justice as a vital component of a functioning democracy. His words serve as a timely reminder of the collective responsibility to create a more equitable society.

White Christian nationalism makes one thing clear that we should not be mistaken about. The real religion is whiteness, not Christianity. White Christian Nationalism should be WHITE Christian Nationalism, or WHITE Christian NATIONALISM, right? That's where the emphasis is. This is a nationalist project motivated by a xenophobic passion, a protectionist concept of America, and trying to have a society that fails to make a distinction between patriotism and nationalism.

Rev. Dr. Michael Eric Dyson is a renowned scholar, author, and public intellectual whose work sits at the intersection of race, politics, and culture. A professor at prestigious institutions like Georgetown and Vanderbilt, he has spent decades examining the complexities of racial justice, the power of rhetoric, and the role of faith in social movements. As an ordained minister and cultural critic, he brings a unique perspective to discussions on spiritual resistance and activism.

At Venderbilt, Dr. Dyson holds the Centennial Chair and serves as University Distinguished Professor of African American and Diaspora Studies in the College of Arts and Science, and University Distinguished Professor of Ethics and Society in the Divinity School. He's the author of many influential books like Tears We Cannot Stop: A Sermon to White America and Unequal: A Story of America. His most recent is Represent: The Unfinished Fight for the Vote.

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