Black churches became centers of political engagement during the 19th century when Black Christians determined to achieve the full benefits of citizenship in U.S. society, scholar Nicole Myers Turner said during a Baptist History and Heritage Society webinar. Racial politics…
Video explores influence of race, ethnicity and religion in shaping American immigration policies
Kathryn Freeman, a writer, speaker and former public policy director for the Texas Baptists Christian Life Commission, said she understands why some Americans are uncomfortable with immigration. “It’s hard. I get it. I’m from Texas. I want to know what…
Are you sure that all lives matter?
I have struggled for the past several years with understanding how so many Christians can support politicians and preachers with glaring, public moral failings. I’ve been discipled in Christian values my entire life, and what I observe with many Christians…
Why vote to fund something you won’t ever use?
Last fall, my hometown of Austin, Texas, put a monumental public transportation bond question on the ballot: light rail, tunnels underneath downtown, electric buses. Austin’s Capitol Metro called the plan “bold.” Another way to say that: “Billions.” Austin voters have…
Private property or the public good? Thoughts on wealth, taxes and justice
Growing up in the 1970s, there were some things I was sure of. One such truth was that America is a Christian nation — founded by Christians, based on Christian principles, uniquely favored by God. I suspect many Christians who…
What would happen if immigration policies were based on majority opinion in the U.S.?
What would happen if U.S. immigration policy were crafted based on the majority views of Americans? The two major political parties express often polar opposite views on immigration, and even presidents who are perceived as open to immigration (Barack Obama…
Character matters, but policy matters more. Christians should know that
Although bad character and bad behavior can certainly have a negative impact on others, public policy is a different kind of morality that affects many more people in much more profound ways.
Carrie Newcomer, Christian kindness and making room at the table for everyone
It’s time to turn our personal kindness into political kindness, to turn love into policy, to speak truth and to be the people God calls us to be, in person and in policy.
CBF leader denounces plan to loosen restrictions on payday loans
A Cooperative Baptist Fellowship advocacy specialist criticized a federal banking agency’s plan to roll back Obama-era restrictions on short-term, high-interest loans that many Americans view as predatory.