A collective of over two dozen Black ministers has issued a bold statement entitled “A Credo to Legatees of the Black Church Tradition,” urging African American congregations to resist the influences of white Christian nationalism. This declaration follows a critical period marked by the reelection of Donald Trump, expressing concern over the potential implications of “Project 2025,” a set of conservative proposals that reflects ideologies some Black church leaders fear could threaten civil rights achievements.
The statement highlights the need for Black individuals and churches to channel their resources into supporting Black banks and businesses, as well as providing scholarships for students pursuing education at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and vocational schools. The ministers advocate for solidarity within the Black community, emphasizing a return to the ecumenical Black Church tradition as a means to combat systemic inequities in funding and resources.
Rev. Joseph Evans of the Berkeley School of Theology articulates that the collaborative effort represents a necessary course of action given the current political landscape, stressing that “nobody’s coming to help us.” He encourages the mobilization of Black psychiatrists and social workers to address mental health needs within the African American community, marking this as a vital challenge that has been overlooked.
Detractors of white evangelical support for the Trump administration are also acknowledged. The ministers denounce what they refer to as “political, economic, and religious idolatry” among white evangelicals, asserting that their alignment with nationalist ideologies strays from the core message of the Christian gospel, which focuses on uplifting the marginalized.
Supporters of the statement include notable figures such as Rev. Barbara Williams-Skinner and Rev. Otis Moss III, highlighting the involvement of seasoned leaders advocating for moral resistance against injustices. The statement does not solely react to the political climate but serves as a proactive and ethical commitment to affirming the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
In a time when other Black religious leaders, like the Rev. Al Sharpton, are also calling for action against corporations reducing DEI initiatives, this group of ministers joins in a powerful voice for change and community solidarity.
As we witness these important discussions unfold, it is clear that the Black Church community is looking to reclaim its influence and mobilize its congregations toward meaningful action against the backdrop of shifting political winds, fostering hope and resilience in the face of adversity.