Dr. Larycia Hawkins, a scholar and activist known for her work on race and religion, dives deep into the challenges of embodied solidarity. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the proximity to suffering and advocates for marginalized communities inspired by Jesus' radical model. The conversation touches on personal identity struggles within predominantly white spaces and explores expressions of support, like wearing a hijab. Hawkins also critiques the exclusiveness in faith institutions, urging a more inclusive and transformative approach to justice.
Dr. Larycia Hawkins discusses how embodied solidarity necessitates genuine engagement with the suffering of marginalized communities, reflecting Jesus' model of proximity.
The complexities of multi-faith solidarity are explored, emphasizing the need for shared humanity and understanding across diverse beliefs in a divided society.
Participants critique the role of institutions in shaping prophetic voices, highlighting the tension between institutional integrity and the advocacy for social justice.
Deep dives
Introduction of Violence and the Bible
The episode discusses the launch of a new book titled 'Violence and the Bible for Normal People' by Caroline Blythe, which aims to tackle the challenging theme of violence in biblical texts. Blythe, known for her engaging and accessible writing, employs her passion for true crime and mystery narratives to examine biblical instances of violence and their contemporary relevance. This unique approach not only helps readers confront the complexities of these texts but also encourages them to reflect on how these themes resonate in today's world. The book is set for release on February 11th, with a free chapter available for download.
Exploring Biblical Texts of Terror
The episode promotes a forthcoming class entitled 'Blood and Belief: Exploring the Biblical Texts of Terror,' designed to delve deeper into the extensive depictions of violence found within the Bible. Led by biblical scholars Caroline Blythe and Emily Colgan, the class aims to explore various dimensions of violence, including its intersection with power dynamics and gender. Participants will engage in discussions about how these ancient texts can inform their understanding of current societal issues related to violence. The live class will also feature a Q&A session, fostering an interactive learning environment.
Embodied Solidarity with Larisha Hawkins
The episode features a conversation with Dr. Larisha Hawkins, who shares insights on the concept of embodied solidarity, emphasizing its importance in the contemporary context. Hawkins reflects on her journey, notably her experience as the first African-American tenured woman at Wheaton College, highlighting the challenges she faced navigating predominantly white evangelical spaces. She argues that genuine solidarity requires a willingness to encounter suffering and engage with marginalized communities. By drawing parallels to the encounters of Jesus, Hawkins underscores the necessity of proximity to those who are suffering to truly embody solidarity.
Challenges in Multi-Faith Solidarity
Hawkins discusses the complexities and challenges of practicing multi-faith solidarity in a divided socio-political climate. She emphasizes that solidarity extends beyond mere kindness; it involves recognizing our shared humanity and connection across different faiths. Hawkins recalls her act of wearing a hijab in solidarity with Muslim women during a time of societal tension surrounding Islam, prompting discussion about the significance of such gestures in promoting understanding and acceptance. This highlights the broader call for Christians to embrace solidarity with individuals of diverse beliefs and backgrounds.
Reflections on Institutions and Prophetic Voices
The concluding segment reflects on the role of institutions in shaping and sometimes stifling prophetic voices, particularly within religious and academic settings. The discussion acknowledges the tension between maintaining institutional integrity and encouraging progressive thought and change. Participants express concern that institutions often protect their established norms at the expense of individuals advocating for social justice and embodied solidarity. The conversation encourages listeners to critically assess their own positions within these institutions and find balance in pursuing transformative change while nurturing their well-being.
What does it really mean to stand in solidarity with the marginalized? Pete Enns and Angela Parker are joined by scholar and activist Dr. Larycia Hawkins in this episode of Faith for Normal People to explore the risks and challenges of embodied solidarity, the radical model set by Jesus, and how everyday activism intertwines with a life of faith.
