The Most Important Online Movement of the Last Decade
Nov 4, 2024
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In a compelling discussion, Blake Chastain, creator of the #exvangelical movement and author of "Exvangelical and Beyond," delves into why many are leaving evangelicalism. He reveals how personal experiences with sexism, racism, and political conservatism have fueled this movement. Blake highlights the emergence of a robust online community where former evangelicals share their stories and seek validation. This conversation reexamines faith, identity, and the powerful narratives challenging traditional religious structures.
The #exvangelical movement has emerged as a powerful community for individuals disillusioned with evangelicalism to reclaim their narratives and experiences.
Social media plays a crucial role in the Exvangelical movement, providing a platform for marginalized voices to challenge dominant evangelical narratives.
Deep dives
Upcoming Events for Political Engagement
Two significant live events are scheduled to address the impending 2024 elections and their implications. The first event will take place on November 21st at the University of Southern California, featuring experts such as Andrew Seidel and Rachel Lazar, who will discuss the current political climate and preparations for what lies ahead. The second event, happening on November 22nd at the San Diego Convention Center, will center on the issue of Christian extremism in relation to the elections, with discussions led by Matt Taylor and a roundtable featuring notable thinkers like Leah Payne and Lloyd Barba. Both events will be available for online viewing, providing opportunities for widespread participation and engagement in critical societal issues, regardless of location.
The Emergence of Exvangelical Identity
The concept of 'Exvangelical' arose as a response to the challenges faced by individuals leaving evangelical communities, reflecting a collective effort to redefine identity after disaffiliation. Blake Chastain, the originator of the term, emphasizes that it represents not only a departure from evangelical beliefs but also a framework for forming community among those who have experienced similar turmoil. This movement has allowed individuals to share their stories, voicing grievances against established religious authorities and addressing systemic issues such as abuse and hypocrisy within evangelicalism. By creating a shared language and space for dialogue, Exvangelicals have validated one another's experiences and fostered connections that provide support and understanding.
Historical Context of Evangelicalism
The podcast delves into the historical backdrop of American evangelicalism, highlighting the complex interactions between progressive movements and conservative reactions from within the community. Chastain notes that attempts at creating inclusive and progressive evangelical spaces have existed since the 1970s, often sidelined or marginalized over time. Events like the Urbana conference and the Chicago Declaration reflect historical efforts to engage with pressing social issues, including civil rights and environmental concerns. However, the increasing polarization and rigidity in modern evangelicalism have often left those seeking a broader dialogue feeling unwelcome, prompting their eventual departure.
Counterpublics and the Role of Social Media
The rise of social media has enabled the Exvangelical movement to function as a counterpublic, offering a platform where those distanced from mainstream evangelicalism can articulate their perspectives. This dynamic is rooted in the idea that marginalized voices can form communities that challenge dominant narratives, sharing stories that highlight their lived experiences. By using social media, individuals have found ways to navigate their transition from evangelicalism, fostering connections that validate their experiences and critique the prevailing cultural norms of the evangelical movement. As a result, the Exvangelical space has evolved into a vital resource for dialogue about personal transformation and societal impact.
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In this episode, Brad sits down with Blake Chastain, creator of the #exvangelical movement, to explore the growing community of people who have left evangelicalism. They discuss the origins of the #exvangelical hashtag, coined by Blake, and its role in giving voice to those disillusioned with evangelical institutions. Together, they examine the reasons people have left — from issues like sexism and racism to political conservatism — and how these individuals have found solidarity and community in the exvangelical movement. Blake also shares insights from his new book, Exvangelical and Beyond, where he delves into the enduring impact of this movement and what it means for the future. This episode offers a thought-provoking look at how former evangelicals are reclaiming their stories and challenging powerful institutions in meaningful ways.