Today, we welcome Stephen Long, the brain behind Sacred Tension Substack and its podcast. We're in for a deep, meaningful discussion about internalized homophobia and how it affects the LGBTQ+ community. But, we're not stopping there, we're delving into the nitty-gritty; the politics of relationships, religion's role in society, and the evolution of identity language. We grapple with the terms "gay" and "queer", and the generational gap in their interpretations. We discuss the daily struggle of reconciling deep religious beliefs with homosexuality, and how queer people of faith endure a constant battle of making peace with conflicting aspects of identity. We'll also be touching on the complexities of activism and the loss of personal growth caused by internalized homophobia.To wrap things up, we'll refocus on religion's role in society. We'll bring in perspectives from the Satanic Temple, a non-theistic religious organization emphasizing compassion, empathy, and human rights. We'll dissect the elements of religion, its challenges, and how it can add structure and meaning to lives. This is an episode packed with boundary-pushing conversations, norms challenge, and enough self-reflection to spark meaningful change. Make sure you like and subscribe to Deep Dive with Shawn C. Fettig on your preferred podcast platform; you won't want to miss this one!Mentioned:On Liberty – John Stuart MillThe Way of the Strangers: Encounters with the Islamic State - Graeme WoodThe Identity Trap – Yascha Mounk-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

**After a two month hiatus, Deep Dive returns next week (Sunday, Nov 26th) with a slew of new episodes with exciting, entertaining, and interesting guests.  In the meantime, in light of the recent polling suggesting that voters may return Donald Trump to the White House in next year’s presidential election, check out this Greatest Hit of Deep Dive, in advance of the 2022 midterm election, when the landscape also looked dire for Democrats.**-----What if the game of American politics is structurally rigged? Dr. David Faris, author of 'It's Time to Fight Dirty: How Democrats Can Build a Lasting Majority in American Politics', steps onto the stage in this episode to reveal the striking institutional disadvantages within our democracy. We dissect how Republicans have leveraged these disparities to gain power, and we question the true value of bipartisanship. David lays out a feasible roadmap for Democrats to counteract these imbalances, even if tactics seem a bit unorthodox.Our dialogue doesn't stop there. We examine the distressing trend of presidents securing their seat in the Oval Office without the popular vote, and the impact this has had on the perceived legitimacy of our political system. By peeling back the layers of our Constitution, we attempt to understand how its outdated mechanisms have allowed such outcomes. Despite the evident structural deficits in the House and Senate, we discuss potential solutions such as the Fair Representation Act and the bold move of statehood for DC and Puerto Rico. We wrap up our deep dive with an innovative exploration of political relocation, discussing the implications of planned mass migration of liberal voters to conservative states. Would flipping North and South Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming really make a difference? As we navigate these thought-provoking avenues, we also touch on the potential overturning of Roe v Wade, the influence of language within politics, and the potential of a central coordinating mechanism to shift the balance of Senate seats. This conversation challenges conventional thought and presents new perspectives on the dynamics of American politics. Be sure not to miss it.Recommended:It's Time to Fight Dirty: How Democrats Can Build a Lasting Majority in American Politics - David Faris-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

**Originally released October 21, 2021**Could a spark of liberation emerge in a world of oppressive leaders? Join me, your host, and Alex Vatanka, the founding director of the Iran program at the Middle East Institute, as we examine the recent upheaval in Iran triggered by the tragic death of a 22-year-old woman arrested for a 'bad hijab'. Together, we peel back the layers of this rapidly unfolding crisis, shining a light on the violent reaction of the Iranian regime, the organic expansion of the protests, and the role of Iran's Supreme Leader.This episode is a journey back in time to 1979, revisiting the birth of the Islamic Republic and the aftermath of the Iranian Revolution. It's a closer look at the intricate dance between Iran and the US, the simmering anger in Iran’s younger generation, and the ripple effects leading to a significant Iranian diaspora. We don't shy away from the tough topics, tackling the Supreme Leader's hardline ideology and the escalating economic despair of Iran's citizens. We also venture into the nuances of the ongoing protests, exploring the symbolic power of the anti-hijab movement and the internal fight between theocracy and secularism.We wrap up with a thought-provoking discussion on the potential repercussions of this current unrest. Is this the tipping point for Iranians to reclaim their future? What will leadership after Ayatollah Khamenei have to contend with? We explore these questions and more, as we grapple with the complexities of a nation on the brink of change. Here's an episode that offers an enlightening perspective on the internal dynamics of a highly charged geopolitical hotspot - as viewed through the lens of a seasoned expert. So, are you ready to step into the heart of the storm?-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

**Originally released April 27, 2022**Get ready for a journey into understanding the evolution of public opinion on the queer and trans communities post the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court ruling. My guest, Dr. Andrew Flores - an Assistant Professor in the Department of Government at American University and a visiting scholar at the Williams Institute at UCLA - lends us his extensive research on public sentiment and its impact on the queer community. Together, we tackle the intricate issues of legislative threats, marriage equality, and the emotional complexity of the queer community's relationship with the government.We have an enlightening discussion on how mass media representation has influenced public opinion about the queer and trans communities. The contrasting approaches of Hollywood and the Republican Party towards queer representation provide an interesting perspective on the power of media in shaping societal attitudes. We also delve into how policy changes can impact queer mental health, underscoring the queer community's resilience in the face of numerous challenges. As we round up our episode, the discussion takes a lively turn towards individual actions and their power to drive systemic change. We highlight the toll of anti-trans rhetoric and legislation on children and emphasize the crucial role of both legislative and individual actions in creating a more inclusive society. This insightful conversation, although acknowledging the grim current political climate, manages to end on a positive note, affirming our strong belief in a more hopeful and inclusive future. Tune in for a riveting exploration of these critical issues, painted with a lens of positivity, resilience, and strength.-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

**Originally released Dec 9, 2022**Have you ever pondered the courage it takes to truly embrace your identity, despite society's norms? Do you ever wonder what it feels like to experience the world through the lens of a queer individual? Join me for a heartfelt conversation with guests, Soda Canter and Justin Hentges, as we navigate through the intricacies of our queer lives. This episode unpacks various stages of our lives, inviting you to reflect on some key moments such as coming out, confronting societal prejudices, and finding self-acceptance. Justin shares his vulnerable journey of coming out and how it was crucial for him to survive into his 40s. We discuss the challenges faced by queer individuals in the military, scrutinizing Soda's experiences under the "don't ask, don't tell" policy. Soda and Justin bring a sprinkle of humor with a dash of reality.This isn't a conversation limited to personal anecdotes though. We tackle broader issues that touch the lives of queer individuals everywhere. Body positivity, self-acceptance, and societal expectations are some of the topics that we shine a light on. We wrap up the episode with a dose of nostalgia as we recall our childhood celebrity crushes and the music that marked our youth. So, get comfortable and join us on this exploration of queer life and the journey towards self-acceptance.Mentioned: Nellie’s Sport Bar JRs Bar Tell Me Lies After the Ecstasy, the Laundry - Jack Kornfield The ExpanseMartina McBrideReba McEntireMatchbox TwentyFaith HillBobbie GentryAmy GrantRecommended:Morgantown Blues-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Promising an enlightening journey through the historical and contemporary significance of the U.S. Census, I'm joined by esteemed scholar Dr. Dan Bouk - professor of History at Colgate University and author of the book Democracy's Data: The Hidden Stories in the U.S. Census and How to Read Them. This episode unearths the nuanced power dynamics and biases inherent in the census process. With a focus on the 1940 Census, a task monumental in scale, we uncover the detailed process of transforming raw data into a compelling narrative about who we value as a society.We investigate the poetic yet complex process of conducting the census, shedding light on the intricacies of data literacy and the potential pitfalls of interpretation. Dr. Bouk offers valuable advice for researchers and analysts, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and conveying uncertainty in statistical data. Moreover, we explore how this counting of people creates narratives about societal importance, resonating particularly when considering marginalized groups and queer communities.Unmasking the suppression, survival, and blossoming of marginalized communities through the lens of census data, we endeavour to understand how this vital tool impacts the power distribution among states. We analyze the effects on American democracy, considering the challenges and potential of an accurate and inclusive census count. In conclusion, we reflect on the immense potential of the U.S. Census, not just as a data gathering tool, but as a means to shape a more representative and united America.Recommended:Democracy's Data: The Hidden Stories in the U.S. Census and How to Read Them - Dan BoukMentioned:The 272: The Families who were Enslaved and Sold to Build the American Catholic Church - Rachel L. SwarnsClose to the Machine - Ellen Ullman Thinking Like an Economist: How Efficiency Replaced Equality in US Public Policy - Elizabeth Popp BermanThe Wandering Mind: What Medieval Monks Tell Us about Distraction - Jamie Kreiner-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Imagine navigating the intricate pathways of immigration and citizenship in the United States, only to find yourself in uncharted territory. Join me and esteemed legal scholar, Amanda Frost, as we embark on this journey through the complexities of these policies. We uncover the historical evolution of immigration and citizenship, shedding light on the legal and political perspectives that have shaped this contentious debate. Unearth with us how the outcomes of these policies directly impact immigrants and the broader American society, and grasp the implications these issues pose on our nation's identity and future.Ever wondered why American citizenship is a gray area? It all stems from the lack of a clear definition in the U.S. Constitution. Amanda and I delve into the significant contributions of the Reconstruction Amendments, particularly the 14th Amendment, to the idea of citizenship, revealing the persisting gray areas that continue to challenge the concept of citizenship in the United States. This conversation spotlights contemporary issues with citizenship, highlighting the historical and current attempts to deny citizenship to different groups. We also about the power of birthright citizenship. We evaluate its significance in the United States, how it compares to other countries, and its influence on our national identity. Amanda stresses the essential role immigrants play in the U.S. workforce, and the need for more accessible legal pathways for immigrants. She also underscores the need for a more positive narrative surrounding immigration, one that values and appreciates the contributions of immigrants to our society. So, tune in, because the future of immigration and citizenship in America is a story you don't want to miss.-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

How often do we pause and think about the multiple layers of our identities and how they intersect with our experiences? What's the role of our race, gender, sexuality, religion and more in shaping our perception of societal issues? With Dr. E. Patrick Johnson, a renowned scholar, artist, and activist, we navigate the complex course of intersectionality, focusing on the unique fusion of queerness, blackness, and southerness.Together with Dr. Johnson, I journey through the South and its complexities, understanding how it influences our life paths and identities. We delve into poignant discussions about the intersection of race, class, and sexuality with the Southern experience, and the distinct Black Southern Queer male and female experiences. The conversation follows a trail of resilience stories, the impact of privilege, and the challenges of disentangling from religious structures - a fascinating exploration of the intricate intersection of religion, sexuality, race, and region in the South.As we tie the threads of our discussion, we highlight the potential of embracing intersectionality to cultivate a more inclusive, empathetic, and equitable society. I invite you to join us in this riveting episode and partake in understanding the beauty of human experiences, their intersectionalities, and their significance in our society. Let's journey together into the heart of intersectionality and its transformative power on our lives.Recommended:Honeypot: Black Southern Women who Love Women - E. Patrick JohnsonSweet Tea: Black Gay Men of the South—An Oral History - E. Patrick JohnsonMentioned:Long Division - Kiese LaymonP-Valley-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Is the spirit of bipartisanship gasping its last breath? Today's conversation with Dr. Laurel Harbridge-Yong, Professor of Political Science at Northwestern University and an authority on the subject, might just surprise you. We’ll journey into the heart of American politics, exploring the ramifications of polarization, the push and pull of primary voters, and the strategic game of redistricting. We’ll dissect how our elected representatives navigate the tricky path between appeasing primary voters and general electorates, and delve into the concept of the primary premium, particularly in safe seats. Drawing from Dr. Harbridge-Yong's research, we examine the seismic shifts within the Republican and Democratic parties and the disparities between them. Also on our agenda is the controversial practice of gerrymandering - an exercise that shapes our districts, our representation, and potentially strains our democracy.As we navigate through these complex themes, our final port of call is the state of American democracy itself. We’ll grapple with the explanations for the rise of polarization, the role of money in politics, and the shifting perception of democratic norms. Is it all doom and gloom, or do glimmers of hope persist? Join us as we embark on this provocative exploration of American politics, with an ending that will leave you optimistic about the future of our democracy.Recommended:Is Bipartisanship Dead - Laurel Harbridge-YongRejecting Compromise - Sarah E. Anderson, Daniel M. Butler, & Laurel Harbridge-Yong-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock

Have you ever felt the weight of fear when your spirituality seems to contradict your identity? This episode addresses the intricate relationship between faith and queerness, as we delve into the profound emotions and experiences that come with growing up queer in the church. Dr. Bernard Schlager, associate professor of Historical and Cultural Studies and Executive Director of the Center for LGBTQ and Gender Studies in Religion at Pacific School of Religion, joins me to share his valuable insights on this topic.We dissect not only the conflicts and tensions within religious spaces but also explore the potentialities of queer spirituality, how religious texts can be interpreted, and the importance of creating safe faith exploratory spaces for queer individuals. This genuine exploration of the queer experience within the context of spirituality and religion aims to instigate conversations, questions, and a broader understanding of the intersection between queerness and faith.What does it mean to find comfort and community in faith as a queer individual? We examine the need for open and inclusive religious spaces, the complexities of interpreting religious texts concerning queer identities, and how easily differing beliefs can be demonized. Also, we reflect on the invaluable role of pastoral care for the queer community, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating queer people as valuable members of religious communities. Tune in for an enlightening dialogue that bridges the seemingly disparate worlds of queerness and faith. And, ChatGPT does something the Bible does not - writes a parable in which Jesus explains to a young child why his queerness ensures him a place in Heaven.Recommended:Ministry Among God’s Queer Folk: LGBTQ Pastoral Care - Bernard Schlager and David KundtzMentioned:Christianity, Social Tolerance, and Homosexuality - John BoswellNot a Tame LionLove Tenderly: Sacred Stories of Lesbian and Queer Religious - Grace Surdovel and Jeannine GramickPunch Me Up to the Gods - Brian BroomeQueer as Fact Podcast-------------------------Follow Deep Dive:InstagramYouTube Email: deepdivewithshawn@gmail.com Music: Majestic Earth - Joystock