Christ, community, and critical race theory: Developing a framework of spiritual identity and social justice

• In Event: Spirituality, Criticality, and Social Justice

Abstract

This scholarship centers on the development of a framework that is inclusive of critical race theory and spiritual identity. Through auto-ethnographic reflexive narratives the two authors situate their academic experiences in respect to their Christianity, and how their faith serves as a source of strength and as well as a reminder of an oppressive history tied to White Supremacy. The results include a re-examination of foundational texts within the field of Critical Race Theory, the re-claiming of Christianity as a leader of social advocacy, and the creation of tenets for Critical Race Christianity, a term coined by the authors to frame the blending of faith and critical research together. This topic is relevant to scholars who spiritually identify, faith-based academic spaces, and those interested in religious institutions upholding social justice in the community.

Authors

• Larissa Malone, Greenville University

• Qiana Lachaud, University of Pittsburgh