Intersections with Phil Allen, Jr.

Episode:  006; We Can Breathe: The Election, Kamala Harris, and Evangelicals

Airdate:   Monday, November 9, 2020

Length:    35:55

Guest(s):  Phil Allen, Jr.

Description: In a thoughtful, reflective solo episode this week, Phil Allen, Jr. discusses the meaning behind the long-in-coming triumph of President-Elect Joseph Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris following an arduous election season and suspenseful four day long voting tally.  In We Can Breathe: The Election, Kamala Harris, and Evangelicals, Allen discusses why there was exaltation and exhalation this week at the intersection of race, culture and theology.

Although he does not view Biden as a “savior,” Allen points to the fact that a new presidency is to begin, replacing one that harnessed fear, divisiveness and racism for political ends. And where theology is concerned, Allen – who is a pastor himself – calls into question the resolute embrace of Donald Trump by evangelical Christians. This faction of Trump’s base engages in what Allen calls “theological gymnastics” to justify their allegiance to a politician whose actions belie their beliefs.

With this election, the culture has moved forward as America has seated the first woman – and first woman of color – in the world’s second-most hallowed place of power.  Where a positive development such as this leads we have yet to know. But for now, young black girls – and all children of color for that matter – can again now see themselves reflected in a place where opportunity is limitless.

Please join us for this week’s episode of Intersections with Phil Allen, Jr.

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Phil Allen, Jr. is a Los Angeles-based pastor, social justice activist, filmmaker and author. His book “Open Wounds: A Story of Racial Tragedy, Trauma and Redemption” explores the murder of Nate Allen—Phil Allen’s grandfather—in the Jim Crow era of South Carolina and how that traumatic event resonated through generations of his family. “Open Wounds” – which is based on the Allen-produced documentary of the same name – will be published in February 2021 and is available for pre-order on Amazon.com. Allen is a Ph.D. student studying Christian ethics at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA.