The Politics of Black Religion

Barbara D. Savage

Geraldine R. Segal Professor of American Social Thought and Professor of History in the Department of History of the University of Pennsylvania

April 11, 2012

Grawemeyer Award in Religion Lecture

Dr. Savage received the prize for the ideas set forth in her book, Your Spirits Walk Beside Us: The Politics of Black Religion which introduces important new perspectives on the study of black religion and the political role of African American churches.

Dr. Savage explains why it is misleading to speak of ‘the black church’ given the enormous diversity among African American congregations. She also challenges the popular belief that black churches have been prophetic and politically active throughout history. Listen to the lecture.