From “Black Prophetic Patriotism: Reverend Jeremiah Wright, Jr.’s Message, Ministry, and Legacy” edited by Jonathan Chism and LaMont Johnson
The devaluing of Wright’s name and contributions reflects that Black liberation theology and Black prophetic witness and activism have been misconstrued by many White and Black Christians outside of the academy of religion. This book illuminates how Wright’s discourse situates within the history of Black religion, the Black Church, and post-civil rights Black intellectual movements such as Black liberation theology and Afrocentricity. Drawing on our expertise as scholars of religion and practical experience in ministry, the editors and contributors aim to offer a more nuanced discussion of Wright’s sermons, ministry, and prophetic activism, and patriotism. Prophetic witness via preaching, ministry, and activism is consistent with American ideals of liberty, freedom, and justice for all. Furthermore, decentering exclusive and normative European cultural hegemony and pushing for the inclusion of marginalized perspectives and cultures in America, including, but not limited to, African worldviews, is an expression of patriotism in our multicultural society.