S03E01: The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Doctrine of Christian Discovery an interview with Robert P. Jones

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Introduction

We begin this episode with a land acknowledgement.

In this episode of the Mapping the Doctrine of Discovery podcast, hosts Phil Arnold and Sandy Bigtree interview Robert P. Jones, the President and Founder of Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI). Jones discusses his background as a scholar and writer, and how he has evolved to incorporate personal narratives into his work. He also talks about his new book, “The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Path Toward a Shared American Future,” which explores the history of white supremacy in American Christianity. Jones emphasizes the importance of truth-telling and cross-cultural conversations in addressing the legacy of white supremacy and working towards a more equitable future. The hosts also discuss the significance of shifting from Columbus Day to Indigenous People’s Day and the need for a broader understanding of American history that includes the contributions and perspectives of Indigenous and African-American peoples.

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Show Notes

Unraveling the layers of American history involves peering into its complex tapestry of influences, perspectives, and narratives. As we delve into this journey with Robert P. Jones, the founder and president of the Public Religion Research Institute, challenges familiar narratives and brings to light a history often untold. Jones’ scholarly work, rooted in honesty about his family’s connection to the settler colonialism project, informs his research and makes it more relatable and engaging to a wider audience.

Our discussion focuses on the interconnected histories of the Indian and the Negro problem, the doctrine of discovery, and the 1619 project. These topics illuminate the complex relationships between colonists and Indigenous people, highlighting narratives often omitted in mainstream American history. It’s a fresh perspective that includes the teachings of Native Americans to the founding fathers and Europeans about equity, fraternity, and liberty.

Shifting narratives play a significant role in how we perceive our history. A noteworthy shift is the transition from Columbus Day to Indigenous People’s Day, a change representing a broader movement towards acknowledging the indigenous roots of American history. Exploring the history of Christopher Columbus and his legacy provides insights into the doctrine of discovery, the nation’s need to appear older, and the implications of celebrating Columbus Day in our modern society.

Understanding history isn’t just about rewriting it; it’s about the power of truth-telling from various perspectives. We highlight communities in Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Minnesota that are using storytelling to bring their local histories alive. We also spotlight Jerome Little, the first African-American elected county commissioner in Tallahatchie County. The influence of writers like James Baldwin and Vine Deloria Jr. in shaping these narratives is also recognized.

Finally, we delve into Robert P Jones’ New York Times bestselling book, The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy: And the Path to a Shared American Future. The book embodies this ethos of understanding and rewriting history through personal narratives. It demonstrates the power of truth-telling and the importance of engaging in cross-cultural conversations.

To move forward, we must acknowledge our past, however uncomfortable or challenging it may be. Unearthing untold stories, recognizing the influences of marginalized groups, and shifting our narratives are all part of a broader effort to create a shared American future. The process of uncovering these narratives is just beginning, and it is through this exploration that we can start to truly understand the complex tapestry of American history.

Outline

• Introduction and acknowledgment of the Onondaga Nation
• Introduction of hosts, Phil Arnold and Sandy Bigtree
• Guest introduction: Anthea Butler, author of “White Evangelical Racism: The Politics of Morality in America”
• Discussion on the role of evangelical Christians in manipulating voting structures and policies
• The connection between evangelicals and the moral majority
• The evangelical desire to break down government and establish their own rule
• The imposition of evangelical morality on others
• The political project of evangelicals
• The role of evangelicals in imposing their will on issues such as abortion, same-sex marriage, and racism
• The use of morality as a shield for evangelicals
• The desire to bring about the Kingdom of God on Earth
• The connection between limited government and evangelical beliefs
• The double-talk and doublespeak of evangelicals
• The use of religion and politics by evangelicals
• The history of the evangelical movement and its distinction from mainline Christianity
• The influence of evangelicals in politics and their connection to presidents
• The history of racial proscription and racism within evangelicalism
• The complex nature of whiteness and its role in evangelicalism
• The genealogy of modern racism and its connection to the Doctrine of Discovery
• The need to challenge dominant narratives and engage civically
• The importance of education and bringing knowledge to the public
• The real history of America and the recognition of Indigenous tribes and nations before colonization.

Resources

• Philip P. Arnold, The Urgency of Indigenous Values, (Syracuse: Syracuse University Press, 2023)
• James Baldwin, The Fire Next Time, (New York: Vintage, 1992)
• Greg Garrett, The Gospel According to James Baldwin: What America’s Great Prophet Can Teach Us about Life, Love, and Identity, (New York: Orbis Books, 2023)
• Robert P. Jones, The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy: And the Path to a Shared American Future, (New York: Simon & Schuster, 2023)
• _____, White Too Long: The Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity, (New York: Simon & Schuster, 2023)
• _____, The End of White Christian America,, (New York: Simon & Schuster, 2017)
• Vine Deloria, Jr., Red Earth, White Lies,, (Fulcrum Publishing, 1997)
• __, God Is Red: A Native View of Religion, (Fulcrum Publishing, 2023)

Credits

• Music: Onondaga Social Dance songs performed by Orris Edwards and Regis Cook
• Producers: Jordan Loewen-Colón and Adam DJ Brett
• Show notes: Adam DJ Brett

Citation

Philip P. Arnold and Sandra Bigtree, “S03E01: The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Doctrine of Christian Discovery an interview with Robert P. Jones,” Mapping the Doctrine of Discovery (Podcast), October 25, 2023. https://podcast.doctrineofdiscovery.org/season3/episode-01/.