Muddied Media Spaces:

 The Confluence of Faith and Politics

           Written by HowardCLangfordjr.com Blog video-The Ish on YouTube.com Abbas Media 

 

In the heart of America’s spiritual communities, a silent hierarchy persists—one that predates our modern institutions and continues to shape our societal interactions. This hidden framework, often overlooked, influences not only our social dynamics but also permeates our religious congregations, political affiliations, and media representations. As Carlos Roberson, CEO of Holy Connection, insightfully observes, understanding this underlying structure is crucial to comprehending the current trajectory of the church and its role in addressing systemic inequalities.

 

                                         

This approach introduces the concept of a pervasive social hierarchy—akin to a caste system—that influences various facets of American life, including faith, politics, and media. It also seamlessly integrates Roberson’s perspective, providing a foundation for the ensuing discussions.  

The tangled relationship between faith and politics isn’t new in America—it began long before the Constitution, with race, religion, and politics historically moving in lockstep.

In “American Caste: A Secret History,” Suraj Yengde (2022) contends that the United States harbors a deeply entrenched caste system, akin to that of India, which underpins its social, political, and religious structures. He argues that this caste system is not merely a relic of the past but a persistent force shaping contemporary American society. Yengde suggests that the nation’s foundational narratives—rooted in European, Christian democratic values—have historically obscured the realities of caste, allowing hierarchical structures to persist under the guise of equality and freedom. He highlights how populist movements and right-wing extremism, particularly in recent years, are manifestations of lower-caste whites striving to align themselves with dominant caste hierarchies, often at the expense of marginalized communities.

This perspective resonates with insights from Carlos Roberson, CEO of Holy Connection, who emphasizes the church’s role in addressing systemic inequalities perpetuated through media and political narratives. Roberson advocates for proactive engagement with media platforms to disseminate messages of faith that challenge oppressive structures. He underscores the importance of the church in guiding congregations to recognize and dismantle the subtle yet pervasive caste-like systems that influence societal interactions.

Integrating Yengde’s analysis with Roberson’s observations suggests that confronting America’s hidden caste system requires a multifaceted approach. It involves acknowledging the historical and ongoing stratifications within society and leveraging platforms of faith and media to promote equity and justice. By doing so, institutions like the church can play a pivotal role in transforming societal narratives and fostering a more inclusive community.

                                                        References:

Yengde, S. (2022). American caste: A secret history. Michigan Quarterly Review, 61(4).

(C. Roberson, personal communication, May 15, 2025) 

www.Holyconnection.tv

https://www.youtube.com/live/UzPu7YrWZV8?si=By3DRKq_00sxVXC1