Urban Renewal and White Churches: Unpacking the Legacy of Displacement w/Greg Jarrell

In this episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram interview Greg Jarrell, author of "Our Trespasses: White Churches and the Taking of American Neighborhoods." Greg, a community leader and storyteller from Charlotte, North Carolina, discusses the impact of urban renewal on Black neighborhoods and the role of white churches in this process. He delves into the historical context of urban renewal, its consequences, and how these policies were justified and perpetuated by the theological narratives of white churches. The conversation explores the lingering effects of these policies, the concept of social hauntings, and the need for reparative justice and structural change. Greg also touches on the importance of recognizing and addressing systemic racism embedded in urban development and housing policies.

Buy Our TrespassesWhite Churches and the Taking of American Neighborhoods

Guest Bio:

Greg is a cultural organizer with QC Family Tree in the Enderly Park neighborhood of Charlotte, North Carolina. He works with words and music to impact housing and neighborhood justice issues. Jarrell writes about theology and history and co-leads Carolina Social Music Club, a popular jazz band. He and his wife, Helms, are ordained ministers and are raising two sons.

Greg is the author of two books. His book Our Trespasses: White Churches and the Taking of American Neighborhoods (Fortress Press), has won wide acclaim for its lucid storytelling and new research. He has written widely, including for Sojourners, The Bitter Southerner, and The Charlotte Observer. Greg is a regular contributor at Baptist News Global. He frequently speaks, teaches, and preaches on place, race, and faith.