09/07/2025 08:30
- 10:45
HALL: Seminar Room 04
Proponent:
Casteel A.,
Dillen A.,
Kalian J.,
Lehner-Hartmann A.,
Verbeeck S.
Chair:
Kalian J.
Speaker:
Casteel A.,
Dillen A.,
Kalian J.,
Lehner-Hartmann A.,
Verbeeck S.
This panel delves into the intricate intersections of race, religion, and whiteness, drawing on the insights of practical theology to examine how normative assumptions influence religious spaces, practices, and pedagogies. By critically analyzing the structural and aesthetic elements of sacred spaces, the discussion sheds light on how whiteness is implicitly communicated, often perpetuating subtle yet powerful messages of exclusion and reinforcing hierarchical power dynamics embedded in religious traditions. Furthermore, the panel explores the complexities surrounding anti-racist education within faith communities, emphasizing the tensions between resistance to change and the emotional labor of addressing white guilt. Through this lens, we investigate how these dynamics shape theological discourse and community responses to calls for racial justice. By engaging these pressing issues, the panel aims to challenge dominant narratives that sustain inequities within religious contexts while simultaneously inspiring reflective theological practices that prioritize inclusivity and justice. Ultimately, the discussion will propose actionable strategies for faith communities to recognize and address systemic inequities, offering pathways for transformation that are both contextually sensitive and theologically grounded.