Aspiring to Antiracism

For Aspiring to Antiracism, sociologists Gerardo Martí, Mark T. Mulder, and Kevin D. Dougherty undertook an unprecedented, five-year investigation into what happens when predominantly white, socially progressive churches attempt to confront white supremacy from within. Focusing on the Alliance of Baptists---a denomination known for pioneering commitments to women's ordination and LGBTQ+ inclusion---the authors show how these churches' aspirations are repeatedly constrained by entrenched institutional dynamics.The book reveals that progressive ideals and a history of successful reform do not automatically translate into effective antiracist practice. Instead, congregations find that racial justice demands deeper, more disruptive change. Well-meaning white members often fall into an “awareness trap,” devoting energy to book studies, reflection, and discussion that expand personal understanding but delay structural change. Internal tensions---ranging from debates over music styles to conflicts that drive out prophetic pastors---push antiracism efforts back toward individualized learning, leaving white cultural norms and leadership patterns intact. A theology of inclusivity that prioritizes consensus and emotional comfort further deters difficult conversations, producing a restless antiracism that defers decisive, systemic action.Through candid interviews and close organizational analysis, the authors center the experiences of Black members and pastors navigating these churches. Despite welcoming intentions, Black Christians report profound isolation, cultural sacrifices in worship, and the exhausting expectation that they serve as racial educators for their white peers. The book also exposes both subtle and overt forms of resistance from anxious donors and discontented members---from withheld tithes and worship disputes to pushback over church signage and reparations. These reactions reveal how deeply whiteness remains woven into congregational identities and governance. Aspiring to Antiracism provides a sober, necessary assessment of why sincere commitments to equity so often stall, challenging the limits of good intentions and offering essential insights for those seeking to move beyond symbolic gestures toward lasting institutional accountability.