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Can Evangelicalism Be Progressive?

Long before evangelicalism became associated with the mostly white, conservative followers aligned with the Republican Party, a long line of progressive evangelicals led reforms to abolish slavery, give women the vote and improve public schools.

But the history of evangelicalism is complicated. It has a rich history of social activism on behalf of the marginalized, mixed with deep discomfort with the very people it seeks to help.

This paradox allowed the Republican Party to weave politics into the fabric of evangelicalism more than 30 years ago. Today, the loyalty remains, despite presidential contenders who speak against the tenets of evangelical faith. 

Some say a new generation of progressive evangelical women and minorities are reviving the biblical and social justice foundation upon which the long history of evangelicalism rests. Is evangelicalism ready for another revival? 

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Colin McEnroe and Chion Wolf contributed to this show. 

Betsy started as an intern at WNPR in 2011 after earning a Master's Degree in American and Museum Studies from Trinity College. She served as the Senior Producer for 'The Colin McEnroe Show' for several years before stepping down in 2021 and returning to her previous career as a registered nurse. She still produces shows with Colin and the team when her schedule allows.

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