Dec 6, 2022
When we really take a moment to step back and think, it’s easy to agree that Jesus had brown skin because he was from the Middle East. If that’s the case, why is Christ so often depicted as white with light skin, hair, and eyes?
In this episode we uncover the roots of white Jesus, explain the impact this depiction has made on us and our communities, and discuss why it’s important to use more accurate depictions of Christ in your home.
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Articles, Studies & Podcasts Referenced In The Episode
First Name Basis Podcast, Season 2, Episode 24: “Cancel Culture Part 3: Removing Statues”
First Name Basis Podcast, Season 2, Episode 15: “Diversity & Inclusion In LDS Art”
“Where Did ‘White Jesus’ Come From?” On the Media podcast
“‘Color of Christ’: A Story of Race and Religion in America,” Terry Gross interview with Edward Blum, NPR
“How Jesus Became White And Why It’s Time To Cancel That” by Emily McFarlan Miller, Religion News Service
“What’s The Difference Between Puritans and Pilgrims?” by Dave Roos, History.com
“The Harlem Renaissance,” History.com
“Colonel Henry Stanley Todd, The Priory, and the Nazarene” by Claudia S. Fortunato
Psychologist Simon Howard from Marquette University
“Dylann Roof Appeals Death Penalty in South Carolina Church Massacre” The Associated Press
“Archaeologists In Turkey Believe They Are Digging Up The Original Santa Claus,” by Ephrat Livni. Quartz
Megyn Kelly: Jesus & Santa Are White
Song Credit: “Sleeper” by Steve Adams” and “Dive Down” by VYEN