Sweet tea, porch-side conversations and an unmistakeable charm all come together to form southern culture. There's no denying that the South has worked long and hard to distinguish itself from the rest of the United States. This beautiful region has managed to maintain and preserve many traditions, which has been proven to be a double-edged sword. For some, the South is a bitter reminder of a troubled past, while others view it as a living symbol of simpler times. No matter your personal feelings on it, we can all agree that one of the characteristics that makes the South so unique is its unapologetically Christian foundation.
Christianity is deeply embedded in southern culture. Churches serve as more than just worship centers, they are social and political hubs. When deciding what local or state officials to elect, southerners place just as much importance on what churches these political hopefuls attend as they do on their platforms. This means that pastors, deacons and other church officials hold a large amount of influence over who their congregations will vote for. If a pastor declares a political candidate to be ungodly, then you can be assured his flock will think twice before voting for them. It is because of this reason that I am so unsettled by all the churches and pastors that have chosen to endorse Donald Trump.
While I understand that the Republican Party has been known to align themselves very closely with Christian beliefs, I would not consider Mr. Trump to be a good representative of either institution. His outlandish lifestyle is a far cry from the humble upbringing many Christians pride themselves in. Even though Donald Trump has had a great number a successful business ventures, I doubt he can relate to the struggles of many working class Americans. So why then have so many churches chosen to support him?
It's 2016. Gay marriage is legal, feminism is challenging gender roles and racism is still a hot-button topic. Many God-fearing southerners feel like their lifestyle is at stake and they are clinging onto anything/anyone who can save their way of life. Donald Trump has weaseled his way into the hearts of these individuals, which is a dangerous thing. Having influential institutions, like churches, support such a bigoted and hateful presidential candidate, can breed nothing but negativity. When a pastor encourages his congregation to vote for Trump, they are agreeing with his derogatory comments towards immigrants, women, Muslims and other minorities. They are encouraging hate and promoting ignorance. Since Trump made his announcement that he would be running for president, I have heard various stories from friends and acquaintances that illustrate the dangers that a Trump-led America can bring. I know of children who have been ridiculed for their race, students getting bullied because they are "illegals," and women who dare to call themselves feminists get shot down as bitter man-haters.
What are God-fearing southerners willing to overlook in order to "Make America Great Again?"
