American Prophets

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Since the rise of the Religious Right in the 1970s, it has been widely accepted that this coalition represents the "moral majority," promoting conservative Christian values. However, national religion reporter Jack Jenkins argues that a vibrant moral force from the left has also shaped American society. This diverse group of interfaith activists has existed since the nation's founding, advocating for progressive values such as abolition, labor reform, civil rights, and environmental preservation. Jenkins explores the resurgence of faith-based activism, highlighting its origins and contrasting it with the goals of the Religious Right. Today’s expanding interfaith coalition—comprising Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and others—plays a significant role in the broader resistance movement. Jenkins profiles influential political insiders, including former White House staffers and faith outreach directors for Democratic campaigns, alongside a new generation of progressive faith leaders. Notable figures include Rev. William Barber II, Linda Sarsour, Rev. Traci Blackmon, Sister Simone Campbell, and Native American activists opposing the Dakota Access Pipeline. This reevaluation of America's moral center offers an inspiring view of progressive faith in action, reshaping our understanding of the interplay between politics and religion.