Throughout history, the Black church has been a crucible of spiritual refuge and political liberation.
From the battle to abolish slavery to voting rights, equal rights, and educational opportunities, Black church leaders have called on God and preached spiritual lessons to raise the conscience of their people, even related to politics. Yet the recent IRS decision permitting churches to endorse political candidates from the pulpit gives many Black religious leaders pause.
For context, the Johnson Amendment—named after then-Sen. Lyndon B. Johnson and enacted in 1954—prohibits churches and other 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations from directly or indirectly participating in political campaigns on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for public office.
In 2017, President Donald Trump, then in his first term, reportedly told a group of religious leaders that he would “destroy” the Johnson Amendment. He fulfilled his promise this month when a court order lifted the IRS ban, ensuring Trump’s support from religious conservatives who felt it violated their free speech rights.
On the surface, this appears to be a victory for religious freedom. But why now? Black clergy are confident they know why.
The Rev. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ (UCC), warns, “The IRS’s latest proposal may be a setup to further disenfranchise and attack Black churches that have historically been at the frontlines of the civil rights movement and the struggle for Black political and economic empowerment.”
“I do not trust their word. I do not trust their intent,” declared the Rev. William Lamar, pastor of Metropolitan AME Church. “We [Black clergy] would be foolish to believe this is being done on behalf of all of us. They will find a way to ensure that we are punished for using this policy the way they will use it. I’m watching and waiting, but I do not trust them because in the end, their policies have always been to place a stranglehold on power – judicially, legislatively, economically, and religiously.”
Black clergy see this shift—driven by a lawsuit from conservative Texas churches—feels less like protection and more like permission rooted in partisan interest.
The Black church has never needed a license to speak truth to power. It’s done so under threat, under fire, and under God. Black clergy have historically demonstrated wisdom in striking a balance that informs the faithful without compromising their autonomy.
A shift in political leadership or a change in priorities could put churches—especially Black churches—right back in the crosshairs of enforcement.
Until there is absolute legislative clarity—not just selective reinterpretation—Black churches should continue to stand on the side of caution, conscience, and community.
Reprinted from the Washington Informer
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