Is the Civil Rights Era Over?

I was born in Alabama 4 weeks, to the day, after the March on Montgomery arrived at our capital steps.

After Obama was elected president, I went to visit those steps. They were the very steps where Jefferson Davis was inaugurated president of the Confederacy. They were the steps where Wallace’s inaugural speech rang with “segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever.” And just before my life began, they were the steps where King’s speech “How Long, Not Long” met the marchers who had endured three shut downs, including Bloody Sunday, and persevered with a rallying hope. That moment lead to the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed into law when I was 4 months old.

When I stood on those capital steps, I pondered how far we had come in my lifetime.

At least I thought so.

I’m not sure what to make of all this, but I fear Archibald is right. With the Voting Rights Act gutted, states (like mine) can overtly and intentionally minimize minority voices. 

John Archibald’s column can be found in its entirety below.

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A lot of people think of Alabama as the cradle of the civil rights movement.

Seems reasonable.

Alabama did give America the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the law that finally made it illegal to discriminate against people because of their skin color, or their religion, or country of origin.

It passed because of Birmingham, a city that defied court orders, that blew itself up in its own racism, that demanded black people separate themselves in parks and pools, schools, motels, restaurants, buses, water fountains, clothing stores and every other part of a good life.

It passed because of Bull Connor, of course. Because the world got an up-close look at what Birmingham’s snarling police commissioner would unleash to maintain such a lopsided world. 

The dogs and firehoses were the images etched into people’s brains. They couldn’t get their heads around 50 racist bombs that went unsolved because of this police commissioner.

Martin Luther King Jr. pretty much thanked Connor after the signing of the Civil Rights Act.

“That civil rights bill came as a result of Alabama,” King said.

King was shot dead a few years later. Connor went on to win statewide office.

Alabama gave America the Voting Rights Act of 1965, too. That act was signed into law just months after Gov. George Wallace sent goons to Selma to pummel peaceful marchers on a bridge named for a grand dragon of the KKK. The world, and President Lyndon B. Johnson, again saw what many white Alabamians still refuse to concede — a place where white supremacy was maintained by violence, by illegal laws, by poll taxes, tilted literacy tests and any means necessary.

“Literacy tests” is one of those phrases, like “Alabama family values,” that sounds better than it is. Registrars held tremendous power. They might ask black people to estimate the number of peanuts in a jar, or to recite the U.S. Constitution. They had been misused to deny generations of black Alabamians the power of the vote.

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 banned poll taxes and tests and, initially anyway, forced states with proven records of racial chicanery — you know the ones — to get federal approval before they could gerry-rig election districts to devalue the vote of people they feared or disrespected.

King recognized that Wallace’s belligerence paved the way for the passage of the ‘65 law, that it was pushed across the finish line only because America got to see such violent, scheming, unashamed racists that it finally made the nation uncomfortable.

“We got our voting rights bill written in pen and ink with human sacrifice,” King said. “This happened in Alabama.”

On signing the act into law, Johnson said, “The vote is the most powerful instrument ever devised by man for breaking down injustice and destroying the terrible walls which imprison men because they are different from other men.”

Wallace would go on to be elected by the people of Alabama three more times.

Many still call Alabama the cradle of the civil rights movement. It is also the cradle of its destruction.

The beginning of the end for the Voting Rights Act came in 2010 when Shelby County, a place where white people fled as black people found political voice in Birmingham, sued Eric Holder, arguing that the oversight section of the act was unconstitutional.

The Supreme Court three years later agreed, and the writing was on the wall.

The U.S. Supreme Court last week killed, for all intents and purposes, the Voting Rights Act. The majority on the court said states are free and clear to gerrymander for political advantage, as long as they pretend it’s not about race. So in places like Alabama where politics, like everything else is divided by race, it is 1965 again.

Selma doesn’t matter. Birmingham is forgotten. The civil rights era is over.

Chaplain at Fair Haven

 I love being at Fair Haven, though they are way too gracious about me in this video :-).

Academy for Spiritual Formation

Hello friends!

I’m thrilled to serve on the team of a 4 Day Academy at Camp Sumatanga planned for this Fall! I wanted to get the word out. I think some of you might be interested. I hope you can come.

We have some “big name” faculty this year, and of course the Academy rhythm is itself amazing. If you’ve never been on an Academy for Spiritual Formation, a program ministry of the Upper Room, this is a great time to be refreshed and renewed.

The Academy saved my life and ministry years ago, when I was discovering there was something contemplative welling up inside of me. It enlivened my longings to immerse them in centuries of Christian tradition.

We will be asking: What does it mean to be “Alive with Christ?” This holy question is inspired by the late, great American mystic Howard Thurman.  

One of our faculty, Luther E. Smith Jr., is a Thurman scholar and Professor Emeritus of Church & Community at Candler School of Theology. Two will serve as additional faculty:  Vivianne and Nate Foster. Nate is the son of Richard Foster whose spiritual writings you may know. Vivianne and Nate host Vilayala Retreat Center in Canada. “Vilayala” means life unhurried. What a beautiful idea!

May I suggest you sign up and invite friends and family to join you for some spiritual aliveness October 5-9?

Find out more and register here:  http://www.umcna.org/4DaySFA

If you have questions don’t hesitate to contact me! I can also send you a link to the brochure. Just let me know.

I hope to see you in October of 2026!

Easter Message from President Trump

I am making public this letter I sent to Senators Britt and Tuberville and my Congressman Gary Palmer.

Lives are at stake, my friends, as are international relations. The stakes are huge. And this hyper-militaristic “Christian nationalism” finding voice in this administration must be exposed.

If you wonder why I would post this on Easter Sunday, the real question should be why did he?

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Dear Senator/Congressman,

I write to you today, on Easter Sunday, with deep concern and a sense of moral urgency.

This morning, I was troubled and frankly outraged by a public statement from Donald Trump on Truth Social. The tone—marked by profanity, inflammatory rhetoric, and what appeared to be cavalier references to potential acts of war—was deeply disturbing. Even more grievous to me was the mocking tone toward Islam, particularly on a sacred day in the Christian calendar.

As a person of faith, I believe words matter. Scripture teaches that the tongue has the power of life and death, and that those entrusted with leadership bear an even greater responsibility for the consequences of their speech. When rhetoric escalates, especially in matters of international conflict, it does not remain merely words—it shapes policy, posture, and ultimately human lives.

I am especially concerned about the potential for escalating conflict with Iran. History has shown us how quickly miscalculation, provocation, or reckless language can lead to devastation in war. Any suggestion—implicit or explicit—of actions that would violate international law or target civilian populations must be unequivocally rejected.

I urge you, as my elected representative, to:

* Exercise strong Congressional oversight regarding any military posture or escalation involving Iran

* Publicly affirm the United States’ commitment to international law and the protection of civilian life

* Call for restraint in both language and action from all national leaders

* Work actively to prevent a slide toward catastrophic escalation of conflict in the Middle East

From my Christian perspective, this moment calls not for mockery or provocation, but for humility, restraint, and a commitment to peace. Easter reminds us that the way of Christ is not domination or destruction, but sacrificial love and reconciliation.

I ask you to act—clearly, courageously, and quickly—to help ensure that our nation does not stumble into war escalation that could have been prevented.

Respectfully,


Rev. Steve West

Irondale, Alabama

NO MORE TRUMP WAR

I stand up and speak once again. Lives are at stake. This is not a partisan statement. I’m not a partisan person.

It’s a matter of the present administration defying all the gray areas in every version of classic Christian ethics in a vast tradition of Just War Theory, as old as was first developed by 5th century African bishop St. Augustine.

NO MORE TRUMP WAR.

Our president predicted a few hours ago that he would “have the honor of taking Cuba.” This statement comes after our Commander in Chief launched unprovoked wars against Venezuela and Iran, all without congressional approval, all without building world alliances, all without rigorous diplomacy being exhausted, and all with little accountability or explanation to the American people. No matter how bad the leaders of those countries are (and they have done bad things) war is only justifiable in Christian theological and ethical tradition when it is a matter of self-defense and last resort. Many wars have been justifiable, and I deeply appreciate those who serve in harm’s way.

NO MORE TRUMP WAR.

This president who was obsessed over not winning the Nobel Peace Prize, who has flouted with taking over Canada and Greenland, now has his eye on Cuba.

I will be attending the “No King’s” protest next weekend and exercising my constitutional rights. My sign will read:

 NO MORE TRUMP WAR.

Protesting the War in Iran

 Once again, I find myself writing my senators and congressman. This is addressed to Katie Britt, and I will send a similar one to Tommy Tuberville and Gary Palmer.

I am making this a public letter and will put it on my blog and social media. 

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Dear Senator Britt,

I am writing to you as a constituent from Alabama in response to your recent statement regarding Iran, in which you said: “Iran is led by a murderous regime that not only murders innocent Americans, but is also holding innocent Americans in captivity.”

While I understand the seriousness of those accusations and the gravity of the Iranian regime’s behavior, I want to express my deep concern and disagreement with the current war. I believe this conflict is reckless and unnecessary, and I am troubled by the manner in which it has unfolded.

President Trump ran on a platform of “America First,” promising peace, strength, and an end to foreign wars. Many Americans supported him on that basis. Yet this military engagement appears to have been initiated without a clear and transparent explanation to the American people, without meaningful involvement from Congress, and while diplomatic negotiations were reportedly still underway and showing at least some positive movement regarding Iran’s nuclear program.

The Constitution vests in Congress the authority to declare war. When military action of this magnitude proceeds without robust congressional deliberation and authorization, it undermines both our constitutional framework and the trust of the American people. If we are to send our service members into harm’s way, the case must be clearly made, publicly debated, and lawfully authorized.

I urge you, as my Senator, to exercise your constitutional responsibility to demand accountability, insist on full transparency, and work with your colleagues to bring this conflict to a swift and responsible end. America can be strong without being perpetually at war. Strength includes wisdom, restraint, and a serious commitment to diplomacy wherever possible.

Please use your voice and your vote to press for de-escalation and to restore Congress’s rightful role in decisions of war and peace.

Thank you for your service to our state and for your attention to this urgent matter.

Sincerely,  

Rev. Dr. Steve West  

Irondale, Alabama 35210

Six Years Ago Today

 Six years ago today, the schismatic leadership among North Alabama Methodists released a signed, ten page rebuttal against my letter, “Why I Am Not Leaving the UMC.” My letter had gone viral as a rallying cry for what became known as “Stay UMC,” a phrase our North Alabama coalition soon coined.

In subsequent weeks, a number of them asked me to issue an apology, or write a retraction, or remove my letter from online publication. Naturally, I declined to do so. I believed every word I wrote.

I found myself articulating to a friend last night, for the first time, that the final exam for my college Sociology of Religion class at BSC was Stay UMC, 35 years later.

An article later written about Stay UMC and similar grass roots movements may be found HERE.

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Taking an Active Stance in Society

 In the past few months, I have spoken out against the dangerous mentality of “Christian nationalism,” violence toward immigrants and the lawlessness of ICE, racism in political rhetoric, the dangers of disregarding NATO and international law, aggression against Venezuela, and the like.

I do not do this because these are partisan issues. They actually aren’t … no party has been, well, “party” to these things in the past.

I do it because these are gospel issues. They are a matter of life and death. They are about following the Way of Jesus. They are not just about opinions or budget numbers.

I also do it because I am Methodist.

Here’s an excerpt from the Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church in 2026:

“Taking an active stance in society is nothing new for followers of John Wesley. He set the example for us to combine personal and social piety. Ever since predecessor churches to United Methodism flourished in the United States, we have been known as a denomination involved with people’s lives, with political and social struggles, having local to international mission implications. Such involvement is an expression of the personal change we experience in our baptism and conversion.

“The United Methodist Church believes God’s love for the world is an active and engaged love, a love seeking justice and liberty. We cannot just be observers. So we care enough about people’s lives to risk interpreting God’s love, to take a stand, to call each of us into a response, no matter how controversial or complex. The church helps us think and act out a faith perspective, not just responding to all the other ‘mind-makers-up’ that exist in our society.”

The Only Thing More Powerful than Hate

 “The only thing that is more powerful than hate is love."

I watched the Bad Bunny halftime show and afterward read what the Spanish translated into. I sincerely think it was beautifully done, a testimony to the diversity of what it truly means to be American. 

I also believe the vitriol against it, plus the need for some kind of  “All American” alternative show, are prime examples of “white nationalism” unashamed.

Christians, diversity of all those made in the image of God is a core biblical value.

Is Our Country in a Dark Night of the Soul?

I was looking back over some of my writings from over the years. I found this column I wrote for the United Methodist Reporter in 2012.

You can find my column HERE.

The last dozen years or more have indeed been a dark night of the soul, and I’m not just talking about the Church.  We are living through a dark night in our culture. Lately, watching the news has felt more like a nightmare.

I closed the article with this: “The only uniquely Christian understanding of transformation is that it involves a cross and a resurrection, and you can’t work hard to create a resurrection. I’m afraid of what taking up the cross might mean for our beloved institutions, but I know that when a cross happens, God is in it. And something new and beautiful will emerge, even if it hurts.”

Something new and beautiful did emerge from schism, I truly believe. It’s like a breath of fresh air to get together with those committed to unity in all our diversity, who stayed in the main body of the UMC. God is moving. Maybe it also feels that way for those who left. I don’t know.

But what is going to emerge from this dark night in the United States? I remind us (with trepidation) that last time my denomination went through a major schism, 17 years later our country plunged into Civil War. History revealed that the South in general, and those sho separated from the Church in particular, were wrong. Yet, strangely, some of the same dynamics in our culture are back. It seems to me that here we are again.

Surely these next few years won’t look like civil war. But what will it look like to get out of this hole? And do I still believe that something beautiful will emerge?

Condemning Actions of ICE

I am making this a public letter. It’s too important not to speak out.

Dear Senator/Representative,

I write to you today as a constituent and a person of faith deeply concerned about the escalating situation involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Minneapolis, Minnesota and the tragic deaths of at least two U.S. citizens during those operations. 

Over the past weeks, Minneapolis has witnessed multiple shootings by federal immigration agents — including the killing of 37-year-old Renée Nicole Good on January 7 and, most recently, the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on January 24, both in circumstances that remain intensely contested. Video evidence and independent analysis raise serious questions about the official narratives that these individuals posed imminent threats when they were killed — questions that demand transparency, accountability, and independent review.  Protesters and community members have repeatedly stated that these were citizens exercising their rights to observe and document enforcement activity, not domestic terrorists. 

The deployment of thousands of federal immigration agents under Operation Metro Surge — including ICE and Border Patrol personnel — has sparked widespread unrest, legal challenges, and calls from Minnesota leaders for federal de-escalation.  In response to these deaths and the mounting tension, many Minnesotans — including business leaders, civil rights advocates, and faith communities — have called for an immediate reduction of federal enforcement presence and for investments in humane, rights-respecting policies that protect both community safety and civil liberties. 

From a faith perspective, numerous religious leaders and organizations have spoken prophetically in this moment. The United Methodist Council of Bishops issued a statement condemning the violence as “evil actions perpetuated by governmental authorities” and affirming the sacred worth of every person and the way of peace, urging care for neighbors and a rejection of fear-based tactics.  The Episcopal Church leadership in Minnesota has likewise lamented the killing of civilians during federal enforcement operations and called for responses rooted in justice, compassion, and respect for human dignity.  These voices remind us that human life is not measured by policy objectives alone but by the inherent dignity we are called to uphold in our laws and enforcement practices.

As your constituent, I respectfully urge you to:

1. Support legislation to cease or sharply condition federal funding for ICE operations that have resulted in loss of innocent life and widespread civil unrest.
2. Demand robust, independent investigations into the killings of Renée Good and Alex Pretti — including full release of video evidence and witness interviews — with accountability for any misuse of force.
3. Advance policies that prioritize de-escalation, protection of civil liberties, and humane immigration enforcement — rather than militarized tactics that undermine community trust and safety.
4. Use your oversight authority to ensure that federal law enforcement agencies are acting within constitutional boundaries and respect the rights of all U.S. citizens and residents.

Our nation is strongest when it protects life, upholds justice, and honors the dignity of every human being — principles cherished across faith traditions and rooted profoundly in Christian teaching about peace, justice, and love of neighbor. I urge you to reflect these values in your leadership and public policy decisions.

Thank you for your attention to this crucial matter. I look forward to your response and action.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Steve West

Birmingham, Alabama 

NATO Unity Protection Act

I sent this letter to my senators and congressman. I am making it a public letter because this is too important not to.

If you are against invading and taking over Greenland, and in favor of international law, I encourage you to do the same.

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Dear Senator/Congressman,

I write to you as a constituent and as someone deeply concerned with the moral responsibilities that accompany public leadership—especially in matters of peace, restraint, and our obligations to one another in the community of nations.

I respectfully urge you to support the bipartisan NATO Unity Protection Act, sponsored by Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Senator Lisa Murkowski. This legislation offers an important safeguard by prohibiting the use of U.S. funds for any blockade, occupation, or annexation of NATO territory, including Danish territory such as Greenland.

At its heart, this bill is not only about geopolitics or procedure. It is about honoring promises, resisting the misuse of power, and choosing cooperation over coercion. Our alliances—particularly NATO—have long served as instruments of collective security precisely because they are grounded in mutual trust and shared commitments. When those commitments are placed at risk, the consequences extend far beyond borders; they touch the moral credibility of our nation.

Scripture reminds us that “blessed are the peacemakers,” and that leaders are called to serve not by force, but by wisdom and faithfulness. In a world already burdened by conflict and instability, Congress has an opportunity to affirm that the United States seeks strength through partnership, peace through accountability, and leadership through integrity.

I believe the NATO Unity Protection Act sends a steady and hopeful message: that the United States remains committed to diplomacy, international law, and the careful stewardship of power. I hope you will support this measure and help ensure its passage. Simply put, it’s imperative.

Thank you for your service and for considering this appeal. I would be grateful to know your position on this legislation.

With respect,

Rev. Steve West

Birmingham, AL 35210

International Law

 I don’t think of myself as partisan but as a Christian ethicist. I don’t think one party is wrong or that the other party is right about everything. Some issues are too complex for one sided solutions. There’s a lot of gray in a world of black and white. There should be more listening, less shouting. 

But when it comes to lives being at stake, I must speak out. Once again, I wrote my senators and congressman. I’m making it a public letter by sharing it with you. 

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Dear Senator/Congressman,

I am writing to implore you, during these times, to stand with both Republicans and Democrats in Congress for the importance of international law.

It is my understanding that President Trump said in an interview published Thursday there was only “one thing” to limit his global power. “My own morality. My own mind. It’s the only thing that can stop me.” He added: “I don’t need international law.”

This is extremely dangerous. We need you to stand up, now.

President Trump’s rejection of international law — the framework the US has for generations advocated to avoid wars between major powers and protect the sovereignty of lesser ones — could make the world more dangerous. Nations such as Russia and China have demonstrated in Ukraine and the South China Sea that they will flout global norms. By joining them, Trump could further embolden US foes.

Plans to “run” countries in our hemisphere and aspirations regarding Greenland, regardless of the charter principles of NATO or the people of Greenland’s desires, further degrade our position with our own allies.

The checks and balances and constitution of the United States are all indeed intended to limit the power of the president. Please do what you can to take your responsibility seriously. We elected you to represent all of us, not just your base.

Sincerely, 

Rev. Dr. Steve West

Chaplain, Fair Haven Methodist Home for the Aging

Unity and Inclusivity

 "Only love is trustworthy; only love is credible," said the pope. "While unity attracts, division scatters."

Amen. This is why I chose to remain in the United Methodist Church.

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