African American Preachers and Politics

The book delves into the lives of Archibald J. Carey, Sr. and Jr., exploring their intertwining roles in ministry and politics, highlighting complex moral dilemmas.

In African American Preachers and Politics, the intertwined lives of Archibald J. Carey, Sr. and Archibald J. Carey, Jr. are explored, highlighting their dual roles as ministers and political figures in the African American community. Throughout the twentieth century, both father and son dedicated themselves to enhancing the spiritual and material conditions of their congregations in Chicago. Their ministry was not limited to the pulpit; they actively engaged in the political landscape, navigating the often murky waters of moral dilemmas that arose from their political alliances.

The senior Carey, serving as a bishop, aligned himself with Republican Mayor William Hale Thompson, presenting him as a friend to black voters. His tenure on the city's civil service commission was marked by efforts to improve job opportunities for local African Americans, though it was marred by allegations of unethical practices. Meanwhile, the junior Carey, also a Republican and an influential alderman, took on a significant role in the Eisenhower administration, advocating for anti-discrimination in employment and supporting black federal employees. His political connections, however, raised questions about his commitment to civil rights, especially given his associations with controversial figures like J. Edgar Hoover.

Ultimately, African American Preachers and Politics illustrates the complex interplay between faith and politics. Both Careys believed that engaging in politics was essential for empowering the black community, yet their experiences reveal the challenges and compromises that come with such endeavors. Their stories reflect the broader struggle of African American leaders to balance spiritual missions with the demands of political engagement.