“We the people . . .” So begins the familiar first line to the Preamble of the United States Constitution. But even in its initial context, in a document intended to be a manifesto of hope and freedom, the matter of who exactly was to be included in this “we” was unclear and contested. First-person pronouns (i.e., I and we) roll off the tongue–or onto parchment paper–with ease, but their common use often belies an underlying complexity. Who am I? Who are we? Who does my theology say that I am?
Identity is at the same time essential to life and yet also deeply contested, problematic, and enigmatic. The world may be becoming more one and, yet, it seems also to be becoming more different, fragmented, agonistic, and isolated. In this issue of The Other Journal, we will explore the valences of identity, both individual and communal, personal and public. We will take up the theme of identity in multiple ways, examining its interconnections with sexuality, pluralism and authenticity, the dissolution and reconstitution of borders, racial divisions, and, yes, even the 2016 presidential campaign.
In this interview with Judith Butler, we consider her work in light of the recent events at Standing Rock and the 2016 presidential election.
Julie M. Hamilton views the embodied art of Lia Chavez in the light of ancient spiritual practices.
Angela Parker rethinks the idea of “angry black women” through her reading of the biblical character Herodias.
Jason Byassee finds religion reemerging in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Willow Mindich explores how memory affects our understanding of truth and the self.
In this poem by T. M. Lawson, a woman visits her mother in the hospital to say goodbye.
Peter Herman’s depression helps him nurture empathy and compassion with those who suffer most under a racist regime.
Kimberly Humphrey ponders her husband’s name change and the difference marriage makes for discipleship.
Katherine James contemplates the fleetingness of beauty as she faces cancer and aging.
