Racial and Religious Convergences and Divergences among Christian Students’ Approaches to Color‐Blindness, Color‐Cognizance, and Race in Christian Organizations

Abstract

AbstractDrawing on survey data of Christian students (N = 4261) enrolled at 11 colleges that are part of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, we examine color‐blindness, different types of color‐cognizance, and views on race in Christian organizations. We find significant differences between students of color and White students in color‐blindness and color‐cognizance but find racial convergence in the importance of racial reconciliation. Net of controls, greater evangelical orthodoxy is associated with color‐cognizant views that perceive prejudicial treatment against White people, undercut the experiences of people of color, and is associated with more positive views of Christian organizations’ roles in race relationships. Concurrently, upper year students differ significantly from first years in their racial attitudes and views on race in Christian organizations, suggesting that Christian education may shape racial views positively. Our findings have implications for theorizing how evangelical Christianity and evangelical colleges maintain and challenge color‐blindness and White supremacy.