Abstract

This chapter explores the spiritually ambiguous identity of the jobs movement Turnaround Tuesday (TAT), and how it is reflective of Baltimore City’s history of utilizing the church as a reactive force against structural violence. Due to long-lasting effects of segregation, black Baltimoreans continue to struggle with generational poverty, high incarceration rates, and limited employment options. Congregations have repeatedly taken their concerns to city hall and have made progress in resolving some of these issues. Today, however, when unaffiliated Americans make up the largest religious group in the United States, this model of organizing is quickly losing influence. Developed through interviews, observations, and historical analysis, the scope of this case study raises questions about the role of faith in the community, not within an individual’s life. Striking a balance of church- and faith-based activism, Turnaround Tuesday is learning how to navigate contemporary questions of faith, while still fighting against the cyclical oppressions of the past.