Welcome to Are You Just Watching?, the podcast where we bring critical thinking to entertained Christians. In today’s episode, I’m joined by special guest Andrew Rappaport, who is filling in for my usual co-host, Tim Martin. Andrew, a podcaster and host of The Rapp Report, joins me as we discuss Am I Racist?, the latest film from The Daily Wire, directed by Matt Walsh. This satirical documentary delves into the controversial world of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), shedding light on the hypocrisies and contradictions within the movement. Together, we analyze the film and explore how Christians can respond to cultural issues like racism with biblical truth.
Introduction to the Am I Racist? Movie
In this episode, Andrew and I discuss Am I Racist?, a satirical documentary from The Daily Wire that has stirred controversy in both political and entertainment circles. Despite facing negative reviews from mainstream outlets like Rotten Tomatoes, the film has seen success at the box office. We talk about the significance of this conservative film’s success and how Matt Walsh’s humorous approach stands out from the typical offerings in today’s movie landscape.
I found Am I Racist? to be both funny and insightful, particularly because it uses humor to challenge progressive narratives surrounding DEI. Andrew, who rarely watches movies, also enjoyed the film, especially the way Walsh manages to remain serious throughout intense conversations. This movie is a great example of how satire can be an effective tool in exposing cultural falsehoods while keeping the audience entertained.
Check out these appearances of Matt Walsh on TimCast IRL and Allie Beth Stuckey.
Is DEI a Cult?
A major theme we unpack is whether the DEI movement operates like a cult. Andrew highlights how DEI proponents often use manipulation techniques, including behavior control, information control, thought control, and emotional control. The film effectively exposes these tactics, showing how DEI training sessions push white participants to feel guilt solely based on their skin color.
In one notable scene, a bookstore employee refers to White Fragility as the “DEI Bible,” emphasizing how deeply ingrained these beliefs are in the movement. Much like a cult, DEI has its doctrines, sins (centered around whiteness), and a path to redemption through submission to its teachings. The parallels between DEI and cult-like behavior become clear as we explore how these ideologies manipulate their followers.
But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed. For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. (Galatians 1:8-10)
Exposing DEI Hypocrisy: Robin DiAngelo’s Moment of Truth
One of the most memorable scenes in Am I Racist? involves Matt Walsh interviewing White Fragility author Robin DiAngelo. In a brilliant display of satire, Walsh challenges DiAngelo to pay reparations directly to his black producer during the interview. At first, DiAngelo is clearly uncomfortable with the request, but after some hesitation, she hands over some money. This scene is a perfect example of how the film exposes the hypocrisy within the DEI movement. While its leaders advocate for redistributing wealth and privileges, they often resist when asked to lead by example.
This moment underscores a recurring theme in the movie: many DEI advocates demand societal change but are unwilling to make personal sacrifices. It’s a powerful critique of the movement, showing that much of what is preached is not practiced by its proponents.
Christian Ethics and Satire: Is It Wrong to Mock?
A common criticism from some Christian reviewers is that Am I Racist? feels “mean-spirited” or deceptive. Some argue that as Christians, we shouldn’t use satire or mockery, even when addressing harmful ideologies. This raises an important question—what role does satire play in our faith, and can it be used ethically?
Throughout the Bible, we see examples of strong language and satire being used to expose falsehoods. Jesus frequently confronted the Pharisees with harsh words (Matthew 12:34), and Elijah used sarcasm to mock the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:27). In the case of Am I Racist?, the satire isn’t mean-spirited, but rather a tool to reveal the absurdity and contradictions in the DEI movement. As Christians, we can use humor and satire to challenge false narratives, as long as we do so with a heart aimed at exposing truth, not tearing down others.
The Real Solution to Racism: The Gospel
As the film nears its end, Matt Walsh speaks to several black men who share their thoughts on racism. Their responses were simple but powerful: “If you want to end racism, stop identifying everything as black or white.” Another said, “I only read the Bible,” while another pointed out, “We all bleed the same.” These men are getting to the heart of the matter—real unity doesn’t come from divisive DEI training but from seeing each other as individuals created in God’s image.
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise. (Galatians 3:27-29)
In Christ, there are no racial or ethnic divisions. The only true answer to racism is the transformative power of the gospel.
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
The gospel is the ultimate solution to racism, offering a path to reconciliation, not just between people, but with God Himself.
Final Thoughts
This episode dives deep into Am I Racist?, a movie that challenges the status quo on race relations, DEI, and the role of satire in social commentary. I hope our discussion helps you think critically about how the world is framing these issues and reminds you that the gospel is the only true answer.
Check out this review of Am I Racist? on Striving for Eternity.
[Show notes drafted by ChatGPT from a transcript of the episode]
Are You Just Watching? is listener supported. Special thanks to our current patrons: Isaias Santillano, Craig Hardee, Stephen Brown II, David Lefton, and Peter Chapman for their generous support. We can't continue to share critical thinking for the entertained Christian without your financial help, so please head on over to our Patreon page and become one of our supporting patrons! What did you think of Am I Racist?? We would like to know, even if just your reactions to the trailer or the topics we shared in this episode. Or what general critical-thinking and entertainment thoughts or questions do you have? Would you like to suggest a movie or TV show for us to give a Christian movie review with critical thinking?Please support the podcast!
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