Christian Magazine Seeks Immigration Stories Against Trump Policies


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Christianity Today, the evangelical magazine founded by Billy Graham, has recently drawn attention for its shifting editorial stance, particularly regarding immigration policy during the Trump administration.

According to Daily Wire culture reporter Megan Basham, who obtained email evidence, Christianity Today’s executive editor Marvin Olasky actively sought stories about immigration enforcement’s impact before Trump’s inauguration. In an email to contributors, Olasky wrote, “We have reporters in New York, Chicago, Washington, and other cities who will be covering what happens to immigrants and refugees beginning on Jan. 20, but I’d like to have someone on the ground in or near cities like Minneapolis, Denver, Tampa, Atlanta, Nashville, San Francisco, Boston and others.”

The editor specifically requested coverage of “raids on businesses or schools, separation of parents and children, hurried flights out of the country, churches declaring themselves sanctuaries, etc.”

Basham highlighted that this editorial direction appeared one-sided, neglecting perspectives from those supporting stricter immigration policies or those negatively affected by illegal immigration. “What these stories will do is create an impression that Christians stand opposed to the very immigration policies that they overwhelmingly voted for,” she wrote.

This editorial approach extends beyond immigration. The publication has also promoted COVID-19 vaccination campaigns and critical race theory discussions. Last year, Olasky urged Christians to “understand the mourning on the other side” following Roe v. Wade’s reversal.

Financial considerations may influence this editorial direction. Basham revealed that Christianity Today received a $5 million grant from the left-leaning Lilly Endowment just before Trump’s inauguration. This funding relationship has raised questions about the publication’s editorial independence and its increasing alignment with progressive positions on various social issues.

The publication’s shift has reportedly diminished its standing among conservative evangelicals, who increasingly view its stance as disconnected from traditional evangelical positions on national sovereignty and immigration policy.