On Second Thought For Wednesday, July 20, 2016

A significant demographic change occurred in the past eight years since Barack Obama first ran for president in 2008. White Christians went from making up 54% of the country to comprising less than half. This decline is important in understanding today's political landscape, according to Robert Jones. Jones is the CEO of the Public Religion Research Institute and author of the new book, "The End of White Christian America." We speak with Jones about the political and social implications of this demographic shift. 

Is this the end of White Christian America? Joined by Robert Jones, CEO of the Public Religion Research Institute and author of the new book, "The End of White Christian America," we discuss the significance of this demographic change. In spirit of yesterday's show, we look at how a group is preserving the memory of Atlanta Olympics with pins. Plus, filmmaker and producer Bret Wood talks with us about "race films."

Then, we continue our conversation with Robert Jones. We talk about how the decline of white Christians impact political and social policies in the South. Plus, the memory of the Atlanta Olympics is still alive and well in the city. Back in 1996 the Varsity drive-in in downtown Atlanta was ground zero for Olympic pin trading. But the trading didn't stop when the Olympic flame was extinguished. We learn about a dedicated group who keeps the tradition who keeps the tradition going with monthly meetings where they buy, sell, and trade the little metal trinkets.

Also, Turner Classic Movies showcases the work of early African American filmmakers dating back to the 1920's. These "race films" were compiled by Atlanta filmmaker and producer Bret Wood, who talks with us about his work to preserve a golden age of cinema that's long been forgotten.