November 29th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

Preachers to Coal Miners in West Virginia and independent churches were central to the unionization of miners in the 1930s during the periods of violence between mine owners and miners over working conditions and wages.  Richard Callahan, associate professor of religious studies, says religion’s connection to the labor struggle is evident in everything from union meetings in churches to prayer on picket lines…

   

“Religion is not on one side or another, so to speak. But people turn to religion and use religion to navigate change, to find purpose and meaning, and as a resource for identity and community."