Introducing Back Talk with Dr. Maisha Handy
AUGUST 18, 2025
Audacious Faith. Bold Voices.
In a time marked by deep division, cultural transformation, and urgent moral questions, McCormick Theological Seminary is proud to introduce a new public series that meets the moment: Back Talk with Dr. Maisha Handy — a bold, womanist, 30-minute(ish) livestream interview series exploring theology, justice, leadership, and faith in practice.
Hosted by McCormick’s trailblazing president, Dr. Maisha Handy, Back Talk is anything but business as usual. With her unapologetically prophetic voice and decades of scholarship and ministry, Dr. Handy brings insight, heart, and urgency to the table alongside some of the most significant thinkers, activists, and faith leaders of our time.
Each episode of Back Talk will dive into:
Theological, historical, and contemporary insights —often viewed through a Presbyterian lens
Implications for theological education and the future of ministry in a changing world
Faith in action—how spiritual leadership can advance justice and spark societal transformation
This is more than conversation. It’s a call to reimagine how we show up—as people of faith, as educators, and as justice seekers.
PREMIERING SEPTEMBER 13 WITH THE RETURN OF MCCORMICK’S ARTISTS FORUM
We’re thrilled to launch Back Talk as part of McCormick’s Artists Forum on Saturday, September 13, with special guest Dr. Daniel Black — award-winning author, professor, and prophetic voice in Black literature and theology.
In this inaugural episode, Dr. Handy will sit down with Dr. Black for a rich conversation about his life’s work, his creative calling, and his bold vision for the future of faith, justice, and community. The livestreamed event will be followed by a Q&A and book signing of Dr. Black’s acclaimed novel, Don’t Cry for Me.
Registration is free and now open. We look forward to welcoming you to this powerful kickoff event.
TOPICS ON OUR MIND
In the months ahead, Back Talk will take on some of the most pressing and provocative issues shaping our communities and churches today. Upcoming episodes will tackle themes like the current migrant crisis and the captivating cultural collision between hip-hop and religion.
These are not easy conversations — but they are necessary ones. And McCormick is leaning in with audacity, with boldness, and with a deep belief in the power of faith to meet the needs of our times.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Back Talk will stream live monthly via McCormick’s Facebook page and then be available for on-demand viewing on our website and other streaming platforms. Follow along to be part of this dynamic new chapter in theological public witness.
This is Back Talk — where audacious faith meets bold voices.