Telling the Story of Religion in Texas through Journalism

Religion is central to the story of Texas—but its rich complexity often goes untold. Texas is more than the “buckle of the Bible Belt.” It’s a dynamic mosaic of religions, from the largest number of evangelical Protestants in the U.S. to one of the largest Muslim populations, the second-largest Hindu population, and a rapidly growing group of Texans with no religious affiliation.

How is this diversity of faith represented in the media? What stories are being told—and what’s being overlooked?

Join Texas Tribune Events Tuesday, April 8 at Southern Methodist University in Dallas as they convene Texas journalists, public scholars, and community leaders to explore how religion shapes our state and how journalism captures its evolving role.

The daylong symposium is presented by the Institute for Diversity and Civic Life, Religion News Service, Southern Methodist University’s Department of Religious Studies and The Texas Tribune. The event is sponsored by The Eula May & John Baugh Foundation, The Henry Luce Foundation and Humanities Texas.

Together, we’ll:

• Survey the current state of religion reporting in Texas.
• Examine religion’s importance in telling the full story of Texas.
• Highlight underrepresented communities, issues, and perspectives.
• Discuss journalism’s role in shaping public understanding of faith.

The symposium will be held at SMU’s Moody Auditorium at Frances Anne Moody Hall, 6404 Airline Road, Dallas, TX 75205.

Light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Register here.