Earl Ofari Hutchinson
“The problem with Christian nationalism is they claim that America should be a Christian nation. That it was founded to be a white Christian nation. We know, based on our Constitution, very clearly there is a separation of church and state. To say that Christian nationalism—which is a political movement, not a religious movement—should be tied into what is American is a little misleading.” Yes, Rob Reiner pulled no punches in an interview discussing the film he produced, In God & Country. The film was a damning indictment of the racism, hate, and vitriol of white Christian nationalists.
Yet the instant the horrific news hit that Rob and Michele Reiner were found stabbed to death in their home the tributes and accolades poured in. In nearly all cases they came from Reiner’s many friends, associates, and film and business partners, and other film industry notables that knew and worked with him through the years. There was some mention of Reiner’s civil rights and early child education advocacy. But it was just that—mention.
It should have been and must be the front and center focus when assessing Reiner’s true legacy. Reiner and Michele were dedicated and passionate fighters for civil rights and human rights. Their unyielding commitment to the advancement of civil rights for LGBTQ and minorities within and without the film and entertainment industry was well-known and deeply honored. Reiner’s assault on the danger of white nationalism, the MAGA Nation crowd, and the grave peril to democracy were an intimate part of his fearless advocacy.
He and his wife could easily have as so many in the entertainment industry do just enjoyed their well-deserved fame and wealth within the film and entertainment industry. However, they chose to do much more and accomplish much more in the crucial area of civil rights advocacy and education. Their financial contributions combined with their passionate activism set a high standard for activism for civil and human rights within and without the industry. That activism should again send the strong message that civil rights advocacy by top flight personalities such as Rob and Michele will always be encouraged and honored.
That is how the other Rob Reiner should and must be remembered.
Earl Ofari Hutchinson is an author and political analyst. His latest book is “Why are There So Many Hungry People in America? (Middle Passage Press) He is the publisher of thehutchinsonreport.net.