We Live In Color returns for 2023 with Pastor Jamell Witherspoon

Deaunte Damper made his on-screen return for 2023 as Central District native Pastor Jamell Witherspoon joined him on We Live In Color. The show featured a conversation about what true inclusion looks like within the community and religion.

Witherspoon talked about his time both in Seattle and in Montgomery, Alabama, where he said he discovered himself.

“That time in Montgomery was such a gift,” Witherspoon said. “I realized that I didn’t have to be what I thought I needed to be in order for people to really love me,” Witherspoon said.

Witherspoon said growing up, he struggled to figure out who he was and to fit into what is considered “normal” in society.

“What happens is that there’s this idea and agenda push by folks who find themselves in leadership to create what now is normal society,” Witherspoon said.

Witherspoon also talked about the role of religion in his life and the idea of acceptance.

“I had a passion for prayer,” Witherspoon said. “I had a passion for doing what God called me to do.”

He told the story of some of the best singers in Montgomery deciding to join his ministry, and feeling intimidated by their talent. He discovered, though, that they needed him just as much as he needed them.

“The one thing that I had that they needed was the power of my prayer,” Witherspoon said. “We prayed together, walked together and cried together.”

He also spoke about acceptance within the Church community as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

“Although folks may not have always understood, not many have doubted who God has called me to be,” Witherspoon said. “Although folks may not agree, I haven’t really heard anyone deny it.”

Witherspoon says that experience has helped many individuals, and that the power inclusive ministry holds is very important.

“We meet people where they are,” Witherspoon said. “And we’re not afraid to be who we are.”

You can watch the full interview above and find out more about We Live In Color here