Pastor Jamal Bryant Defends Wife's Attire and Advocates for Social Justice at New Year's Eve Service
Pastor Jamal Bryant recently addressed online criticism directed at his wife's attire during a New Year's Eve service at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta. He defended his wife, Dr. Karri Turner, against backlash over a dress she wore to a formal event, emphasizing that the focus should have been on the $4 million raised for the United Negro College Fund and HBCUs, rather than the dress itself.
Bryant clarified that the dress was not see-through but flesh-colored, debunking misconceptions spread by critics online. He asserted that the reaction reflected more on the critics than on the outfit and made it clear that he approved of the dress, stating, "I bought the dress. And I like it. She ain't married to y'all. She married to me! Mind your business!"
The pastor emphasized that Turner's attire was appropriate for the gala-style fundraiser she attended and that outside opinions should not dictate their marriage. Bryant underscored the importance of considering the context in which the dress was worn and redirected attention to broader issues such as Black unemployment, health care access, protections for undocumented communities, and education equity.
Following the service, Bryant shared a clip of his remarks on Instagram, signaling that the matter had been addressed. He used the opportunity to highlight the positive outcomes of the New Year's Eve service, including new church members and youth program participation. Bryant's advocacy for economic justice and corporate accountability, exemplified by his leadership in the "We Ain't Buying It" campaign, further solidifies his commitment to social causes and community engagement.