A Concise Introduction to Christian Nationalism For millions of Americans, the January 6th insurrection demonstrated the potent threats our nation faces from antidemocratic forces. While the mob that attacked the U.S. Capitol included self-identified Proud Boys, Three Percenters, and other far right groups, some of the most indelible images from that day prominently featured religious symbols and language. In the aftermath, many are coming to understand the threat of Christian nationalism for the first time. Interfaith Alliance is a national advocacy organization that champions an inclusive vision of religious freedom, protective of people of all faiths and none. Americans adhere to nearly 3,000 religious and spiritual traditions, protected by the First Amendment right to believe as we choose without fear of discrimination or harm. The Establishment Clause safeguards this diversity of belief by setting out the expectation that the government won’t play favorites among religious traditions or favor religion over nonreligion. Christian nationalism rejects these constitutional guarantees, instead seeking to privilege Christians above all others. Drawing on recent scholarship and thought leadership around religion, the First Amendment, and racial justice, this primer offers an introduction to this ideology and the distinct threat its proponents pose to our pluralistic democracy.
“White Christian nationalism is one of the oldest and most powerful currents in American politics. But until the insurrection, it was invisible to most Americans.” – SAMUEL PERRY & PHILIP GORSKY, The Flag and the Cross