Challenging White Christian Nationalism: Interfaith Roots and Resistance

The violent insurrection of January 6, 2021 is the most striking example of the perilous threat posed by White Christian Nationalism, as supporters of Donald Trump’s “Big Lie” stormed the U.S. Capitol in an effort to overturn democracy. However, the phenomenon is deeply rooted in American history, particularly in the “original sin” of virulent racism. White supremacy, a distorted vision of Christianity and Christian dominance, and American exceptionalism” are the pillars that underlie this aggressive and formidable idolatry.

Earlier this year, the Michigan Coalition for Human Rights (MCHR) sponsored a discussion on White Christian Nationalism, featuring a distinguished panel of local leaders in their respective faiths, who are also respected peace and justice activists:

• Rabbi Jeffrey Falick of the Congregation of Humanistic Judaism

• Saeed Khan, who teaches Islamic and Middle East History at Wayne State University

• Rev. Rich Peacock, retired Methodist Pastor and Co-Chair of Peace Action of Michigan

• Kim…