Description
How to End Christian Nationalism addresses the alarming amplification of exclusionary rants to espouse certain political views from a Christian perspective. Author Amanda Tyler, a lead organizer of Christians Against Christian Nationalism, makes a compelling case for understanding the phenomenon that merges Christian and national identities to undermine democracy and produce violent outcomes for non-Christians. Tyler does well in establishing the foundation for defining Christian nationalism as a political ideology and cultural framework that is primarily not about religion but about ethno-national identity.
As a non-white immigrant woman of Filipino descent, I approached the book with a unique perspective. My Christian upbringing has given me a deep understanding of its teachings, values, and beliefs, which I found to be in stark contrast to the white nationalist discourse. I particularly valued Tyler’s insights in fearlessly confronting the racist and xenophobic political messages that have infiltrated white nationalism and Christianity.
Tyler makes solid points about upholding the separation of church and state as foundational to a thriving democracy. Readers of all faiths will learn how to discuss how this ideology conflicts with American history, the Constitution, and Christian teachings. She appeals to clergy, church administrators, and parishioners, emphasizing the importance of starting within one’s own community and church to address the harms of Christian nationalism.