4th place — 2026 First in the Family essay contest: Angelle Jean-Pierre
FFRF awarded Angelle $2,000.
By Angelle Jean-Pierre
Christian nationalism presents itself as a movement to “restore” America’s religious values, but historically and politically it has often been tied to white supremacy.
At its core, white Christian nationalism promotes the idea that the United States was founded by and for white Christians and that political power should remain in their hands. This ideology is dangerous because it excludes religious minorities, immigrants, Black Americans and anyone who does not fit its narrow definition of a “real American.” It also threatens the constitutional principle of separation between church and state that protects democracy and religious freedom.
The connection between white supremacy and Christian nationalism is not new. During slavery and segregation, many churches and religious leaders defended racial hierarchy by claiming it was part of God’s plan. Even today, researchers have found strong links between Christian nationalist beliefs and anti-Black racism, anti-immigrant attitudes and hostility toward religious diversity.
According to a 2023 survey by the Public Religion Research Institute, most Christian nationalism adherents rejected the idea that white supremacy remains a major problem in the United States. The same study also found that supporters of Christian nationalism were significantly more likely to support authoritarian politics and discriminatory views toward immigrants and Muslims.
Christian nationalism is especially threatening to a secular democracy because it treats one religion as more “American” than others. The First Amendment was written to prevent exactly this kind of religious favoritism. When politicians argue that laws should be based on one specific interpretation of Christianity, they weaken the rights of people with different beliefs. A democracy can only function fairly when citizens are equal under the law regardless of race or religion. Christian nationalism undermines that equality by promoting the idea that white conservative Christians deserve special political and cultural power.
I find white Christian nationalism disturbing because it disguises intolerance as patriotism and faith. As someone who values diversity and democratic freedoms, I believe religion should inspire compassion rather than division. Seeing crosses displayed beside political slogans and extremist rhetoric makes me uncomfortable because Christianity’s message of love and justice becomes distorted into a tool for exclusion and control. For racial minorities and immigrant communities, this movement can create fear and alienation, especially when political leaders use religious language to justify discrimination.
America is strongest when it protects pluralism and equal rights. White Christian nationalism threatens those ideals by combining racial resentment with religious authority. History shows that when governments elevate one race or religion above others, freedom suffers. Defending secular democracy is not hostility toward religion; it is protection for everyone’s freedom to believe — or not believe — as they choose.
Angelle, 18, attends Howard University and is pursuing a career in medicine as a doctor.
