Westar is privileged to host this webinar with Katherine Stewart, a leading expert on the intersection of faith and politics, especially in light of the pressing issues our nation faces today. 

What is Christian Nationalism? 

Christian nationalism is a political ideology that seeks to define America as a Christian nation, often at the expense of the separation of church and state. It is rooted in the belief that the United States was founded on Christian principles and that the government should actively promote and protect these principles. Katherine Stewart explains that Christian nationalism is not simply about personal faith or church attendance. Instead, it is a movement that uses religious rhetoric to gain political power, often advocating for policies that align with conservative Christian values. This includes efforts to influence laws on issues like abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, education, and religious freedom, frequently at the expense of pluralism and democratic principles. Stewart emphasizes that understanding Christian nationalism is crucial for grasping the dynamics of today's political conflicts. While the movement has evolved significantly since the days of the Moral Majority in the 1980s, public understanding has not always kept pace with its growth. By unpacking the strategies and goals of Christian nationalism, Stewart provides a critical lens through which to view the ongoing battles over the soul of American democracy.

Katherine Stewart is a journalist and author who has been writing at the intersection of faith and politics for over 15 years. She is widely recognized for her incisive analysis of the rise of Christian nationalism in the United States. Stewart's work has appeared in major publications such as The New York Times, The New Republic, The Guardian, and The Nation, among others. Her deep investigative reporting has shed light on the ways religious extremism influences American politics and public policy.

"The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism" is one of her most significant contributions to this field. The book, published in 2020, quickly gained viral attention for its comprehensive exploration of Christian nationalism—a movement that seeks to merge American identity with a particular brand of Christianity. Stewart meticulously documents how this movement is not just about religion but is a political force aimed at reshaping the nation’s laws, public education, and civil rights.

Since its release, "The Power Worshippers" has been widely discussed in both academic and political circles, bringing critical awareness to the dangers posed by the intertwining of religious extremism and political power. The book has been praised for its thorough research, engaging narrative, and its urgent message about the threats to democracy.

We invite you to join us for this important event as we delve into the complexities of Christian nationalism and its impact on American society.

Westar members get free access to this webinar! Not a member yet? Visit westarinstitute.org/join-westar to learn more and join today.