In the ongoing battle against Christian nationalism, a significant demographic remains underrepresented: exvangelicals, nones, and secular Americans. Despite the increasing religious diversity in the United States, these groups are often overlooked in efforts to counteract the influence of Christian nationalism.
A recent study by Pew Research, published in January 2024, revealed that 28% of U.S. adults are now religiously unaffiliated, making the “nones” the largest religious cohort in the country, surpassing both Catholics and evangelical Protestants. This demographic shift highlights the growing presence of secular individuals in American society, yet their potential contributions to the fight against Christian nationalism are frequently ignored.
For nearly a decade, the podcast “Exvangelical” has provided a platform for individuals who have left the evangelical church. While some have found new faith-based communities in more liberal Christian denominations or other religions like Buddhism, many have adopted a wholly secular worldview. Progressive Christians have found representation through initiatives like Christians Against Christian Nationalism and the Faith & Democracy Tour. However, these efforts often focus on reforming conservative Christianity and reaffirming liberal faith, leaving secular exvangelicals out of the conversation.
This exclusion is problematic because Christian nationalist groups are well-organized, well-funded, and have significant representation in both the media and government. A strong coalition of religious and secular people is necessary to oppose these forces effectively. Those who have completely exited religion form a crucial part of this coalition. Whether they have left evangelicalism, Catholicism, or other faith traditions, they bring valuable knowledge and personal experience to the movement. Many have been directly harmed by Christian nationalism and understand the threat it poses intimately.
Exvangelicals and other formerly religious individuals embody a key trait essential to defeating Christian nationalism: the ability to change one’s mind. They demonstrate that it is possible to reject harmful beliefs once their negative impact is understood. While shifting to a more benevolent form of faith is valid, opting out of religion altogether is equally valid. These individuals still have as much at stake as anyone else and deserve a meaningful seat at the table in political conversations.
Chrissy Stroop, co-founder of the feminist media collective The Flytrap, emphasizes the need for mutual respect and inclusion. As a queer exvangelical atheist advocating for pluralism, Stroop often feels excluded by those with the largest platforms to discuss American secularization and the roles of religion in society. She argues that liberal and progressive Christians must check their Christian privilege and treat secular Americans as equals to work together effectively.
In conclusion, exvangelicals, nones, and secular Americans are an untapped force in the fight against Christian nationalism. Their inclusion is vital for building a strong, diverse coalition capable of challenging the well-organized and well-funded Christian nationalist groups. By recognizing and valuing the contributions of secular individuals, we can create a more inclusive and effective movement for a better country.
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