When Faith Becomes a Flag: The Rise of Christian Nationalism in the US & UK

Monday 10 November 18.00 – 19.00

Lucy Cavendish College, Lady Margaret Rd, Cambridge CB3 0BU

As political and cultural boundaries blur between faith and nation, Christian nationalism has re-emerged as a powerful and sometimes polarising force across both the United States and the United Kingdom. What was once seen as a marginal ideology is now shaping mainstream conversations about identity, democracy, and belonging.

In the United States, religion and politics have become increasingly intertwined, with appeals to Christian values featuring more prominently in civic life. In the United Kingdom, while the expressions may be subtler, similar questions are being raised about how Christianity continues to influence ideas of heritage, nationhood, and moral authority. The growing visibility of faith in political spaces invites us to ask what role religion should play in defining who “we” are — and who is included in that “we.”

This one-hour event brings together researchers, practitioners, and students to explore the historical roots, contemporary forms, and social consequences of Christian nationalism. The evening will begin with short presentations from the speakers, followed by a chaired panel discussion and audience Q&A.

Together, we’ll consider:
•⁠ ⁠How and why Christian nationalism is gaining traction today
•⁠ ⁠What its rise means for democracy, inclusion, and interfaith relations
•⁠ ⁠How communities and institutions can respond to questions of faith and national identity in a plural society

Join us for an evening of conversation and reflection on how religion, culture, and politics continue to shape one another — and what that means for the future of public life in the US, the UK, and beyond.

The event is taking place in the Reception Rooms at Lucy Cavendish College.

Presented by

Leo Taylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-taylor-150916217/
Jeeves Rohilla: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeeves-rohilla-b730bb220/

Panelists:

Hannah Peterson: https://research.sociology.cam.ac.uk/profile/hannah-peterson-2023
Dr Marietta van der Tol: https://www.divinity.cam.ac.uk/staff/dr-marietta-van-der-tol
Chaired by: Aidan Scully: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aidan-scully/