A sign at the Bristol May Day protest rally read, “I’m Terrified!” echoing the feelings of most, if not all of us gathered along West Street and around the corner on North Street. I was heartened to see so many of us together and hope began to overcome my terror. In the evening, I participated in a Zoom conversation about “White Christian Nationalism” and “I’m terrified!” became all too real again.

Episcopal priest The Rev. Dr. Carter Hayward described the “Christian” in Christian Nationalism, or White Christian Nationalism, as incidental. In fact, she said that the movement is a political power grab by primarily white men who believe that only white men should run the country. Many white men of great wealth, including Donald Trump and JD Vance, also adhere to the principles of Christian Nationalism. Rev. Dr. Hayward continued to describe what is happening in the current administration, because of these deep-seated principles, as “Ill-liberal Democracy.” This “Ill-liberal Democracy” destroys democracy without arousing resistance by citizens who are not aware of or cannot believe that this destruction is happening.

As a response to this movement in our nation, Dr. Hayward echoed the speech given by the Illinois governor in New Hampshire, saying: “We must fight like hell!” against it.

As a Christian I call on individual churches and associations of churches to speak out now! As a citizen and community member I call on every person and organization to speak out now (!) against this deconstruction and destruction of our nation by wealthy white men in power who want to make us all terrified.

When the rallies grow larger, the voices louder, and the peaceful disruption of these destructive tactics are more visible, I hope those of us who were terrified, will be holding signs that read: “Together we are strong; Together we find courage; Together we have hope!”

And hope overcomes terror.

Patti Welch

Bristol