The rising power of illiberal religious and political movements is threatening both religious freedom and democracy. These resources are a starting point to understanding the threat and what our theological response can be.

Understanding Fascism and Christian Nationalism

There are many types of illiberal movements, so it’s helpful to understand the differences.

• Authoritarianism is a government where a person or small group of people are in charge without having any accountability to the people being governed. In an oligarchy, the small group rules to protect and promote their financial interests.
• Totalitarianism is authoritarianism that also imposes an ideology that controls the culture and private lives of the citizens.
• Fascism is a kind of authoritarianism where the ideology requires loyalty—backed by the threat of force—to a particular identity, often based on race, ethnic background, religion, or nation.
• Christian Nationalism is fascism that combines the ideologies of White Supremacy, patriarchy, and parasitic capitalism supported by a common “Christian” identity (rather than the teachings of the historical Jesus).

What Is Happening Now

Presidential Orders, UU Values, and the ConstitutionA Timely Summary Report for UU Leaders

From Resilience Hub

This summary report sorts through the flood of presidential orders, and their impact on UU justice priorities, with resources for responses for UU Communities. Priorities include Immigration & Refugees, DEI & Accessibility, Trans Rights.

Presidential Orders Summary

2023 Berry Street Essay on Fascism

In her 2023 Berry Street essay, the Rev. Cecilia Kingman reflected upon the rise of authoritarianism, right-wing ideology, and fascism both within Unitarian Universalism and in the wider world.

• View/Read the 2023 Berry Street Essay: My Little Pony Was Right: Fascisms Without and Within by The Reverend Cecilia Kingman
• Read the July, 2023 UUWorld editorial Defeating Fascism.

Congregational Resources

• Combating Fascisms Without & Within: An Organized UU Response (see below)
• Courage, Risk, & Safety: Preparing for Right-Wing Threats  (see below)
• Faith Out Loud: Naming & Claiming Faith-Rooted Organizing (see below)
• Learning to Flock as a Faith – A Congregational Case Study (see below)
• Power & Relationship Mapping Your Community (see below)

Providing Care and Connection to UUs in Targeted Populations

• BIPOC UU Communities: Resources and Support for Black, Indigenous and People of Color
• Resources and Support for Transgender and Non-Binary People