This edition of From Our Eyes highlights Sahara Zúñiga Fernández, a student at Chapman University pursuing degrees in Sociology and Film & TV Production. Zúñiga, a research assistant, recently participated in a panel titled “Christian Nationalism, White Supremacy, and the Future of Democracy,” organized by the Institute for the Study of Religion, Economics, and Society and the Sociology Department.
The panel featured experts, including Dr. Andrew Whitehead, Dr. Heidi Beirich, and Dr. Joseph Baker, who discussed the implications of Christian Nationalism in the U.S. Zúñiga reflected on their interest in the intersection of religion and politics, influenced by their Catholic upbringing. They emphasized the complexity of personal identity formation, particularly how individuals often associate with existing narratives, which can inhibit open-mindedness.
Zúñiga expressed gratitude for attending such events that foster critical thinking and discussions aimed at understanding complex societal issues, highlighting the importance of community in navigating personal beliefs and broader societal challenges.
