ADL labels Christian Identity movement as hate group amidst backlash

In the United States, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) faced significant backlash after identifying the Christian Identity movement as extremism, hate, or terrorism. The ADL defines this group as a loosely organized movement that deviates significantly from mainstream Christianity, with beliefs that include offensive views about Jews and non-whites, which it classifies as virulently antisemitic. This characterization stirred anger among certain conservative circles, particularly among figures associated with the MAGA movement, who perceive the labeling of Christian Identity as a direct attack on Christianity itself. On September 10, amidst growing tensions regarding violence against religious communities in the U.S., a conservative activist was shot while speaking at an event. This incident and others, including a mass shooting at a Catholic School in Minneapolis that left two children dead, have fueled concerns about violence against different religious groups. The ADL noted that its classification of Christian Identity aimed to highlight the group's extremist ideologies rather than paint all Christians with a broad brush. Many involved in the MAGA movement, however, took offense, claiming that mainstream Christianity was being unfairly targeted through the ADL's classification. Elon Musk and several Republican representatives voiced their dissent on social media, arguing that the ADL’s characterization of Christian Identity could unfairly label all Christians as extremists. Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna stated that the ADL was initiating a targeted hate campaign against Christians, a sentiment echoed by other conservative leaders who shared similar screengrabs of the ADL's classification. In response to the backlash, the ADL clarified its position, stressing that Christian Identity is not relevant to mainstream Christian beliefs and that its organization does not harbor anti-Christian sentiments. In light of the controversy, the ADL decided to retire its Glossary of Extremism, stating that many entries were outdated and had been misrepresented. This decision came after a number of prominent conservative voices criticized the glossary entries. The ADL emphasized that their undertakings in identifying hate and extremism are intended to protect vulnerable communities rather than instigate division among faith groups. As debates continue around this topic, it remains to be seen whether the backlash from MAGA figures will influence broader public perception of the ADL's mission as an anti-hate organization.