Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Dr. Tony Gaskew

Abstract

AbstractThe purpose of this qualitative dissertation was to examine the feasibility of white supremacist and white nationalist organizations’ abilities to alter their appearance and gain increased support in White American society. Nationalist agendas pushed by mainstream political platforms have been used by white supremacist and white nationalist organizations to alter their appearance and embed themselves into a political environment that has seen the former President of the United States Donald Trump and congressional representatives openly associating with known and self-proclaimed white nationalists. The research question included the understanding the perspectives of two civil rights organizations who work to address white supremacy and white nationalism. Ten interviews were analyzed to identify codes that were then analyzed to uncover themes. Five themes that emerged included political environment, nationalism, changing appearance, Christian nationalism, and internationalist movements. Results provided insight into a relatively new public threat known as “accelerationism” and it clearly reflects the role the American political environment can play in aiding the growth of white supremacy and white nationalism. Implications for positive social change include better understanding of the methods and strategies deployed by racist organizations to increase membership, become more active in society, and contribute to the growth of hate and violence that can destabilized society.

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