Lawmakers from both political parties in Maine are denouncing a recent demonstration by a neo-Nazi group and are calling for legislation to combat their intimidation tactics. The protest, held by the hate group NSC-131, took place in Augusta and is the most recent incident in a string of activities by the group throughout New England. Lawmakers believe it is necessary to update existing laws to address the current challenges posed by these extremist groups. They want to find a balance between deterring hate speech and protecting individuals’ freedom of speech rights.
The protest on Saturday involved roughly two dozen masked men who demonstrated outside the State House and in front of the governor’s mansion. Videos shared on social media showed participants making Nazi salutes and carrying a banner with the message Keep New England White. Similar marches have taken place in Portland and Lewiston in recent months.
One of the leaders at the Augusta march was identified as Christopher Pohlhaus, a well-known Neo-Nazi who purchased land in the town of Springfield last year and has been actively recruiting others to join him. Pohlhaus was featured in an investigation by the Press Herald, which highlighted the increase in white nationalist and Neo-Nazi sentiment in Maine and New England.
Various national organizations monitoring hate groups agree that New England has become a hotbed of white supremacist activity. In Maine alone, white supremacist activity increased by 50% in just one year, according to a report by the Anti-Defamation League. Hate groups are capitalizing on broader issues such as opposition to pandemic safety measures and advocacy for transgender rights to attract new recruits, particularly through online platforms like Gab and Telegram.
Lawmakers and law enforcement agencies are concerned about the potential for violence and the targeting of specific groups during these demonstrations. While open carry is allowed in Maine, legislators believe that when demonstrators are carrying weapons and directing their actions at a specific group, it crosses the line into intimidation.
In response to the recent demonstration, lawmakers are calling for legislation to address the rise of hate groups in Maine. They aim to ensure that law enforcement is equipped to prevent intimidation and maintain public safety. Although some law enforcement officials and prosecutors argue that hate speech alone is not a crime, others believe that a proactive approach is necessary to prevent further escalation into violence.
Lawmakers are determined to show that there is no place for white supremacy, anti-Semitism, or any form of hate in Maine. They want to stand with the majority of Mainers who reject ideologies of hatred and intolerance. The goal is to push back against these extremist groups and demonstrate that the state is united against them.
Prominent Republicans, including House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross, have also condemned the recent protest and are advocating for a zero-tolerance approach towards white nationalist groups. They believe that such behavior and intimidation have no place in Maine, and they are committed to campaigning against racism and hate.
Moving forward, lawmakers are planning to engage in conversations with law enforcement to develop legislation that addresses the rise of hate groups and ensures the safety of communities. By taking a proactive approach, Maine aims to combat and condemn the actions of extremist groups, while upholding the values of freedom of speech and inclusivity.
