Neo-Nazi Rallies Surge in Florida, Signaling a Disturbing Trend
In a disturbing trend, Florida has seen a surge in neo-Nazi rallies, raising concerns about the rise of extremist ideologies in the state. The rallies, which occurred just one week after the racially motivated murder of three Black people in Jacksonville, reflect a new wave of neo-Nazis who are increasingly eager for street violence.
One of the rallies took place at Disney World and was organized by the Order of the Black Sun, a local neo-Nazi group. Although the gathering only drew about a dozen people, it is alarming that similar events occur nearly every month at Disney World, a popular tourist destination.
However, the more significant rally took place in Altamonte Springs, a suburb of Orlando. Advertised as The March of the Red Shirts, this rally saw the participation of at least 50 individuals, including groups like Blood Tribe and Goyim Defense League. Attendees dressed in red shirts and black masks, and proudly displayed a large swastika flag. It is worth noting that it has been many years since such a large-scale rally, featuring explicit Nazi imagery, has taken place in the United States.
Blood Tribe, in particular, stands out as a group that operates more like a politicized gang rather than a traditional organization. Led by Christopher Pohlhaus, known as The Hammer, Blood Tribe has made its presence known through disruptive actions targeting marginalized communities. Its members have engaged in acts of violence and intimidation, as seen during their homophobic outbursts at an LGBTQ+ event in Ohio.
The surge in neo-Nazi rallies in Florida can be attributed, in part, to the state’s increasingly conservative political climate led by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. His policies, which target LGBTQ+ individuals and education, have created an atmosphere that attracts far-right activists. It is alarming that Florida has become a hub for neo-Nazi activity, despite the scattered and small nature of the organizations involved.
The Goyim Defense League, another prominent group at the Orlando rally, has also undergone a shift in tactics. Previously focused on anti-Semitic propaganda, the group has now embraced explicit neo-Nazi symbolism, including the infamous 88 alphanumeric reference to Heil Hitler. The rally marked a transformation for the Goyim Defense League, as it aims to transition into a more serious on-the-ground political group.
It is important to highlight that these neo-Nazi groups are distinct from other far-right factions, such as the Proud Boys and Patriot Front. Unlike the Proud Boys, who have shifted their focus to supporting other far-right grassroots groups, the neo-Nazis in Florida actively seek confrontation and violence. They want to instill fear and are unapologetic about their extremist ideologies.
The rise of neo-Nazi rallies in Florida is not an isolated incident but rather a reflection of the robust state of the far right across the United States. This movement, fueled by anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment, has infiltrated school boards, banned books, and disrupted community events. With the upcoming elections, the far right is expected to gain momentum, especially if former President Donald Trump faces legal consequences.
As this new wave of neo-Nazis gains traction, it is crucial to closely monitor their activities and understand their tactics. Successfully countering their agenda requires a comprehensive understanding of each group’s strategies and a united effort to combat extremist ideologies. The fight against hate and intolerance must prevail to safeguard the principles of inclusivity and equality that form the foundation of a democratic society.
