Members of the white supremacist group Patriot Front caused a stir near the Massachusetts State House, as they marched with a “Reclaim America” banner and chanted about “white pride.” The incident, which took place on a Saturday afternoon, was closely monitored by Boston police, who identified the group and observed their activities without making any arrests.
Witnesses, including Boston resident Katie Faraone, recounted the unsettling scene as they encountered the group of men across from the State House. Faraone described how the members used a megaphone to amplify their messages of “white pride” and their desire to “take back America.” A video circulating online captured the group, clad in khakis, navy shirts, and baseball caps, as they marched down Cambridge Street, brandishing flags and displaying their message for all to see.
The group, known for their provocative actions, has a history of causing controversy in Boston. In a previous incident in 2022, members of Patriot Front engaged in an unpermitted march through downtown Boston, during which they targeted and attacked a Black man near the Boston Public Library. This violent act resulted in a legal battle that recently concluded with a federal court awarding the victim over $2.7 million in damages.
The Rise of Patriot Front and Their Agenda
Patriot Front, a white supremacist organization with a penchant for flashy displays of patriotism, emerged as a splinter group from Vanguard America following the infamous “Unite the Right” rally in Charlottesville, Virginia in 2017. According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, Patriot Front is characterized by its obsession with imagery and its efforts to repackage fascist ideologies under the guise of patriotism. This rebranding strategy has allowed the group to attract members and gain attention for their extremist views.
Challenges of Addressing Hate Groups in Urban Areas
The presence of white supremacist groups like Patriot Front in urban centers like Boston poses unique challenges for law enforcement and local communities. The ability of these groups to organize and conduct public demonstrations, often without official permits, raises concerns about public safety and the potential for violence. In the case of Patriot Front, their brazen displays of hate and aggression have sparked outrage and calls for stronger measures to combat extremism in all its forms.
As Molly Farrar, a reporter covering various beats for Boston.com, continues to monitor developments related to hate groups and their activities, it is essential for the community to remain vigilant and united against all forms of discrimination and bigotry. By shedding light on the actions of groups like Patriot Front and holding them accountable for their harmful actions, we take a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all individuals.
