Far-right violence and terrorism – Fabruary 2024

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Introduction

In February 2024, the global landscape was marked by an alarming presence of terrorism linked to extreme right-wing ideologies. This analysis underscores the paramount significance of this issue in the contemporary world order.

Terrorism, irrespective of its ideological roots, has long posed a grave threat to international peace and security. Recent times, however, have witnessed a distinct shift in this threat landscape. The ascent of extreme right-wing terrorism has introduced a new layer of complexity to the global security equation.

This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of extreme right-wing terrorism in February 2024, offering insights into its evolution, and current manifestations. By dissecting the trends, causative factors, and ramifications of this phenomenon, our objective is to foster awareness and inform policymaking while fostering international collaboration to counter this growing menace.

United States

Neo-Nazi Rally Sparks Outrage in Nashville

A Neo-Nazi rally in downtown Nashville over the weekend has elicited condemnation from a local Jewish group and state lawmakers. Witness videos shared on social media depicted a small group of individuals donning red shirts and black masks, performing Nazi salutes, and brandishing a black swastika flag as they paraded through downtown streets in broad daylight. The marchers traversed prominent areas such as Broadway and the state capitol, chanting “Sieg Heil” and advocating for deportations.

The demonstrators, identified by their clothing bearing the phrase “Blood Tribe,” are associated with a Neo-Nazi group recognized by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) as “a growing Neo-Nazi group” officially founded in 2021. The ADL reported that Blood Tribe conducted marches in several states in 2023. Lawmakers from both parties, including Republican Governor Bill Lee and House Majority Leader Rep. William Lamberth, condemned the rally, emphasizing that Nazism and antisemitism should never be tolerated. The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville labeled the demonstrators as “cowardly” and reported being in contact with law enforcement, although no arrests were made during the march.

Colorado Springs Couple facing federal charges after plans to build “White supremacist” school

A man convicted on federal weapons charges is alleged to have been planning to establish a school promoting white supremacist ideology in rural Fremont County. Chad Keith, 42, was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for possession of firearms by a prohibited person. His wife, Rebecca Duncan, also faces similar federal charges related to weapons found in their residences.

While Duncan denies their affiliation with white supremacy, stating that Keith identified as a “national socialist,” FBI documents indicate otherwise. According to court records, Keith was found in possession of 11 firearms, and a confidential informant informed investigators of Keith’s alleged plans to create a “White-only community” on their rural property. Duncan insists their plans were still tentative at the time of Keith’s arrest, emphasizing that the school’s primary focus would have been on survivalist skills, with firearms training being a component.

Antisemitic Rant Sparks Outrage at Walnut Creek City Council Meeting

During a Walnut Creek City Council meeting, a man wearing a “white power” T-shirt and swastikas launched into a hate-filled, antisemitic tirade during the public comment period. He accused council members of suppressing free speech at the behest of Jewish supremacists, using vulgar language and antisemitic slurs. The man, also wearing symbols associated with Neo-Nazis, expressed disdain for the council’s actions and threatened legal action while delivering his vitriolic speech. Despite California’s Brown Act requiring in-person opportunities for public comments, remote commenting had been available during the pandemic. The man concluded his remarks with a Nazi salute and further antisemitic slurs.

In response, Councilmember Wilk condemned the hateful speech, emphasizing the necessity to confront such rhetoric. The incident is not isolated, as a similar antisemitic episode involving a caller identifying as “Scottie” occurred previously, highlighting a pattern of coordinated hate speech. Law enforcement presence has been increased at council meetings to ensure the safety of attendees in light of these events.

Michigan Republican Stripped of Roles Over Racist Conspiracy Theory Post

Michigan Republican Representative Josh Schriver was stripped of his legislative roles and staff after sharing a meme promoting the racist “Great Replacement” conspiracy theory. This theory, associated with white supremacy and antisemitism, suggests that wealthy Jews are replacing Western whites with people of color. Michigan House Democratic Leader Joe Tate condemned Schriver’s post as “blatantly racist” and “deplorable,” removing him from various committees and his staff.

The backlash sparked divisions among Republican lawmakers, with some defending Schriver and others condemning his actions. Matt Maddock praised him as a “great man,” while Donni Steele urged politicians to condemn hate in all its forms. Senator John Damoose stated that such ideas have no place in politics or culture, emphasizing the importance of rejecting intolerant discourse in society.

Neo-Nazis Stage Intimidating Demonstration Outside Massachusetts Governor’s Home

The demonstration by dozens of Neo-Nazis outside the home of Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has sparked widespread condemnation and concern. The group, identified as Nsc-131, advocates for a white-only ethnostate in New England and conducted a march through the Boston suburb of Arlington, clad in khakis, black jackets, face masks, and baseball caps. Their intimidating presence, coupled with the appropriation of progressive activist chants, reflects a disturbing trend of hate-fueled actions and underscores the need for continued vigilance against extremist ideologies. Governor Healey’s home was protected by state troopers during the demonstration, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the importance of safeguarding against such displays of intolerance and bigotry.

Neighbors Allege Intimidation by Lakewood Church Shooter Before Attack

Neighbors of Genesse Moreno, the woman who opened fire inside Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston, revealed chilling details about her behavior prior to the shooting. For years, residents in the Conroe suburb of north Houston claim Moreno intimidated them with guns, Nazi salutes, and threats. They describe her routine of brandishing multiple firearms, displaying swastikas, and engaging in aggressive behavior, such as attempting to run over neighbors and taunting them with offensive language. Despite numerous police reports and complaints to authorities, residents felt ignored and helpless, with one neighbor expressing frustration at the lack of action until a tragic incident occurred.

The shooting at Lakewood Church occurred during a Spanish-language service, where Moreno entered armed with an AR-15 rifle adorned with a sticker reading “Palestine.” Two off-duty officers confronted her, leading to an exchange of gunfire that resulted in Moreno’s death and critical injuries to her seven-year-old son, who was with her during the attack. As investigators seek to understand the motive behind the shooting, the community grapples with the aftermath, lamenting that the situation should have been addressed earlier to prevent such a tragic outcome.

Man Arrested for Allegedly Vandalizing Synagogue with Antisemitic Graffiti

Adam Edward Braun, 34, was arrested in Eugene for allegedly vandalizing Temple Beth Israel with antisemitic graffiti. He is accused of vandalizing the synagogue four times since August, including writing “white power” on the building in January. Police identified Braun from security footage and found Nazi and Ku Klux Klan memorabilia at his home. Eugene Police Chief Chris Skinner emphasized the seriousness of the incident, stating that Braun may have been radicalized by books and podcasts, but so far, it appears he acted alone.

Rabbi Ruhi Sophia Rubenstein of Temple Beth Israel acknowledged a rise in antisemitism in Lane County but also highlighted widespread community support. She mentioned a member of the synagogue covering up the graffiti with a positive message after the incident last month. Braun faces four counts of misdemeanor bias crimes and is in Lane County jail. Skinner assured the community that the police take such incidents seriously and will strive to ensure safety in places of worship. Temple Beth Israel remains open to all faiths and non-religious individuals.

Federal Death Penalty Trial Delayed for White Supremacist in Buffalo Supermarket Attack

The federal death penalty trial for Payton Gendron, a white supremacist convicted of killing 10 black people at a Buffalo supermarket, is expected to commence on September 8, 2025. The judge cited the need for time to address various legal and logistical issues, pushing back the trial by at least 18 months from the original request by prosecutors for an April 2025 start. Gendron, who is already serving a life sentence without parole after pleading guilty to state charges related to the attack, now faces federal charges of hate crimes and weapons offenses. The decision to seek the death penalty in the federal case follows New York’s lack of capital punishment, with the Justice Department opting to pursue this course of action in January.

During the hearing, Zeneta Everhart, whose son survived the attack, expressed frustration over the extended timeline, questioning the necessity for the delay and urging the legal proceedings to move forward swiftly. Gendron, now 20 years old, will undergo preliminary legal challenges leading up to the trial, including potential defense challenges to the constitutionality of the death penalty. Prosecutors anticipate a lengthy process for jury selection, estimating three to four months, with the trial itself expected to span five to six weeks.

White Supremacist March in Downtown Paducah Sparks Community Concern

A group of around 20 individuals, suspected to have ties to a white supremacist organization, marched in Paducah. They were spotted near the courthouse after Sunday service, wearing white face coverings and waving flags with symbols associated with the Patriot Front, a known white supremacist group recognized for organizing flash demonstrations across the nation. The group, dressed uniformly in khakis and dark blue shirts, marched in single file, some carrying Confederate or white supremacy-related symbols.

Raynarldo Henderson, who witnessed the march, expressed dismay, particularly as it occurred on the last Sunday of Black History Month, stating that such actions were disappointing and reminiscent of past eras. Despite Mayor George Bray acknowledging the group’s First Amendment rights, he found their promotion of white supremacy in Paducah disheartening. Law enforcement reported no disturbances or vandalism related to the march. J.W. Cleary of the Paducah-McCracken County NAACP condemned the group’s ideologies and called for unity against racism, emphasizing the need to combat discrimination. Additionally, a video on social media documented the group broadcasting anti-trans rhetoric outside Paducah City Hall.

Antisemitic Flyers Spread Fear in Chicago’s Bucktown Neighborhood

Dozens of antisemitic flyers were discovered on car windshields in Bucktown this week, causing alarm in the local community. Lloyd Schoen, 63, stumbled upon cardboard signs bearing antisemitic messages while walking his dogs on Monday morning and promptly removed three of them. The signs directed recipients to GoyimTV, a channel operated by the Goyim Defense League known for promoting antisemitism and white supremacist ideologies online, as per the Anti-Defamation League.

The flyers were found on vehicles in the 1600 block of North Honore Street, and additional incidents were reported on Wolcott Avenue and Winchester Avenue, prompting concern among residents and local officials. Ald. Scott Waguespack emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards hate incidents and crimes, pledging to work closely with law enforcement and the Chicago Commission on Human Relations to investigate the matter. While no arrests have been made, efforts are underway to support affected residents and address the spread of hateful propaganda.

Canada

London Judge Finds Nathaniel Veltman’s Crimes to Be Terrorism

In a groundbreaking ruling, London judge Renee Pomerance has declared Nathaniel Veltman’s murderous actions as terrorism. Veltman, convicted for the killing of four members of a Muslim family and the attempted murder of a child, received a life sentence without the possibility of parole for 25 years. Judge Pomerance emphasized the deliberate nature of Veltman’s attack, driven by a white supremacist ideology, and highlighted its devastating impact on the victims’ families and the broader community.

The ruling marks the first instance in Canadian legal history where a jury considered terrorist activity in a murder case. By refraining from mentioning Veltman’s name during sentencing, Judge Pomerance aimed to deny him the notoriety he sought. Instead, she emphasized the collective societal harm caused by hate-filled violence, condemning terrorism as an affront to Canada’s values of equality, tolerance, and multiculturalism. The decision sends a powerful message that terrorist acts will be met with severe consequences, underscoring Canada’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting its citizens from extremist violence.

Sketch of Nathaniel Veltman’s trial.Source: The Canadian Press/Alexandra Newbould

France

Attacks on French Mayors Reflect Growing Anti-Immigrant Sentiment

The mayor of a small resort town on the Atlantic coast of France resigned, closed his medical practice and moved away after his house and two cars were set on fire. The arson followed months of death threats over plans to relocate a refugee center near a school. This is not an isolated event.

Mayors across France are facing unprecedented levels of hostility and violence, largely driven by opposition to immigration. Extreme-right groups, supported by national politicians, are leading the charge against local officials who support refugee relocation initiatives. This backlash, marked by death threats, arson, and disinformation campaigns, represents a departure from France’s traditional reverence for state institutions. The rise of far-right political movements in France, fueled by concerns over national identity and immigration, has alarmed security agencies.

Beyond street protests, these groups are pushing an agenda that challenges core values of French society, including secularism and equality. Their tactics, including promoting conspiracy theories like the “great replacement,” pose a significant threat to democracy and social cohesion in France. As the country grapples with these challenges, the role of mayors as symbols of local democracy is under siege like never before.

United Kingdom

Three Men Charged in UK Over Alleged Terror Plot Targeting Islamic Center

Three men appeared in a UK court on Tuesday facing charges related to an alleged terrorist plot targeting an Islamic education center. Brogan Stewart, Marco Pitzettu, and Christopher Ringrose, hailing from different regions in England, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London. They were remanded in custody until their next appearance at the Old Bailey on March 15, accused of discussing plans to attack an Islamic center in Leeds and using a 3D printer to manufacture a semi-automatic firearm.

According to prosecutor Mark Luckett, the defendants were active on extreme right-wing chat forums and exchanged information on firearms. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the proliferation of extremist ideologies and the potential use of technology to facilitate terrorist activities.

Graphical Analysis of Far-Right Terrorism in February 2024

In February 2024, the global far-right terrorism landscape saw a significant concentration of events in the United States, with 10 out of 13 documented incidents occurring within its borders. This concentration underscores the ongoing challenge posed by right-wing extremism within American society. While the remaining events were isolated occurrences in Europe and Canada, the prevalence of incidents in the US highlights the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to address extremist ideologies and prevent acts of violence.

Moreover, the rise of anti-immigrant sentiment in Europe adds another layer of concern to the far-right extremism landscape. As seen in recent events, such sentiments can fuel radicalization and contribute to the spread of xenophobic ideologies. The increased focus on immigration issues in European discourse underscores the importance of addressing underlying social and political tensions to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable populations by extremist groups. Efforts to promote inclusivity, diversity, and social cohesion are crucial in combating the rise of far-right ideologies and fostering a more tolerant and peaceful society.

In February 2024, there was a noticeable uptick in the incitement of violence linked to extreme right-wing ideologies, particularly through forms of propaganda, smaller-scale events such as vandalizations of places, and organized marches. While there was only 2 reported violent acts directly related to extreme right ideology during this period, the increase in rhetoric advocating for violence and the proliferation of hate speech underscores the growing threat posed by far-right extremism.

The persistence of these incidents, coupled with the ongoing threat of terrorism related to extreme-right ideologies, highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of radicalization and prevent further escalation of violence. It is essential to recognize the role of online platforms in facilitating the dissemination of extremist propaganda and to implement measures to counter the spread of harmful content while safeguarding principles of free speech and online privacy.

Throughout February 2024, the far-right extremist landscape has seen a significant presence of Neo-Nazi, white supremacy, and antisemitism sentiments. There has been a noticeable diversification of ideologies within the far-right movement compared to January, with racially motivated ideologies alongside extreme right ideologies such as Neo-Nazism gaining prominence.

The intensification of these sentiments highlights the dynamic nature of the far-right landscape, where anti-immigration sentiments, global conflicts, and historical grievances continue to fuel extremist activities. The intertwining of racially motivated ideology with white supremacy sentiments underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive response aimed at countering and preventing such incidents in order to safeguard communities from the impact of extremist violence and hatred.

REFERENCES

– ABC7 Chicago. Cha, P. (2024, March 1). Antisemitic posters linked to white supremacist group, found in Bucktown.

– Barrons: Home. (2017, November 9).

– CBS News. Castaneda, C. (2024, February 21). Neo-Nazi white supremacist delivers antisemitic diatribe at Walnut Creek City Council meeting.

– CBS News. Silverstein, J. (2024, February 21). Neo-Nazi rally in downtown Nashville condemned by state lawmakers.

– Colorado Springs Gazette. Eller, S. (2024, February 24). Convicted Springs man allegedly plans ‘White-only community’ | Crime & Justice.

– El Salto. Corbacho, F. R. (2024, February 16). La Universidad de Extremadura organiza una charla con el franquista Martín Villa.

– GANLEY, E. (2024, February 18). French mayors face violence and intimidation from xenophobic far-right groups. AP News.

– KLCC. Wilk, N., & Bull, B. (2024, February 1). Eugene man arrested over white supremacist graffiti at synagogue.

– London Free Press. Sims, J. (2024, February 22). NATHANIEL VELTMAN: Judge finds mass murderer committed terrorism.

– Operle, D. (2024, February 25). Masked marchers carrying white supremacist symbols in downtown Paducah draw concerns.

– TheGrio. Harriot, M. (2024, February 5). White supremacist who killed 10 Black people in Buffalo supermarket gets 2025 death penalty trial date. Retrieved

– UK News: Home. (2017, November 9).

– USA Today. 3 British men go on trial over alleged terror plot. (2012, October 22).

– WKMS. Operle, D. (2024, February 25). Masked marchers carrying white supremacist symbols in downtown Paducah draw concerns.