KKK Halloween costumes symptom of growing far-right in Atlantic Canada, researcher says
Far-right extremism is on the rise in Atlantic Canada, with recent incidents like individuals wearing Ku Klux Klan Halloween costumes sparking outrage and condemnation. According to David Hofmann, director of criminology at the University of New Brunswick, these actions are part of a larger effort by far-right groups to normalize hateful attitudes.
Hofmann’s research has revealed a concerning trend in the region, with 29 far-right extremist groups identified between 2000 and 2019. Additionally, there were 148 individuals involved in expressing extremist ideologies or related activities. The number of incidents related to far-right extremism has more than doubled between 2000 and 2019, with a total of 75 reported cases in 2018 and 2019 alone.
Nova Scotia has seen the highest rate of incidents, followed by New Brunswick. While most incidents have been non-violent, there is a growing concern that this could change. Hofmann has worked with Public Safety Canada to track incidents that could potentially lead to violence, such as recruitment, rallies, hate speech, and discrimination.
The Ku Klux Klan has a long history in the Maritimes, with a significant presence dating back over a century. Allan Bartley, author of “The Ku Klux Klan in Canada: A Century of Promoting Racism and Hate in the Peaceable Kingdom,” highlights the organization’s attempts to establish chapters in the region, including a failed attempt in Halifax in 1981.
The election of Donald Trump in 2016 has been a contributing factor to the rise of far-right extremism globally, including in Canada. Hofmann notes that some of Trump’s actions and rhetoric have emboldened far-right groups, leading to an increase in protests and demonstrations in Canada.
As extremist ideologies become more prevalent, there is a growing concern that individuals may be inspired to act violently. It is crucial to speak out against such behavior and reject the normalization of hateful attitudes. By standing up against extremism and promoting inclusivity and tolerance, we can work towards a safer and more harmonious society in Atlantic Canada.
