Patterns Making White Power Groups Angry
White power groups’ anger stems from several patterns, with the overriding factor being fear of cultural erasure. As evidenced in the Patriot Font manifesto, the group emphasizes a return to the traditions and virtues of their forefathers due to the fear of losing their cultural heritage to modern influences (Manifesto para. 8).
These groups are also angry about the perceived loss of power and influence in American society. They believe that their voices are marginalized and that they are being replaced in positions of authority. As mentioned in the manifesto, there is a need for a “hard reset” on the current state of the nation, indicating a desire to regain control over the direction of the country (Manifesto para. 8). Additionally, economic challenges, job losses, and other negative life experiences also fuel anger and frustration.
Reasons Why Average Individuals Join Hate Groups
Individuals tend to gravitate towards hate groups for various reasons. Firstly, these groups allow people to feel a sense of belonging, especially those marginalized in mainstream society. For instance, online platforms like Stormfront “serve as virtual communities where individuals with racist ideologies connect with like-minded people,” fostering a strong sense of belonging (Stormfront 1 and Hern 2). Secondly, some individuals join hate groups as a way to cope with their failures or difficulties. This is manifested through current events such as the resurgence of xenophobia and hate crimes targeted at immigrants and religious minorities.
Surprising Aspects
The one thing that surprised me the most about White Power groups is the fact that most of the members hail from educated, middle-class backgrounds and families. Additionally, these organizations have shifted their focus beyond traditional racist targets, which explains why, in 2022, SPLC documented 1,225 hate and antigovernment extremist groups across (Hate map para. 1). The group now targets white liberals and considers them traitors.
Works Cited
“Hate Map.” Southern Poverty Law Center, 2021. Web.
“Manifesto.” Patriot Front, 2020. Web.
“Stormfront – White Nationalist Community.” 2023. Web.
Hern, Alex. “Stormfront: “Murder Capital of Internet” Pulled Offline after Civil Rights Action.” The Guardian. 2017. Web.
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