By Riley Blankenship
As Greensboro and the surrounding Triad area anticipates the upcoming midterm elections, many are questioning the state of democracy, feeling it may be at risk with fascism on the rise across the nation due to the Trump administration policies. Last month, I attended my first ever Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) meeting, witnessing first-hand how divided our nation truly is with the far-right extremist group the Proud Boys making a shocking appearance sitting in on our meeting.
The Proud Boys are a far-right extremist group, well known for being a key player in the January 6, 2021, insurrection on the Capitol. Knowing that history, their appearance created a noticeable shift in the atmosphere as the group entered the library. DSA members exchanged nervous glances across the room, while other meeting staff began opening rainbow-colored umbrellas to block the Proud Boys’ view of the meeting.
What was supposed to be a peaceful meeting going over agendas and joining in camaraderie with other members turned into political theater within a matter of minutes. I first felt enraged by seeing them outside our meeting spot, that quickly transitioned to fear and nervousness as soon as they entered the meeting. I had never seen a group like this up close, previously only seeing them from TV or word-of-mouth encounters from others. In the end, no violence occurred – only physical intimidation, the key reason for them being there.
Even though the Proud Boys being at the library was not breaking the law, it still sets a jarring reminder that even in a government-funded public entity, you can still deal with aspects of extremism; this is what erosion of democracy looks like on a local level. With the meeting still continuing despite the unwelcomed visitors, it sets a precedent as it was an act of defiance in the face of fascism. The meeting could have easily been adjourned early as soon as the Proud Boys entered, but with the meeting continuing, it shows what happens when you stand for democracy and fight against being silenced.
We as college students always hear about political extremism but only when it is in a major city like D.C.; however, this serves as a reminder to students that political extremism can occur in your own city.
Triad resident and fellow member of the Triad DSA Chapter, Michael noted she was very surprised to see the library give access to the Proud Boys when they knew the extremist group could have the intention to hurt others.
“I understand that the library is open to everyone but the liberal point to allow everyone access to a space even if they are there to create conflict is insane to me,” she said.
In regard to the DSA meeting continuing and not packing up and leaving after the Proud Boys entered, she thought it was the right move and does not believe any DSA meeting should have to pack up in the face of adversity.
“I would have rather been kicked out than backing down to those fascists,” she said.
While the Proud Boys are just one group of fascists, they represent a much bigger community centered in far-right politics that target underprivileged, angry individuals.
“They are alluring to underprivileged, uneducated individuals that need an outlet to express their anger,” she said.
She advises that the best solution is to educate people on socialism and organize the working class in order to not succumb to hatred.
“It is important to educate these people on the basis of socialism and how they can lift themselves up and get organized rather than letting them succumb to hatred,” she said.
A major takeaway for students: always hold your ground.
“It is important to never cede ground to these people and compromise in the face of adversity.”
