Najae Jackson, a former co-founder of the Power and Liberation Movement, and Ilya Arbatman, a dedicated local activist, delve into the alarming rise of far-right sheriffs in America. They discuss the tense protests following controversial comments from a Minden sheriff, spotlighting the roots of racial tension in sundown towns. Najae shares her journey facing adversity in a predominantly white community while demanding accountability. The conversation also uncovers disturbing collaborations between local law enforcement and extremist groups, revealing the challenges activists face in their fight for justice.
Far-right sheriffs are mobilizing local support to establish a White Christian republic, exacerbating divisions in their communities.
The collaboration between sheriffs and militias reflects a dangerous trend of law enforcement facilitating hostility against racial justice movements.
Deep dives
Far-Right Sheriffs' Influence
A national network of far-right sheriffs is working to mobilize support for creating a white Christian republic within local communities, particularly through the actions of sheriffs like Dan Coverley in Douglas County, Nevada. His inflammatory statements regarding Black Lives Matter reflect a broader pattern of hostility toward racial justice movements, as he suggested that supporting such movements incited violence. This aligns with a strategy observed among sheriffs who collaborate with local militias, demonstrating how these officials exacerbate divisions and promote fear in their jurisdictions. The presence of these elements has led to an increasingly volatile environment, especially among communities impacted by racial injustice.
Protests and Local Response
The aftermath of George Floyd's murder sparked protests in Minden, Nevada, where local activists, led by Najae Jackson, aimed to confront the sheriff's office over its divisive rhetoric. The protests, however, quickly escalated into a confrontation with hundreds of armed militia members who supported the sheriff, showcasing a stark power imbalance. Activists experienced significant hostility, including racial slurs and physical aggression, as they sought to voice their opposition to the sheriff's comments. This incident highlights the perilous circumstances faced by those advocating for racial justice in predominantly white and conservative areas.
Coordination Between Law Enforcement and Militias
Evidence suggests a coordinated effort between the Douglas County Sheriff's Office and local militia groups, including the three-percenters, who were alerted to prepare for protests against Black Lives Matter. Investigative efforts revealed email communications that indicated these militias were invited to assist the sheriff's department in maintaining order, further blurring the lines between law enforcement responsibilities and militia involvement. This connection reflects a disturbing trend where official law enforcement agencies collaborate with extremist groups to counter social movements. Such actions not only heighten tensions but also reinforce systemic patterns of violence and intimidation against marginalized communities.
Inform Your Resistance is coming to you this week in between regularly scheduled episodes to introduce you to a new podcast series, The Insurgence: Sheriffs. This collaboration betweenPolitical Research Associates and Cuentero Productions uncovers how a national network of far-right sheriffs is mobilizing to create a White Christian republic, one county at a time.
Subscribe today, wherever you get your podcasts to catch the rest of the episodes in the series.
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