FBI Labels Anti-Fascists and Anti-Racists as Violent Extremists - UNICORN RIOT
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A recently released document from the FBI indicates anti-fascists are as violent as those who would overthrow the U.S. government

A recently released Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) document titled “Domestic Terrorism Symbols Guide”* links common protest symbols to “terrorism” — another marker in a common theme of conflating militant protest for social justice with deadly terrorist violence within the United States. Groups like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Brennan Center have raised warnings about such documents, citing inadequate protections for people’s constitutional rights.

  • FireTower@lemmy.world
    28·
    1 year ago

    Direct link to the document in question:

    https://unicornriot.ninja/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/DomesticTerrorismSymbolsGuidePart01-ocr.pdf

    Included is information on “Animal Rights Violent Extremists”, “Anarchist Violent Extremists”, & “Militia Violent Extremists”. Each starts like this:

    (U) SUMMARY: The following symbols and phrases are sometimes used by anti-government or anti-authority violent extremists, specifically anarchist violent extremists (AVEs). AVE symbols are often found on online platforms, in propaganda, and as graffiti. Some common themes for AVE symbols include images and stylized rhetoric conveying anti-capitalist, anti-fascist, or anti-government or anti-law enforcement sentiment.

    Although the majority of criminal activity by AVEs violates state or local laws, some crimes may be investigated and prosecuted at the federal level.

    The use or sharing of these symbols or phrases alone should not independently be considered evidence of AVE presence or affiliation or serve as an indicator of illegal activity. Additionally, some individuals use such references for their original, historic meaning, or other non-violent purposes.

    The FBI does not investigate, co!lect, or maintain information solely for the purposes of monitoring activities protected by the First Amendment.