Western States Center Releases Resource to Support Local Governments Confronting White Nationalism
As we approach the one year anniversary of the January 6 attack on the United States Capitol, Western States Center today released a slate of recommendations for local government officials confronting the rise of white nationalism, “Strengthening Local Government Against Bigoted and Anti-Democracy Movements: Recommendations for Civic Leaders.”
"We’re living in a profoundly challenging moment for our country and we need officials at every level of government to recognize the urgent threat posed by white nationalism,” said Eric K. Ward, executive director of the Western States Center. “It’s critical that everyone who cares about inclusive democracy understands the intense pressure communities are facing and what we can do about it. As Cynthia Miller-Idriss lays out in her book 'Hate in the Homeland': The New Global Far Right,' white nationalists are using technology to exploit economic and social challenges to build their movement. Her book, along with the recommendations Western States Center is releasing today, are part of a growing set of tools that strengthen local governments to better defend their residents from political violence.”
In the last twelve months, white nationalists and paramilitary groups have repeatedly attacked democratic institutions, increasingly focusing their attention disrupting inclusive democracy at the local level. Recommendations in the toolkit are organized into three prongs: planning and commitment, capacity and action, and vision and power.
“Opponents of inclusive democracy understand that spreading chaos and fear is one of their best tools for promoting their exclusionary vision, but it’s important for local leaders to know they have the power to confront hate and bigotry,” said Ward. “Local governments are on the front lines of political violence prevention and response. These recommendations are designed to help local governments take specific steps to defend against the ongoing attacks on democracy.”
A paperback edition of Miller’s “Hate in the Homeland,” published by Princeton University Press, will be launching January 6.
To arrange an interview with Eric Ward or another member of the Western States Center team, contact press@wscpdx.org.
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