08 Aug 2018 | 07:45 AM UTC
US: Far-right rallies in Washington, DC August 11-12 /update 1
Far-right groups to hold rallies in Washington, DC on August 11-12; avoid all protests
Event
Far-right groups have called for a "white civil rights rally" to take place in Washington, DC, on Saturday, August 11, and Sunday, August 12, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville (Virginia). The main demonstration is programmed to start at 17:30 (local time) in Lafayette Square on August 12; the event is likely to draw at least 400 participants. Furthermore, 32 civic groups - such as Black Lives Matter, Maryland Antifa, and Frederick Socialists - will be holding a series of counter-protest events August 10-12. A "rally against hate" will be held from 12:00 to 15:00 on August 12 at Freedom Plaza and is expected to draw at least 1000 participants. Clashes between demonstrators and security personnel or counterprotesters cannot be ruled out.
Context
Violence broke out at a Unite the Right rally organized by white supremacist groups in Charlottesville (Virginia) on August 12, 2017. One person was killed and at least another 19 injured when an assailant identified as a white supremacist intentionally drove a car into a group of counterprotesters.
Advice
Individuals in Washington, DC, are advised to avoid demonstrations as a precaution, monitor local news for up-to-date information regarding the location of demonstrations, and anticipate traffic disruptions in the vicinity of any such gatherings.
