Unmasking the Far Right

The antivaxx movement may seem a recent response to COVID-19 vaccine and mask mandates and government health orders, but it has roots in – or relationships with – far right, white supremacist, neo-nazi, fascist, authoritarian or conspiracy-theorist leaning organizations and influencers. It is a minority seeking to impose their views on the rest of society. This is why it is so vital that the progressive movements and individuals be clear, deliberate and strong in standing against it.

This far right movement is not a single entity but these groups often act in concert and new recruits may not recognize or understand its true nature. They may start with understandable concerns about the vaccines or public health measures but quickly become fodder for recruitment to the organizersfull complement of conspiracy theories and hate messages. The ego, arrogance, exhibitionism and extreme tribalism that are hallmarks of the leaders are a weakness; yet in spite of this the movement overall remains a serious and growing threat.