Fighting words

I am so conflicted.

I was at the state Capitol on June 26 when a scheduled rally was canceled after chaos erupted between white power groups and anti-fascists. I arrived after most of the violence was over—but I did see two skinheads get attacked by a throng of anti-fascists.

Is it possible to be uplifted and dismayed at the same time?

Unlike others, however, my problem isn’t with the violence. From the beginning this event seemed more like an old-fashioned “rumble” from the ’50s than a protest rally: The fascists post pics of themselves all dressed up like neo-Nazi LARPers, and then set a date for conflict. Then, Antifa heeds the call and rallies the troops who arrive gussied up in their glorious Occupy Punk Rock regalia, and the two groups go at it like cast members in a dystopian West Side Story.

Yes, 10 people were hurt, but those who willingly showed up to have a brawl in the street knew they were taking their chances.

Still, I am having a problem balancing my desire to accommodate free speech, no matter how detestable, with my desire to eradicate domestic terrorism in the United States.

Let’s be clear. Skinheads, neo-Nazis and groups that share their philosophies are terrorists. Full stop. These radicalized individuals have been responsible for lynchings, murders, bombings and attacks against U.S. citizens for decades. And before you start with the whole “You have to let them speak because of the First Amendment!” stuff, no. I don’t have to let them say a word. The state does. The First Amendment says that the government has to let fascists speak, which is why racist skinheads were granted a permit for a hate rally.

However, “freedom of speech” doesn’t mean “freedom from consequences.” People get fired from jobs for saying stupid, racist things all the time. Don’t forget: The law also declares that some forms of speech can be considered “fighting words.” If you openly and loudly advocate for someone’s destruction and threaten their lives, and the people you threatened show up and kick your ass, that’s on you.

Antifa running neo-Nazis off the block isn’t a violation of First Amendment rights; it’s a group of private citizens standing up for themselves. No one is forcing these hate-filled racists to stand on the steps of the Capitol to advocate oppression and genocide.

But still, it pains me. I am generally down to listen to all forms of ridiculous asshattery. I do believe that people should be allowed to spew whatever poisonous venom is in their hearts, if only so I know who to avoid. However, the nomination of Donald Trump has led me to believe that fascist racists cannot be allowed to think their views are becoming popular or more accepted.