Unite the Right 2: The Failure and Its Implications

Introduction

The second Unite the Right rally, held in 2019, was a significant event that brought together right-wing activists and counter protesters in a clash of ideologies. While the first Unite the Right rally in 2017 was marked by the presence of armed protesters, the second rally in Washington D.C., known as DC Unite the Right 2, failed due to the lack of weapons and the numerous challenges it faced. This article explores the reasons behind the failure of the second rally, the implications of this event, and the broader context of the alt-right movement.

Failure of the DC Unite the Right 2 Rally

Several reasons contributed to the failure of the DC Unite the Right 2 rally. Jason Kessler, the organizer, played a significant role in the lack of success, as did the low attendance of Nazi sympathizers. The rally was marred by the presence of only a few dozen Nazis, outnumbered by thousands of protesters. Many participants did not show their faces due to backlash from the previous rally in Charlottesville, 2017, and some even lost their jobs as a result of their affiliations with hate groups. While the lack of weapons by the rally participants might have been a point of praise for some, the physical altercations and inadequate policing were highlighted as the key issues.

The rally also faced significant backlash from groups who were doxed and targeted online, leading to further alienation. The lack of weapons, befitting of a president's "house," was seen as a pragmatic decision aimed at avoiding conflict and staying within the purview of gun control laws. This decision comes despite the strict gun control measures in place in Washington D.C., reinforced by the history of presidential assassinations in the area.

Alt-Right Movement and Ideology

The alt-right movement, characterized by extreme ideologies fueled by ignorance, hatred, and emotional rushes, continues to struggle with its failure to coalesce into a unified front. The movement fails to represent 'the Right' or 'Conservatism,' instead embodying a flash mob of disorganized racists incited by individuals seeking power through hate. Within the ranks of the movement, there are people who are perpetually driven by propaganda and a lack of substance.

Organizers of Unite the Right rallies and the alt-right generally hope to provoke further clashes and media attention, as this fuels their movement. This has become a predictable cycle: counter-protestors are brought in to antagonize, the alt-right frenzy grows, and the media covers the event, often giving the alt-right a perceived platform. This attention, however, does not reflect the true substance or impact of the alt-right's message, but rather the chaos and divisiveness it can create.

Lessons from History

Charlottesville in 2017 remains a critical reminder of the potential for violent conflict when ideologies clash. The car that was driven into a group of counter-protestors, killing one person, highlighted the volatile nature of the alt-right movement. This incident serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need for responsible and constructive dialogue.

Instead of engaging in provocative rallies that only fan the flames of hate, participants and supporters of all ideologies should focus on meaningful and positive activism. Addressing issues such as environmental degradation, social injustice, and economic inequality can bring about genuine change without resorting to divisive rhetoric or violent actions.

Conclusion

The failure of DC Unite the Right 2 rally underscores the inherent problems within the alt-right movement and the broader struggle between hate and unity. It is crucial for society to move beyond the echo chambers of division and embrace constructive dialogue and action. The alt-right movement must either find a new, non-violent way to express its beliefs or risk being marginalized and rendered moot by society's focus on positive and substantive activism.

Keywords

Unite the Right Alt-Right Charlottesville