Oct. 8 (UPI) — About 40 to 50 white nationalists, including noted organizer Richard Spencer, gathered in Charlottesville, Va., for a brief rally.
About 40 to 50 people, including Richard Spencer, president of white supremacist think tank National Policy Institute, gathered at Emancipation Park where the statue stands. It was the third rally by those who oppose the city council’s vote to remove the statue.
Police said there were no incidents at the torchlight rally, which was smaller than three previous rallies in the college town. Demonstrators dressed similarly in white shirts and chanted “You will not replace us. You will not erase us.” They were led by Spencer, using a bullhorn.
While some bystanders screamed insults at the demonstrators, police said there was no violence. The rally ended in less than 30 minutes.
A police statement later said in part, “No disorders occurred during this rally. Spencer and his group then left the park, boarded a tour bus at another location and left the City of Charlottesville. Officers with our department then followed the tour bus to ensure that the group was leaving the city.”
Though there was no violence and the rally was smaller than previous demonstrations, Charlottesville Mayor Mike Signer had strong words for the group.
“Another despicable visit by neo-Nazi cowards. You’re not welcome here! Go home! Meantime we’re looking at all our legal options. Stay tuned,” he tweeted.
Charlottesville was the scene of a clash between anti-white supremacy protesters and those who supported keeping the Lee statue. One person protesting against white supremacy in an Aug. 12 rally was struck by a car and killed.
