Neo-Nazis Interrupt McKinley Hill Street Fair Community Outreach
Yesterday members of Tacoma Against Nazis took part in the McKinley Hill Street Fair. The goal in joining this wonderful, family-oriented event was to continue to raise awareness about the House of Pain Tattoo/Tac Town Tattoo and its new location at 82nd and Pacific Avenue. Members also hoped to familiarize people with the symbols commonly used by white supremacists in the region.
As this was TANs second time at the McKinley Hill Street Fair those in the booth wanted to continue the conversation started last year with fair goers about why they love their neighborhood, their school, and Tacoma in general. The pictures below include poster boards decorated with responses mostly from kids about inclusion, peace, strength in diversity, and pride in our hometown.
The experience yesterday began very positively, much like the year before. Around 300 or so people were reached with positive feedback; many were thankful for TAN speaking out about the tattoo shop and expressed that they felt better equipped to recognize the signs and symbols used by hate groups.
Late in the day, a group of the very white supremacists TAN has been working against (Gravy and Ryan Desimas, Brady, Kenrick Baughman, and Gravy’s girlfriend Genevieve) approached our table. They yelled, postured, threatened TAN volunteers and damaged, defaced and removed our materials.
TAN volunteers responded calmly and non-violently. We stood our ground and a group of allies from the Puget Sound John Brown Gun Club responded immediately to ensure our safety and accompany TAN members to their vehicles when the fair ended.
This circumstance underscores and reaffirms TAN’s commitment to this work.
Thank you to the Puget Sound John Brown Gun Club, McKinley Hill Street Fair, and TAN members who responded immediately. Vendors from the surrounding booths also provided much needed support and encouragement.
Ryan Desimas wears an “Anti-Antifa” shirt with the number 88, a commonly used number among neo-Nazis and other white supremacists, while brother Jason “Gravy” Desimas looks on.
Gravy’s signature defames a poster intended to educate community members of common neo-Nazi imagery/sigils.
Positive messages from the community at the McKinley Street Fair about local schools and neighborhoods.
Positive messages from the community at the McKinley Street Fair about local schools and neighborhoods.