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Note to teachers: For a shorter lesson, stop video at 3:34.
- Richard Spencer is the leader of the so-called “alt-right,” a mix of white nationalism, neo-Nazi beliefs and hard-edged populism.
- Racist groups like Spencer's have been energized by the election of President-elect Donald Trump and want to become a more mainstream part of society.
- Spencer says he is being persecuted because he is white and that multiculturalism and programs like affirmative action target his white identity.
- But Frank Meeink, a former neo-Nazi, says the use of Nazi symbols and arm salutes are meant to scare people who care about humanity.
Class discussion questions
- Essential question: How does a society defeat racism and stand up to racist groups like the so-called "alt-right"?
- Why are people like Richard Spencer and his supporters opposed to a multicultural society where acceptance of all identities exists?
- Why have some white nationalist groups been energized by the election of Donald Trump?
- How should Trump supporters who are concerned and appalled by these groups react?
