In a disturbing incident that unfolded during a pro-LGBTQ+ rights rally in Kentucky, two individuals believed to be associated with the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) reportedly unleashed threats and brandished weapons at a small gathering of activists. Shockingly, despite the gravity of the situation, the police on the scene failed to apprehend the perpetrators, as revealed by a police report obtained by Raw Story.
The incident occurred in Corbin, where a group of approximately seven activists had organized a rally on June 3 to protest proposed anti-trans legislation in the state. While the participants expected some degree of negativity, they certainly didn’t anticipate the terror that would ensue. One of the alleged KKK members, identified as Kenneth Hutton, was previously employed by Corbin’s city government, according to Marlon Sams, the city manager.
As tensions escalated, one of the assailants menacingly pointed a gun at the crowd, while the other spewed slurs and hateful remarks. Trent Osborne, an organizer of the peaceful event, recounted the harrowing encounter, stating that he was threatened with the words, “I oughta burn you and that sign.” The situation quickly escalated when the two individuals approached the activists, their hands surreptitiously clutching concealed firearms.
Video footage of the incident was shared online, capturing the alarming confrontation and shedding light on the distress experienced by the activists. Jonas Ray, another organizer, expressed the profound sadness felt by witnessing both the hostility of the harassers and the vulnerable stories shared by community members. Amidst the aftermath of the incident, the activists are now in the process of establishing a nonprofit organization called Queer Appalachia.
Despite the failure of law enforcement to act promptly during the rally, the activists acknowledged the subsequent support they received after expressing their concerns. Looking ahead, the organizers have planned a human rights march in Corbin on June 24, and local police have recommended requesting police presence to ensure the safety of attendees. With determination, the activists aim to foster a community so inclusive that hate groups like the KKK are unwelcome, emphasizing the importance of combating prejudice and making a stand against hatred.
In the wake of the incident, flyers endorsing the Trinity White Knights of the Klu Klux Klan have appeared in Corbin, urging parents to take action against what they perceive as moral decay within schools. The disturbing content of the flyers includes calls to eliminate gender policies and expel men from women’s facilities. This incident further underscores the need for continued efforts to promote acceptance, diversity, and equality within society, confronting bigotry and striving for an inclusive future.