Neo-Nazi groups donned red and black outfits, concealing their identities, and converged on Walt Disney World in a bizarre display that resembled cosplay more than a political rally. The march, marred by hate-filled rhetoric, included white supremacist, antisemitic, and anti-LGBTQ+ messages, accompanied by Nazi salutes. This unsettling demonstration extended to the Disney Springs shopping center at the resort and a separate rally in Altamonte Springs, near Orlando.
Despite the disturbing displays of hate, neither incident resulted in violence or arrests during the few hours they persisted. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reported that approximately 15 members from various neo-Nazi groups demonstrated outside Disney Springs. Orange County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the scene to maintain order.
In a separate incident, over 50 members of neo-Nazi groups, including the Goyim Defense League and Blood Tribe, marched in Altamonte Springs, where they raised swastika flags, saluted Hitler, and chanted “White power” and “Jews will not replace us.” Despite the unsettling messages, no arrests were made.
These incidents come just a week after a white gunman with neo-Nazi ties tragically killed three black patrons at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida. The ADL has noted that Blood Tribe was previously responsible for projecting hate messages in Jacksonville. In a video posted by Florida Democratic state Rep. Anna Eskamani, members of the Goyim Defense League and Blood Tribe can be heard chanting, “We are everywhere!” during their march through Altamonte Springs, highlighting the concerning rise of far-right extremism in Florida.
While these hate-filled displays may be protected by the First Amendment, they continue to be met with condemnation from leaders and residents alike. Altamonte Springs Mayor Pat Bates stated, “Altamonte Springs is strong, vibrant, and diverse, and hate-filled language won’t change that. Their hate speech may be protected, but it is absolutely revolting.”