04/09/2023
Disgusting displays of intolerance like we have now seen several times in our city, test our tolerance for freedom of expression. That is a precious right that must be continually defended even when neo-Nazis are provoking us. They love the attention and hope for the erosion of our right to freedom of expression.
Release Date: September 3, 2023
On September 2, 2023, a national Neo-Nazi group arrived in Altamonte Springs. It is believed that many of the members traveled from out of state to participate in an event planned for multiple locations across Florida. The group walked from the Seminole County area of Sanlando Park to Cranes Roost Park. Their message of hate and discrimination was disgraceful and does not align with the values and beliefs of our City, nor does it represent the residents of the Altamonte Springs community.
The Altamonte Springs Police Department worked with our law enforcement partners to ensure the safety of our community while this group exercised its First Amendment rights. Our police officers were ready and available to respond appropriately to any potential public safety threat while also being mindful of constitutional freedom of speech. Although the message was disturbing, no actions rose to the level of arrest.
These groups go to high-profile areas to gain media attention, incite people with hate speech, and bait local governments to violate their First Amendment rights.
“Racism and hatred do not belong in any community,” said Altamonte Springs Mayor Pat Bates. “Good people with good hearts don’t have to conceal their identities. 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.”
We thank the community for joining us in condemning the actions of this hate group, and we would like to recognize our officers for their professionalism. These groups seek attention through negative interactions with the community and law enforcement. Although they took every opportunity to incite emotion and engage in confrontation, our community did not submit to these tactics.
