Tracking Hate in New York: Analyzing SPLC’s 2024 Report on Statewide and Local Extremist Groups

By Chris Tobias

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) tracks hate and antigovernment extremist groups across the United States. According to their 2024 report, New York is home to a total of 59 such groups, comprising 5 statewide organizations and 54 local chapters. These groups span various ideologies, including white nationalism, antisemitism, anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments, and other forms of bigotry. 

Statewide Organizations

The five statewide groups in New York operate without specific city affiliations, indicating a broader reach across the state. These organizations often disseminate their ideologies through online platforms, publications, and coordinated events. Their activities contribute to the spread of extremist beliefs beyond localized areas, affecting communities throughout New York.

Local Chapters

The 54 local hate groups are distributed across various regions in New York, including urban centers like New York City, Buffalo, and Albany, as well as smaller towns and rural areas. These groups often focus on specific communities, targeting racial, religious, or sexual minorities. Their presence in diverse locales underscores the pervasive nature of hate-based ideologies.

Notable Groups and Ideologies

Among the groups identified by the SPLC are:

• Nationalist Social Club-131 (NSC-131): A neo-Nazi organization active in the northeastern United States, including New York. NSC-131 promotes white supremacist ideologies and has been involved in various public demonstrations. 
• Goyim Defense League (GDL): An antisemitic hate group known for spreading conspiracy theories and propaganda targeting Jewish communities. GDL has been active in multiple states, including New York. 
• White Aryan Resistance (WAR): A white supremacist organization that espouses neo-Nazi beliefs and has a history of promoting racist and antisemitic ideologies. 
• Aryan Nations: A white supremacist group advocating for a white-only homeland, with a history of criminal activities and violent rhetoric. 
• Sadistic Souls Motorcycle Club: A white supremacist outlaw motorcycle club affiliated with Aryan Nations, promoting neo-Nazi ideologies. 

These groups utilize various methods to propagate their beliefs, including distributing flyers, organizing rallies, and leveraging social media platforms to recruit and radicalize individuals. 

Implications and Community Response

The presence of these hate groups in New York poses significant challenges to social cohesion and public safety. Their activities can lead to increased tensions, hate crimes, and a general atmosphere of fear among targeted communities. Local governments, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in countering the influence of these groups.

Efforts to combat hate groups include community education programs, support for victims of hate crimes, and initiatives promoting inclusivity and diversity. By fostering open dialogue and understanding, communities can work together to diminish the impact of hate-based ideologies.

For more detailed information on hate groups in New York and nationwide, refer to the SPLC’s Hate Map.