28 Mar 2008

Klan's new message of cyber-hate

The Klan, once the most feared racist group in America, still has a small yet active membership throughout the American south and mid-west - estimates put national figures at 6000 to 8000 Klansmen.

Robb credits the internet, as well as the "average American's" concern about illegal immigration, for the sustained interest in the Klan.

"A young father who is worried about the flood of immigrants into the US can go to his computer and find us," Robb says. "We are right there for him - www.kkk.com."

The second time we speak, Robb begins by explaining some common Klan terminology and traditions. "Firstly, it's not called burning the cross, it's called lighting the cross," Robb says.

"And it's not necessarily just a symbol of the Klan - it shows the power of Jesus Christ."

Robb explains that what became widely popularised as a symbol of Klan terror is not restricted to the lawns of the Klan's enemies.

"If you visit a local Methodist church here [in the South], or even a Presbyterian church, you'll see representations of crosses with flames at the base. The firing of the cross is a Christian ideal."

Read more in the NZ Herald