Organizers of Athens PrideFest are condemning a group that displayed Nazi symbols and shouted hate speech during Saturday’s Pride parade in downtown Athens. According to Elliot Williamson, executive director of Athens Pride and Queer Collective, seven or eight men dressed in red and black carried a swastika flag and yelled antisemitic, racist, and anti-LGBTQ slurs as thousands attended the event. Organizers responded by using a “hater blocker” banner to shield parade participants and attendees from the group.
Williamson said the men later moved away from the main parade route. The statement issued by Athens Pride and Queer Collective said, “Their appearance was intended to intimidate, divide, and spread fear, but it failed to overshadow the overwhelming spirit of joy, solidarity, and love.” Police monitored the event throughout the day. No significant injuries were reported.
