Short for “antifascist”, Antifa refers to anyone who *actively* opposes fascism through protest, demonstration, and other political/social activity.Antifa is not a gang or organized political entity. There are no leaders, and there is no hierarchy. Those who identify as Antifa often attend rallies held by neo-Nazis, white supremacists, white nationalists, the alt-right, and other hate groups in order to oppose their message of hatred and violence. Antifa also seeks to support immigrants, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, and any victims of hate crimes and oppression. Antifa is only ever as active as the hate groups it opposes.Sometimes Antifa is confused with the concept of “ black bloc ”, a method of direct action that includes vandalism. This is mainly due to the commonly worn black clothing and face masks. Where people engaging in black bloc tactics will hide their identities from the police, Antifa sometimes wear masks to avoid being identified by fascists for fear of being targeted with violence and harassment of themselves and their families at home, at work, etc. as these are common behaviours/tactics of the far right hate movement.Antifa is typically non-violent and will generally only engage in self defence . However, since there is no membership, hierarchy, or rules, some who identify as antifascist may ignore this convention and choose to, for example, punch white nationalist Richard Spencer in the face.