The content of the video was disturbing, disgusting and racist and we thank local law enforcement for looking into the matter. Our National Center on Extremism is also looking into the video.

We do not believe that it is a real Klan rally, but we are troubled by what it represents which is the acceptance of hateful behavior by those who stood by and watched. We know that this behavior does not represent the vast majority of people in that community or Connecticut. The Klan has a very small presence in the Northeastern part of the country, and no discernible presence in Connecticut.

The sheer number of people present is an indicator that it is not a Klan rally. Also, Klan rallies are more ceremonial, somber...for them a religious gathering. During actually Klan rallies everyone would be wearing a robe, and they would burn a cross or swastika- not riding a motorcycle around a bonfire. This is not to excuse the actions in the video, but to put them in context and respond appropriately.