Dr. Randall Blazak
Coalition Against Hate Crimes

"Election Year Threat Matrix: Dynamics of Violent Extremism in Oregon."

The July 13th assassination attempt on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has highlighted the reality of political violence in America. Before that, the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol created a new awareness of the threat of violent extremism. Oregon has a unique history with political extremism that includes the dominance of the Ku Klux Klan in Oregon a hundred years ago and the fact that several of those convicted in the January 6 attack are from the region. This training explores the current threat level with regard to extremist groups in the Pacific Northwest, including militias, white nationalists, anarchists, active clubs, and fighting groups, like the Proud Boys, as well as those who operate as “lone wolves.” The discussion will focus on the ideologies and agendas of extremist groups across the political spectrum, where and how they operate, and how to best interrupt violent and bias motivated activities. Part of this training will highlight flash-points for heightened activism, with close attention played to potential escalation related to the election in November. (1 Credit Hour)