Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 24, 2025 Contact: Victoria Henderson Weber Email: prez@naacpdesmoines.org NAACP Des Moines Condemns Patriot Front March, Calls for Action Against White Supremacy – This past weekend, the people of Des Moines witnessed a masked white supremacist organization, Patriot Front, march through our city, culminating at the steps of the Iowa State Capitol. Their presence was not incidental—it was strategic. This was a recruitment effort, a blatant attempt to grow their ranks by spreading fear and hatred under the false banner of patriotism.
"Make no mistake: Patriot Front does not represent the values of Des Moines, nor do they represent the true meaning of patriotism," said Victoria Henderson Weber, President of the NAACP Des Moines Branch. "Patriotism is not about exclusion or supremacy; it is about building a nation where every person has the opportunity to thrive. It is about defending the freedoms and rights of all, not just a select few."
These individuals wear masks because they know the shame of their ideology. They hide their faces because they walk among us as legislators, officers of the law, executives, faith leaders, neighbors, and “friends”— people entrusted with shaping our laws, enforcing justice, driving economic opportunity, and building the very communities we live in. But their actions reveal their true intentions: to dismantle the very principles of justice, equity, and inclusion that our residents stand for. Eventually, they will learn that their hatred cannot be hidden behind a mask. And as a community, we will not be deceived.
The Des Moines Branch of the NAACP exists to ensure that every Black person and every marginalized community in this city is not just seen but protected and empowered. "We refuse to be intimidated," said Henderson Weber. "Our commitment to justice is unwavering, and we will continue to organize, educate, and advocate against the forces of hate."
We call on our community to reject the lies of white supremacy, to stand firm in solidarity, and to recognize that silence in the face of hate is complicity. We urge our leaders—elected officials, business owners, educators, and faith communities—to speak out against these ideologies and ensure that Des Moines remains a city where all people, regardless of race or background, can live, work, and thrive without fear.
We are watching. We are organizing. And we will not be silent.
About the NAACP Des Moines Branch
The NAACP Des Moines Branch is committed to advancing racial equity, protecting civil rights, and fostering opportunities for Black and marginalized communities in the Des Moines Metro. Through advocacy, community engagement, and policy change, the organization works to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
For more information, please contact Victoria Henderson Weber at prez@naacpdesmoines.org
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