Pro-Nazi Group Provokes Outrage at American Legion Performance

On November 9, 2024, a group of about 10 demonstrators carrying Nazi flags appeared outside a community theater performance of 'The Diary of Anne Frank' at the American Legion Devereaux Post 141 in Livingston County, Michigan. The demonstrators reportedly chanted offensive slogans, including derogatory remarks about Anne Frank, while present for approximately 30 minutes. Bobby Brite, a past commander of the post, recorded their actions and described them as cowardly and disgusting. The protest occurred while the play, which depicts the experiences of Anne Frank during the Holocaust, was underway. The Livingston County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene and intervened, asking the demonstrators to leave the legion's parking lot. The group then moved across the street to continue their display of Nazi insignia, where a confrontation ensued but no physical altercation took place. The performance was sold out, and theatergoers were made aware of the protesters during intermission. Brite emphasized the tragic history portrayed in the play and stated that the demonstrators came to the wrong place, asserting that such actions were unacceptable. Ultimately, the incident served as a reminder of ongoing anti-Semitism and was met with disapproval and condemnation from several community members present at the performance.