BOSTON (AP) — A few dozen free speech advocates have rallied peacefully on Boston Common but just like last summer’s event, they were outnumbered by counterprotesters.
The “Rally for the Republic” event was held Saturday by conservative groups Resist Marxism and Boston Free Speech despite being denied a permit.
Rally speakers warned that free speech was under threat and accused Antifa and Black Lives Matter groups of being terrorist organizations.
At least 100 counterprotesters showed up to the Common. Boston police say two counterprotesters were arrested.
Resist Marxism has denounced white supremacism repeatedly and publicly. But the August rally came shortly after deadly violence erupted in Charlottesville, Virginia, and it drew thousands who said they feared white nationalists might show up anyway.
Some clashed with police, and more than 30 had been arrested.
Crowds dispersing without major incidents. A handful of arrests. Peace out? #7News pic.twitter.com/sG81GEmlpI
— Dan Hausle (@dhausleon7) November 18, 2017
Free speech rally concludes on the common with a wall of police officers separating counter protestors #7News pic.twitter.com/dcjp6ErOr6
— Steve Cooper (@scooperon7) November 18, 2017
Police are keeping back several thousand counter protestors. #7News pic.twitter.com/ZEwugPG4u0
— Dan Hausle (@dhausleon7) November 18, 2017
About 100 self described free speech activists are speaking (without permit) on Boston Common #7News pic.twitter.com/XtmiEO8ZFM
— Dan Hausle (@dhausleon7) November 18, 2017
Boston police now separating demonstrators on the common #7News pic.twitter.com/WkStRHHQVS
— Steve Cooper (@scooperon7) November 18, 2017
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