Reports surfaced online this week alleging that a white nationalist group’s protest at a First Nation in British Columbia was actually a false flag operation orchestrated by government agents. These claims, dismissed as “disgusting” and “cowardly” by authorities, suggested various motives such as curbing free speech and influencing the upcoming provincial election. However, evidence, including statements from key members of the organization, points to the demonstration being carried out by white nationalists.
THE ALLEGATION
Over the weekend, a group of masked individuals unveiled a banner from an overpass in Kamloops, B.C., ridiculing reports of unmarked graves at the former residential school site on Tkemlups te Secwepemc First Nation.
As images of the banner circulated online and politicians voiced their opinions, some users on social media platforms raised doubts.
“They are masked because it’s a setup. They are government operatives aiming to create a ‘hate group’ threat in Canada to justify restricting free speech,” one user commented on Sunday, garnering nearly 48,000 views.
Others tied the banner incident to the B.C. election, suggesting it was designed to harm either the provincial Conservatives or the OneBC party.
A CLOSER LOOK
Visual evidence and a video from the protest clearly show several participants wearing attire with Second Sons Canada logos. Described by the Canadian Anti-Hate Network as a far-right, exclusive group for men inspired by militant white nationalist movements globally, Second Sons Canada engages in brief demonstrations and training sessions throughout Canada.
Founded in 2024, the group’s website states its dedication to health, camaraderie, activism, and mutual support for like-minded individuals.
Notably, the same crests and T-shirt designs featuring the Vimy Ridge monument worn by some members during Sunday’s demonstration have been spotted in previous social media posts by Second Sons.
Executive director Evan Balgord emphasized the exclusivity of the group’s merchandise, implying it would be improbable for many individuals to impersonate members.
Additionally, key members of the organization acknowledged the event on their social media platforms, with one livestream recording referencing the banner’s skepticism towards reports of burials at the residential school site.
The Tkemlups te Secwepemc First Nation, upon learning of the group’s presence, declared cooperation with the RCMP and the exploration of heightened security measures.
The RCMP’s response described the banner drop and masks as a deceitful tactic to evade accountability for intimidating and fear-inducing actions and messages.
Expressing disgust, politicians and leaders, including NDP Leader David Eby and Prime Minister Mark Carney, condemned the gathering as cowardly and unacceptable behavior that contradicts the spirit of reconciliation in Canada.
