MADISON, Wis. — Madison police said about 20 people participated in a neo-Nazi march in Madison Saturday. They carried Nazi flags and marched on State Street in the afternoon.

What You Need To Know

  • Madison police said about 20 people participated in a neo-Nazi march in Madison Saturday

  • They carried Nazi flags and marched on State Street in the afternoon

  • The group made stops at the Capitol and James Madison Park

  • The Madison Police Department (MPD) said it does not support “hateful rhetoric” but is obligated to “protect first amendment rights of all”

The group made stops at the Capitol and James Madison Park.

Madison police reported multiple 911 calls about the march.

The Madison Police Department (MPD) said it does not support “hateful rhetoric” but is obligated to “protect first amendment rights of all.”

Gov. Tony Evers released a statement condemning the march.

“To see neo-Nazis marching in our streets and neighborhoods and in the shadow of our State Capitol building spreading their disturbing, hateful messages is truly revolting,” he said.

“Let us be clear: neo-Nazis, antisemitism, and white supremacy have no home in Wisconsin. We will not accept or normalize this rhetoric and hate. It’s repulsive and disgusting, and I join Wisconsinites in condemning and denouncing their presence in our state in the strongest terms possible,” he continued."

Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes Conway released this statement following Saturday's neo-Nazi march:

“Madison does not want or welcome hate groups like the one that invaded our community today. I know how disturbing it was to see Nazi symbols openly displayed on our streets. Please know that the Madison Police Department was closely tracking their activities and was prepared to intervene if needed. This group and others like it are trying to normalize hatred, racism and antisemitism. We must not let them succeed. Hate has no home in Madison, and we must not let it take root here. Together, we can continue to build a strong community with strong democratic institutions that respect First Amendment rights, while embracing and valuing diversity.”

The University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) said all students with “immediate” safety concerns should call 911.

UW-Madison’s chancellor said the march was “utterly repugnant.”

“I am horrified to see these symbols here in Madison. Hatred and antisemitism are completely counter to the university’s values …” Jennifer Mnookin said. “... And the safety and well-being of our community must be our highest priorities.”