Video: Ku Klux Klan rally

While counting down the 275 miles on the drive from Atlanta to Nahunta, en route to the Georgia Knight Riders of Ku Klux Klan rally Feb. 20, CL staff photographer Joeff Davis and I had no idea what to expect. It seemed inconceivable that the KKK still exists, operates, and even has supporters. Do they still wear the white robes and pointy hats? Will they burn crosses on the courthouse lawn when they deliver their hate speech? These were all unknown factors that attracted us both as journalists and as curious onlookers. “If things get out of hand and you find yourself in a situation where your getting stomped by a dozen Klan members, is it cool if I take photos?” Joeff asked me in all seriousness.

“Sure,” I said. “If the roles are reversed and you’re getting beaten is it cool if I ask them why?” We both laughed, but there was an air of unease that only increased the closer we got.