Betsy Riot Explained
The Betsy Riot is a radical left group that describes itself as a "decentralized neo-suffragette, punk-patriot resistance movement."[1] They are pro-gun control. The group began in August 2016, primarily with an anti-gun industry focus,[2] [3] but during the Trump administration the group focused protests on administration policy.[1] The group uses profanity, satire and a radical feminist posture in its messaging, with tactics that include graffiti,[2] [4] theatrical protests,[5] [6] [7] pranks, and coordinated messaging actions, such as mailings, banners,[1] and flyers.[8] The group has also encouraged vandalism to further their agenda.
As part of an ongoing demonstration against gun rights advocates, Betsy Riot purchased johnlott.com (John Lott) and waynelapierre.com (Wayne LaPierre) and runs them as parody sites.
Notes and References
- Web site: Banner in Lincoln part of group's anti-Trump campaign . . February 20, 2017 . Lincoln Journal Star . April 23, 2017.
- Web site: Casey: Roanoke vandalism gets high marks from new anti-gun group . Casey . Dan . August 31, 2016 . The Roanoke Times . April 23, 2017.
- Web site: Vandalism found outside NRA office . Eskow . Kristen . August 2016 . Virginia First . April 23, 2017.
- Web site: 2 Protesters Accused of Vandalizing New Mexico GOP Office . . July 27, 2017 . U.S. News & World Report . July 28, 2017.
- Web site: Protesters show support for abortion rights . . February 11, 2017 . Lincoln Journal Star . April 23, 2017.
- Web site: Betsy Riot, an anonymous, group, waves signs in front of the Nebraska State Capitol at the Women's March Rally on Jan. 21, 2017. Ranard . Alyssa . January 22, 2017 . Daily Nebraskan . April 23, 2017.
- Web site: Protesters shouting 'do your job' and 'meet with us' disrupt Deb Fischer's talk in Lincoln . Hammel . Paul . February 22, 2017 . Omaha World-Herald . April 23, 2017.
- Web site: Education chair draws fire from critics . Lauby . George . February 9, 2017 . North Platte Bulletin . April 23, 2017.
