Over the Labour Day weekend, people in Niagara witnessed something unusual and troubling. A group of masked men calling themselves the Second Sons marched through Queenston Heights Park, chanting, carrying flags, and stopping in front of a historic monument. Their appearance and message have left many community members worried about the rise of extremist groups in Canada.
The Second Sons describe themselves as a "Canadian men’s nationalist club," formed in 2024. On their website, they say they are defending a way of life that they believe is under threat. They claim that Canadians are being replaced by immigrants in society, education, and jobs.
Experts who study extremism compare the group to white supremacist and neo-Nazi “active clubs.” These types of groups often bring members together for workouts, martial arts, and training, which some see as preparation for violence.
The group’s leader, Jeremy MacKenzie, has also been linked to another extremist network called Diagolon, described as a militia-style organization.
On August 31, about 50 members of the group gathered at Queenston Heights Park in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Wearing white masks and black T-shirts, they marched together before stopping at the tall monument of Major-General Sir Isaac Brock, a hero of the War of 1812.
Videos from the day show families and visitors at the park watching the group from a distance. The group did not have a permit from Niagara Parks, which confirmed that no permission was given for the event.
Although the rally ended peacefully, many residents and community leaders said the sight was intimidating.
Members of the Niagara Region Anti-Racism Association said the rally was an attempt to scare and recruit. One member explained that the group’s ideology suggests immigrants and people of color are not part of the Canadian family.
Local leaders also expressed concern. The town of Niagara-on-the-Lake released a statement saying it does not tolerate racism or hate of any kind. Niagara Parks, which oversees the monument, said it does not condone the group’s beliefs.
The Second Sons used the historic setting to push their message. During speeches, members praised past Canadian battles and claimed today’s politicians are betraying the country. Some members even used symbols linked to white supremacy, such as the Red Ensign flag.
Shortly after the rally, MacKenzie posted videos online, including one where he performed a Nazi salute while playing music in his car. These images caused alarm among experts and residents alike.
The day after the rally, the group boasted online that they had received a flood of new membership applications. Experts warn that by appealing to patriotism and using public displays, extremist groups are trying to attract more followers, especially young men.
Community leaders worry this strategy could normalize hate and spread anti-immigrant views. They also note that extremist ideas are sometimes echoed in everyday conversations or even in political debates, which can make them seem more acceptable.
Researchers say the group is modeling itself after similar American extremist organizations. Their matching masks and military-style marches are designed to show strength and unity.
Experts warn that ignoring such groups allows them to grow. While the rally did not lead to violence, it still spread harmful messages and created fear.
One professor pointed out that anti-immigrant ideas are becoming more common in public discussions, which makes extremist movements harder to challenge. He emphasized that community groups and governments need to take action to push back.
The rally highlights a troubling trend: extremist groups are becoming more visible and bold. By using patriotic symbols and public spaces, they try to make their ideas look normal. But their message — blaming immigrants and minorities for Canada’s problems — can divide communities and put people at risk.
The Niagara rally may not have ended in violence, but it was not harmless. It was a clear attempt to spread extremist beliefs and gain new members. Local leaders and experts agree that such groups must be watched carefully and their messages challenged.
For communities, the rally was a reminder that hate can grow when left unchecked, and that unity, awareness, and action are needed to keep it from spreading further.
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