The Proud Boys are an American far-right, neo-fascist militant organization founded in 2016 by Gavin McInnes, a Canadian media personality and far-right commentator. The group describes themselves as "Western chauvinists," promoting traditional masculinity and Western culture, which they see as under siege. Their ideology often includes white nationalist, misogynistic, Islamophobic, transphobic, and anti-immigration elements, and they use rhetoric that obscures these motives. The organization has a history of engaging in political violence, especially against left-wing opponents and antifascists ("antifa"). The Proud Boys originated as a "men's club" advocating against political correctness, and their activities have included street fighting during protests and violent actions, notably playing a major role in the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot. Their founder, McInnes, has distanced himself from the alt-right label but the group is widely seen as part of the far-right extremist network. The organization is decentralized, with regional chapters acting semi-autonomously. Some members have been arrested or charged with crimes related to extremist violence. The group has also been designated a terrorist organization in Canada and is monitored by various anti-extremism groups and law enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad. Members often embrace conspiracy theories and far-right narratives targeting minority groups, LGBTQ+ communities, immigrants, and political opponents. In summary, the Proud Boys are a far-right militant group promoting a version of Western chauvinism, associated with political violence, white nationalist ideals, and extremist views.
