A secretive neo-Nazi conference took place in Vancouver this summer, bringing together prominent white supremacist groups along with martial arts gym owners, coaches, and trainers. Hosted at the Scottish Cultural Centre, the event was organized by a group known as Exiles of the Golden Age, focusing on the establishment of “Männerbunds” described as disciplined groups of men tasked with rebuilding society amidst anticipated turmoil.
Video footage obtained by CBC News’s visual investigations unit, through the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, captured attendees and organizers entering the conference. The gathering featured speakers from white nationalist groups like Wolves of Vinland, emphasizing the concept of an ongoing societal “war” encompassing cultural and physical aspects. Discussions highlighted the formation of ethnically exclusive Männerbund groups.
Individuals with ties to the neo-Nazi movement and members of white supremacist nationalist group Second Sons Canada were identified at the event. These groups, categorized as active clubs, engage in combat training activities in public spaces and private gyms as previously reported by CBC News.
City councillor Rebecca Bligh expressed concern over extremist groups infiltrating Vancouver, emphasizing that any organization promoting violence based on race or ethnicity is unwelcome in the city. The event also showcased presentations from the owner of Imperium Press, a publisher of far-right texts, and discussions touching on “folkish” ideologies blending pagan traditions with white supremacist beliefs.
The conference attendees included gym owners, coaches, and trainers, some of whom serve diverse clienteles, including children. The Exiles event sparked revelations about the involvement of individuals linked to extremist ideologies within the martial arts community. The impact of such alliances and the growing influence of white nationalist movements in Canada were highlighted by experts.
The international connections at the conference were exemplified by speakers like Swedish YouTuber Marcus Follin and American Paul Waggener, who addressed the attendees virtually. Additionally, the presence of individuals associated with white supremacist clothing brands like Vinland Battlewear underscored the global reach of such ideologies.
The Exiles conference shed light on the escalating presence of white nationalism in Canada, with experts pointing to increased support, fundraising capabilities, and recruitment within these movements. The event’s exposure raised concerns about the growing influence of extremist groups in Canadian society, prompting discussions on the need to address and counter such ideologies.