The phrase known as the “14 Words” is a slogan that has been widely adopted by white supremacist groups. It states, “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children.” This slogan was coined by David Lane, a member of the US white supremacist terrorist group The Order, and reflects a core belief in white nationalism: the notion that the white race is at risk of extinction and must be preserved.
The “14 Words” encapsulate a worldview that is exclusionary and promotes racial segregation and supremacy. It is often used to rally individuals around the idea of a racially pure nation and has been linked to various acts of violence and terrorism. The number “88” is also associated with this phrase, which is a numerical code for “Heil Hitler,” as ‘H’ is the eighth letter of the alphabet.
Challenging this ideology requires a multifaceted approach. Education is a critical tool in combating the spread of white supremacist beliefs. By raising awareness of the history and implications of such ideologies, individuals can be better equipped to recognize and reject these harmful views. Additionally, promoting diversity and inclusion in communities and institutions can help counteract the divisive nature of white supremacist rhetoric.
It’s also important to support policies and initiatives that address systemic racism and inequality. This can involve advocating for fair housing, employment opportunities, and criminal justice reform. Engaging in dialogues that foster understanding and respect among different racial and ethnic groups is another way to challenge the narrative of white supremacy.
On a personal level, individuals can resist internalized white supremacy by understanding its root causes, recognizing its impact on society, and committing to purposeful action against it. This includes supporting diverse voices and businesses, calling out racist behaviour when witnessed, and actively participating in anti-racist movements.
Below is a selection of a few of the hundreds of memes on online that are pushing the ’14 words’
