Historically Black Church and Civil Rights Group Sue Proud Boys Over BLM Banner Theft and Vandalism

The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law has filed a lawsuit against the Proud Boys, alleging that the far-right group was responsible for the destruction of a Black Lives Matter banner at the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. The lawsuit, filed in D.C. Superior Court, was joined by the church and seeks accountability for the acts of trespass, theft, and property damage that occurred during a pro-Trump rally on December 12. The case calls for a jury trial and aims to secure compensatory and punitive damages for the church.

The defendants include Enrique Tarrio, chairman of the Proud Boys, and Proud Boys International LLC, which has been designated as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. The lawsuit also names several “John Does,” individuals whose identities have not yet been disclosed. The incidents are being investigated by D.C. Police as potential hate crimes, with prosecutors examining whether the attacks were motivated by racial animus.

The Metropolitan AME Church was one of two historically Black churches in the D.C. area where Black Lives Matter banners were reportedly torn down and burned following the rally. Tarrio previously claimed responsibility for burning one of the banners, though he later stated he did not recall the name of the church. The church’s leadership has emphasized the symbolic and spiritual significance of the banners, which represent the ongoing struggle for racial justice and the protection of Black communities.

Rev. William H. Lamar IV, pastor of the Metropolitan AME Church, denounced the attacks as an attempt to intimidate and instill fear in Black communities. He affirmed the church’s commitment to the liberation of humanity from violence, oppression, and exploitation. Lamar urged D.C. residents to display Black Lives Matter signs and flags as a form of solidarity and resistance against such acts of violence.

Kristen Clarke, executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, described the attacks as modern-day cross burnings designed to stoke fear among Black people. She emphasized the need for accountability and called for a federal investigation into the matter. The lawsuit is also intended to deter others from engaging in similar acts of violence during upcoming demonstrations, including those planned for Inauguration Day.

The case underscores the role of historically Black denominations in advocating for racial justice and protecting their communities from acts of violence and discrimination. As the legal proceedings unfold, the church and its allies continue to emphasize the importance of safeguarding sacred spaces and ensuring that the voices of Black Americans are heard and protected.

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