Defining a Redneck

   In today's society many people often associate nicknames to groups of people based off of social and economic class, and even their family history. Throughout the United States there is one "nickname" or stereotype that derives the same connotation almost everywhere.
  The term Redneck as defined by by dictionary.com is as follows:

    noun

     1. an uneducated white farm laborer, especially from the South.

     2. a bigot or reactionary, especially from the rural working class.

 

   Even on holidays such as Halloween and other costume-like events, people will depict this nickname and group of people in society. They often choose to wear outfits that depict a farmer or a person of a Hillbilly-like nature, often being able to find a confederate flag located somewhere on their outfit as well. This association between rednecks and people of the south has only been reinforced by members of white supremacist groups such as the KKK.

   When looking into the topic of current issues on the stormfront website, the topic of "defining a redneck" was one of the first hits to pop up. After reading through the conversation it was interesting to note that most of the contributors to the conversation were mostly people from the South and often mentioned the reble flag in their post. This sparked my attention mainly because growing up I always associated "Rednecks" with southern, uneducated, lower class white people.

  Later, the conversation turns to discuss how this group of people feels about being called a "Redneck", and about the baggage that comes with this label. For instance, one contributor stated that the term was derrived from the Jewish media aiming to create racism against whites. The idea that the Jewish community has long been attcking the white community is not a new idea, in fact, the white supremacist organizations stand by this belief, often basing their entire argument against that "race".

  In mainstream entertainment, some actors have actually made their success through the idea of defining a "Redneck". For instance, comedian Jeff Foxworthy is most known for his "You might be a Redneck if..." Skits, much like the one below.

 

  These skits are what often shapes the image of a Redneck to younger members in society, and I will be the first to admit that my perception of white, lower class, people of the south was highly influenced by skits like these. However the unnerving connection between Foxworthy's portrayl of a redneck and a member of a white supremacist organization such as the KKK, is one that many are scared yet often curious of.

  My question is, if you were raised in a typical Southern "Redneck" family, would it be natural for you to join an organization such as the KKK? Why is it that, this social class of people are often the main ones who are associated with that hate orgainzation?

Shedding light on the KKK

   It is one of the most recognizable acronyms in the english language, and also one of the most feared groups throughout American history. The Ku Klux Klan, also commonly referred to as the KKK, was founded in the small southern town of Pulaski, Tennessee. Immediately following the Civil War, several Confederate Civil War soldiers gathered to create a secret fraternal, one that would promote the ideals and beliefs about the superior white race. The group also shared common fears regarding newly emancipated citizens of the south, worried that they would be granted the full rights of white citizens.

   Throughout its history the Klan has been composed of many powerful members including past presidents and congressmen. Despite what many might think the clan also allowed women into this secret fraternal order, something that most "secret societies" did not dare do. According to author Abby L. Ferber, in 1915 there were an estimated five hundred thousand women who belonged to the Klan.
     When it comes to defining what drives the members of these societies, people always assume hatred for blacks. Surprisingly, many groups have other factors that determine their belief system. For instance, the long list of "common enemies" is what tied the members together, a list that consisted of hatred against blacks, jews, catholics, and all foreigners. Terrorist actions have been made by the clan towards these groups including their symbolic ritual of placing a burning cross in the front yard of their "enemies." 

   Today white supremacist hate crimes are not as obvious or tolerated as they once were. There are many other white supremacist organizations besides the KKK, however this historic and often feared group is still in action within our current society. However, determining what group did the crime is often difficult, especially seeing as these groups choose to fly under the radar when it comes to daily life. 

   To some Americans these groups may seem a bit "off-their-rocker" but to the members within these societies and "fraternal orders", their beliefs are the only way of life. For instance, look at the example of the video below. This group of members in Georgia believes strongly in the white-supremacist values, which only proves that wether it is the 1850s or today, citizens throughout the country believe white is the only way.

   Growing up in Montana, I was personally exposed to acts of hate regarding white supremacy. My father is a college football coach, so as a kid I was constanly exposed to people of other races, especially my dad's black athletes. I would consider this experience as a blessing in disguise because I never realized there were any major differences between me and any other black student at my school. However, after watching these videos and taking this cultural ethnic studies class, I have come to realize that one major determining factor in how people view other races is based solely upon their own personal upbringing. How would you say you were raised?