NEWS RELEASE
OMAH HISTORY COMMITTEE
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Many people would be surprised to learn that the Klu Klux Klan (KKK) was operating in Canada in the 1920s and 1930s, and then actively returned in the 1970s and 1980s.
The KKK’s goal in Canada was to embolden White supremist Protestantism using coercion, lobbying and, on occasion, violence to promote their cause. Their targets included Catholics, Jews, Blacks, Asians and Indigenous peoples.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) investigated and successfully prosecuted members of the Canadian chapters of the KKK during both of these periods.
Guest contributor OPP Museum Curator Christine Johnstone brings this shocking story about local history to life with her article: A Murder Plot and the Canadian Knights of the Ku Klux Klan.
Click on the link to learn more about the Ku Klux Klan and more specifically what happened in 1982, when the OPP began what appeared to be a relatively straightforward forgery investigation that led them to a murder plot they never would have predicted.
The OPP Museum in Orillia recently celebrated the opening of a refreshed gallery space featuring all new exhibits. One such exhibit is the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) display.
With so many great stories to share with visitors, the exhibit is well worth a visit to OPP General Headquarters where parking and admission are free. Open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed weekends and statutory holidays).
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