When Hate Backfires: A Lesson in Legal Power Moves
The Proud Boys thought they could intimidate a Black church and get away with it. But instead of cowering in fear, the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. played chess, not checkers. They used the legal system to take ownership of the Proud Boys’ name and merchandise—stripping them of their own brand.
Now, if the Proud Boys want to sell anything under their name, they need permission from the very Black church they tried to destroy. That’s what we call a checkmate.
How It Went Down: The Power of Legal Warfare
Back in 2020, the Proud Boys vandalized the church, tearing down their Black Lives Matter banner and spreading racist hate online. But this wasn’t just about a flag—it was about intimidation, erasure, and disrespect.
Here’s how the church flipped the script:
🔥 Step 1: Immediate Legal Action – The church didn’t just issue a statement—they filed a $3.1 million lawsuit against the Proud Boys.
🔥 Step 2: Court Ruling in Their Favor – The judge ordered the Proud Boys to pay up, but they refused to comply.
🔥 Step 3: Seizing Their Trademark – Since the Proud Boys ignored the ruling, the church legally took ownership of their trademark, including all merchandising rights.
🔥 Step 4: Total Brand Takeover – Now, if the Proud Boys attempt to sell anything under their name, they must go through the church or risk further legal consequences.
This Is Bigger Than a Lawsuit—It’s About Power
This case is more than just legal justice; it’s a power move that dismantles white supremacy using its own systems. Here’s why this is monumental:
🔹 Economic Warfare Works – By taking ownership of their branding, the church hit them where it hurts: their pockets.
🔹 Narrative Control Matters – The Proud Boys lost control over their own name. That’s a level of humiliation they can’t undo.
🔹 Knowing the System is Power – This wasn’t just about fighting back—it was about outsmarting the enemy on their own turf.
Quotes That Hit Different
🔥 “They thought they were the master, but now they have to ask us for permission.”
🔥 “We will not be quiet. We will not sit back. We will continue to fight.” – Pastor William Lamar IV
🔥 “They FAFO. They found out we know how to play their game.”
Actionable Takeaways: What We Can Learn From This
This isn’t just a one-time win. This is a blueprint for how Black communities can take control. Here’s what we can do:
✅ Own Your Brand – Trademark your business, protect your content, and secure your intellectual property.
✅ Use the Legal System Strategically – Learn the rules, use them to your advantage, and fight back legally when necessary.
✅ Hit Them Economically – Economic power is real power. Control the money, control the game.
What’s Next? Join the Movement
This is just the beginning. Black communities need more strategic wins like this to dismantle oppressive systems. If you’re ready to be part of the movement, subscribe to Kin+ for unfiltered, unapologetic conversations on power, culture, and strategy.
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