Ryan Lo'Ree, was once a right-wing extremist with the Rollingwood Skins, a
Michigan-based offshoot of the largest Nazi movement in the United States.
While in the organization, he moved up the ranks quickly to become Vice
President. In his role, he was responsible for mainstreaming hate groups
on social media. He went through a process of transformation and healing
centered around trauma associated with sexual, physical and mental abuse
he endured from male family members. He now works with
Light Upon Light as
Interventionist and Program specialist, contributing to the organization's
work on combating polarization, structural injustice, racism, hate, and
violent extremism.
"To classify another human being as less than,
is the moment you lose your empathy
and the argument."
We discussed how to bring people out of extremism
with empathy. Empathy does not mean you agree or disagree, or
sympathize with someone. It means listening deeply and
understanding. It means seeing the common humanity of each other,
and that builds connection and healing. The act of empathy is
transformational.
