In a troubling incident, a group of masked demonstrators brandishing Nazi flags gathered outside a theater production of The Diary of Anne Frank in Howell, Michigan, on Saturday night, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation. The small group waved swastika-emblazoned flags and held signs with anti-Semitic messages outside the theater as patrons attended the show, which tells the poignant story of a young Jewish girl’s experiences during the Holocaust.
The unsettling demonstration unfolded outside the Community Theatre in Howell, where The Diary of Anne Frank was being staged to commemorate Anne Frank’s legacy and raise awareness about the horrors of the Holocaust. Attendees were met with the disturbing sight of demonstrators in masks and dark clothing, holding symbols that have long been associated with the Nazi regime’s horrific campaign against Jews and other marginalized groups.
Eyewitnesses describe the demonstration as both shocking and heartbreaking, particularly given the nature of the play’s themes of resilience, persecution, and survival. The Diary of Anne Frank, based on Anne Frank’s real-life diary, documents her family’s time hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam before they were discovered and deported to concentration camps, where most of them, including Anne, perished. The production serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of hatred and the resilience of those who suffered during one of history’s darkest periods.
Local community members, activists, and theatergoers voiced strong condemnations of the demonstrators. Attendee Sarah Lewis, a Howell resident, said she was horrified by the sight. “To see people openly displaying Nazi flags outside a play that’s dedicated to remembering the Holocaust—it’s beyond offensive. It’s an attack on everything this story stands for,” she said, adding that the demonstration felt like a “brazen display of hatred.”
The theater has issued a statement condemning the demonstration and reiterating its commitment to telling stories that educate and inspire empathy. “Our production of The Diary of Anne Frank aims to educate audiences about the devastating effects of hate and the importance of tolerance and understanding,” the statement reads. “We stand firmly against any attempts to intimidate or spread hate in our community.”
Local officials and civil rights organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), have expressed outrage over the incident. ADL Michigan’s Regional Director, Carolyn Normandin, called the demonstration “appalling and deeply offensive.” In a public statement, Normandin condemned the event as a reminder that anti-Semitic ideology remains a dangerous force in American society. “This display of hate is a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by anti-Semitic and extremist groups. We must remain vigilant and committed to educating future generations about the dangers of intolerance,” she said.
The incident has also prompted a response from state and local leaders. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned the demonstration, saying that hate has no place in Michigan. “We must stand united against any expressions of anti-Semitism, bigotry, and hate,” Whitmer said in a statement. “The story of Anne Frank is one that teaches us about the importance of love, resilience, and tolerance. We will not let hate overshadow that message.”
In response to the disturbing protest, the theater has decided to increase security measures for the remaining performances of The Diary of Anne Frank and is working with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of its patrons. Howell Police Chief Scott Collins stated that while the demonstrators did not engage in physical violence, the police are closely monitoring the situation and working to prevent any escalation.
The demonstration has sparked a larger discussion within the Howell community about combating rising anti-Semitism and intolerance. Community organizations and local schools are exploring additional educational initiatives to promote tolerance and educate students about the Holocaust and other genocides. Many locals are calling for a renewed focus on teaching history to prevent such displays of hatred in the future.
The community is also rallying in support of the theater and its mission. A group of residents has planned a gathering outside the theater for the play’s final performance, intending to create a “wall of support” to counter any further demonstrations by hate groups. “We want to show that love and understanding are stronger than hate,” says organizer Emily Sandoval. “This is about honoring Anne Frank’s legacy and ensuring that hate does not have the last word.”
As the play continues its run, both the theater and the Howell community are standing firm in their commitment to honor Anne Frank’s story and educate others about the importance of tolerance. The disturbing protest serves as a reminder of the urgent need for vigilance against hatred and the vital role that education plays in fostering a more inclusive society.
