Was Fred Trump Really An Active Member of the KKK?

Richard Trumka’s phrase, 'rich white color crimes,' aptly describes the complex and often hidden ways in which racism and prejudice manifest within affluent, predominantly white communities. While many conspiracy theories tend to obscure rather than clarify, we'll take a closer look at the lesser-known but equally damning associations of Donald Trump's father, Fred Trump, with the Klu Klux Klan (KKK).

Secrets of the KKK

The KKK has long been associated with vigilante activities, hate crimes, and the silencing of marginalized voices. Membership in this organization was often a closely guarded secret. Unless a member was exposed or admitted to their participation, it is challenging to definitively prove or disprove membership.

Indirect Evidence of Fred Trump’s Associations

One of the few pieces of concrete evidence linking Fred Trump to the KKK is his presence at a Klan memorial parade in Queens, New York, in 1927. The parade devolved into street violence, and several KKK members, including Fred, were arrested. However, this does not necessarily confirm his status as an active or contributing member of the KKK. Other indirect evidence includes his practice of screening out potential Black residents when he got into real estate, marking their applications with a big 'C' for 'colored.' While these actions are indicative of a prejudiced mindset, they do not conclusively demonstrate KKK membership.

Historical Context

The KKK flourished during the early 20th century, particularly during the 1920s. At the time, Queens was a predominantly white neighborhood, and Fred Trump's connections to the KKK can be viewed through the lens of his efforts to maintain an exclusively white residential environment. This practice was common among many in the area, suggesting that his actions were not unique. However, his arrest at a KKK rally provides the next best evidence to support the claim that Fred Trump had some level of involvement with the organization.

The Trump Family Legacy of Prejudice

While the KKK is an extreme organization, the roots of systemic racism and prejudice extend far beyond its immediate members. The Trump family, particularly Fred, displayed a pronounced aversion to people of different races, especially those of African descent. This aversion was not confined to KKK memberships; it permeated their interactions and actions in real estate and everyday life.

Impact on Future Generations

The way in which Fred Trump ran his real estate empire was not just a matter of personal preference but a reflection of his broader cultural and political influences. Notably, his son, Donald Trump, was reportedly influenced by his father's teachings and proclivities. According to some records, Donald used to read and recite pages of Mein Kiemf (possibly a reference to Mein Kampf) to his late wife Ivanna before bed. This illustrates how the seeds of prejudice could be passed down from one generation to the next.

The Bigoted Legacy in Modern Politics

While the KKK is now officially a criminal organization, its impact on the social and political landscape is still felt. Politicians and public figures who share its values can legitimize and perpetuate bigoted ideologies. The article suggests that the Trump family has a long history of prejudice, which may have contributed to Donald Trump's political rise. It also mentions other figures, such as Joe Biden, who have connections to the KKK, providing a broader context for understanding the persistence of racist attitudes.

Whether or not Fred Trump was an active KKK member, his legacy is deeply intertwined with the broader structures of racial prejudice and inequality. As we continue to grapple with these issues, it is crucial to examine the ways in which past actions and ideologies continue to shape the present.

Keywords: Trump family, KKK, racism, Donald Trump, Fred Trump