Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance takes action on militia-related crafts at Downtown Farmers Market

CEDAR RAPIDS — The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance has addressed a farmers market vendor who was selling crafts with the logo of an anti-government militia group.

The Economic Alliance, which manages the Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market, said in a Thursday news release that it received complaints from concerned citizens about a July 16 vendor who sold crafts displaying the logo of the Three Percenters, a far-right anti-government militia group. The Economic Alliance did not name the vendor, but noted they were “a popular and longtime” merchant at the market who makes and sells hundreds of different craft products.

“After hearing the complaints, the Economic Alliance talked with the vendor, who has agreed not to display such products at any future markets,” the Economic Alliance said in a statement. “As a result of the information being publicly spread, the Economic Alliance will further clarify its vendor and product policies.”

Members of the Three Percenter groups often signal their affiliation by holding up three fingers in the “OK” sign. Some merchandise contains variations referencing the namesake number, such as “III.”

Members of the Three Percenters have been accused of, arrested or indicted for participating in the U.S. Capitol insurrection last year, the plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2020 and other acts of domestic terrorism, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Both Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell and city manager Jeff Pomeranz issued a statement Tuesday on the matter.

“Hate, and symbols of hate, have no place in Cedar Rapids. The Economic Alliance, which managed the Downtown Farmers’ Market, has assured us this will not happen again,” O’Donnell said.

“The City of Cedar Rapids greatly values diversity, equity and inclusion,” Pomeranz said. “Message of hate are contrary to our city’s vision and values.”

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