Researcher Documents Weekend With Proud Boys Chapter

Why it matters locally: The research documented a gathering of the Cape Fear chapter of the Proud Boys, a group with a presence in southeastern North Carolina.

Jen Golbeck, a professor at the University of Maryland, observed a weekend gathering of the Cape Fear chapter of the Proud Boys. Golbeck's academic work includes research on social media and online extremism. She documented her experience in an article for Esquire magazine. Following the publication, Golbeck discussed her account in an interview with Amna Nawaz. The Proud Boys group was established ten years ago. The organization gained public recognition following its involvement in the January 6, 2021, events at the U.S. Capitol.