In early February, it became known that Rhode Island Senator Jessica de la Cruz would be hosting a fundraiser at the popular Providence restaurant Ladder 133. This came around the same time the senator made comments disparaging Providence’s communities, stating that Trump should look into deporting many of the people situated there.
On the day of the fundraiser, a planned protest occurred outside of the business. Following this event, a statement was issued by Ladder 133 stating they had suffered harassment, that there was a spread of misinformation, and that they unbiasedly host all groups, no matter their affiliation. In the future, Ladder 133 plans to host more far-right individuals.
It should be unsurprising as to why this occurred. The hosting of these ideologies should warrant protest. Providence is a cultural hub, housing some of the most diverse populations along the East Coast. By inviting far-right groups who oppose the very existence of these communities, you give them a platform and insinuate that they’re welcome in this city. In essence, having your establishment unbiased in its space rentals amplifies what we should all oppose: hate.
Further attempting to cement their innocence, Ladder 133 also makes claims of harassment. According to a video shot by the right-wing senator, as well as people in attendance, no one was harmed, blocked, or berated. Whether threatening calls or emails were made remains unsubstantiated. More importantly, communities of color face real, direct harassment by these groups, and Ladder 133’s portrayal of itself as the victim makes their business appear unempathetic and ignorant.
It should go without saying that as a business, Ladder 133 can do whatever it pleases. Simultaneously, customers and community members can equally decide if they want to protest and not give Ladder 133 their time and money. With that, local communities ultimately decide if a business can stay afloat. At a minimum, the biggest learning that Ladder 133 should take away is that by playing the victim and platforming far-right groups; you open yourself up to rightly deserved criticism and rebuke.