It was a threat.

The Klan’s power depended on the assumption that the target would understand the symbol and become afraid.

That assumption had worked in many places because Klan violence had a long history behind it.

But Robeson County responded differently.

The cross burnings did not isolate the targeted families.

They angered the wider Lumbee community.

Then Cole announced the rally.

The Threat Becomes Public

The January 18 rally was not secret.

It was advertised.