What to know about the Southern Poverty Law Center

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) is under investigation by the U.S. Justice Department for its past use of paid informants to infiltrate extremist groups. This practice, which the SPLC claims helped prevent violence and was shared with law enforcement, could lead to criminal charges. Founded in 1971 by Morris Dees, the SPLC initially focused on civil rights cases in the South, helping to desegregate public facilities and integrate the Alabama state trooper force. By the 1980s, the SPLC expanded its mission to monitor hate groups, initially targeting the Ku Klux Klan through its “Klanwatch” program, later renamed the “Intelligence Project.” The center has faced backlash, including a 1983 arson attack by KKK members. The SPLC’s use of informants was kept confidential to ensure their safety, according to CEO Bryan Fair. The Justice Department has not commented on the investigation. QUESTION: How might the investigation into the SPLC’s use of informants impact the organization’s future efforts in combating hate groups?