They are leaving the hoods and robes behind.

Via WISTV

The Loyal White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan say they will continue to prepare for their rally at the State House despite the removal of the Confederate flag from the capitol’s grounds.

Local leaders say the rally should be peaceful and is intended to send the message of “white pride,” not hate.

“It broke all of our hearts that they made a decision. The government, instead of being for the people and what the people want, they take it upon themselves to make the decision for us,” said KKK Imperial Kommander Amanda Lee.

Lee says that she could support other murders, but does not support the slaughter of nine African Americans in church by accused Dylann Roof.

“If he was to go to the street corner that was selling people crack and drugs, and if he would have done that, truthfully, I wouldn’t have looked at him in shame,” said Lee.

A week before the rally is expected to be held, Columbia’s city council placed a temporary weapons ban around the State House to ensure the public’s safety.

Columbia Police Chief Skip Holbrook says the KKK protest is his “biggest concern” especially since the Sons of Confederate Veterans and a black separatist group will be located at the State House grounds at the same time.

“We have to have cooler heads prevail, but also, I think normal citizens who aren’t involved in these types of organizations have to take a step back and let law enforcement officials handle the situation,” Rep. Rick Quinn said. “Because I’m sure they’re going to be prepared for it.”

Kommander Lee says the Klan will not be wearing robes at the rally, they will have their faces out in the open for the world to see.

The rally is expected to be held Saturday, July 18th at the State House.