This Saturday afternoon, eight Portuguese cities will host demonstrations against racism, xenophobia and fascism, called by a group of 64 groups demanding a more inclusive and intercultural country and world.
According to information available on the website of the Joint Action Group against Racism, the organization is calling “all people who believe in democracy to a major national demonstration in the fight against racism”, which will take place from 15:00 in Braga, Coimbra, Faro. Guimaraes, Lisbon, Portalegre, Porto and Viseu.
“At a time when racism, xenophobia and the far right are on the rise not only in Portugal but throughout Europe and the world, there is an urgent need to take to the streets and demonstrate our strength to demand significant, concrete proposals and actions that are effective in combating the structural and institutional racism evident in Portuguese society,” reads the text available online.
Organizers explain the initiative as a way to show that they are unhappy with the indifference, inertia and disrespect for the achievements of April 25 “of so many people who gave their lives to leave behind the dictatorship sought by the far right.” get well.”
“Freedom and equality are the values that drive us to defend democracy! Institutional silence is complicit. We will neither accompany him nor legitimize him!” they say.
Regarding this silence, they explain that on January 27 they sent an open letter to several public organizations, signed by 8,474 people, in which they asked for a ban on the march of far-right movements against the supposed Islamization of Europe, which took place. February 3rd.
“The letter did not receive a response from any of the recipients, which indicates a complete disregard for the submitted appeal, opening the way for crimes to be committed on the streets of Lisbon, which the whole country witnessed, without the authorities respecting the law,” they criticize.
They therefore argue that it is “urgent” that all democratic political forces publicly make very clear commitments to combat racism, xenophobia and Islamophobia.
Author: Lusa
Source: CM Jornal
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