Remembering Means Fighting
REMEMBERING MEANS FIGHTING: Anti-Fascists come together in Manchester for commemoration and celebration
ON THE WEEKEND OF THE 8TH FEBRUARY, ACTIVISTS FROM ACROSS EUROPE ONCE AGAIN GATHERED IN MANCHESTER TO SHOW SOLIDARITY WITH MURDERED AND IMPRISONED ANTI FASCISTS AROUND THE WORLD.
This was the third time this weekend set of events had been organised and it showed how strong and vibrant the antifascist movement is in an age of rising nationalism, racism, and yes, fascism, globally.
The Saturday was a series of events including a march, film showings and a dinner. The march in particular was a remembrance and celebration of those who have given so much to oppose fascism globally. It was well attended and well received by the communities it passed through.
On Sunday there was a martial arts tournament featuring Boxing, Muay Thai and MMA. Fighters from several different gyms and communities from around the UK and Europe took part. The atmosphere was extremely warm and loving, and people were glad to have a chance to show their training in a community atmosphere and setting.
ANSWERING QUESTIONS
Why fight?
0161, like most anti fascist organisations, runs lots of different types of events, from music events, to community programs. Boxing gyms have always had a great part in the history of working class antifascist organising. Radical gyms are an important way to be part of working class communities, to promote health, well being, respect, self discipline and community. This culture is being rediscovered and supported by organisations like 0161
Why cover faces?
Anti facists across Europe are always under a real threat of reprisals and attacks from fascists, especially in times like now when the far right are growing, and the internet can be used to find people’s identities and target them. As a movement safety comes first.
Can I support 0161 and anti fascist organisations without getting involved in fighting and having to hide my face?
Absolutely. 0161 is a broad and vibrant organisation with a podcast (0161 NC), music nights, cultural events, fundraisers and more. After the election the organisation has grown more as the (justified) fear of a racist Conservative government has motivated people to get more active. We will be reporting on all the activities of 0161 going forward, including the new events they are going to be putting on
I am not into fighting, should I go to the next one?
As someone who isn’t into fighting either I would still suggest this is a great event for all. The atmosphere is warm, every gender is welcome and represented (and fights btw), and it is a great reminder of the international movement. If nothing else I would highly recommend the 0161 festival generally, and the events around the fight, such as the fight and the dinner
The next Remembering Means Fighting #4 happens on 26th April during the 0161 Festival - follow the festival page for more details - https://www.facebook.com/0161Festival/