Public forum: The hidden history of anti-fascist activism in Melbourne

Hear about moments of anti-fascist history in Melbourne, and lessons we can bring from those to our anti-fascist work today.

In 2015 when the nationalist, racist group 'Reclaim Australia', which was led by neo-nazis, took to the streets to protest Muslims and other minority groups, anti-fascists were there to call them out for what they were and counter mobilise to shut them down, making it more and more harder for them to mobilise in the future.

As well, in the 90s, anti-fascists such as the group Campaign Against Nazis mobilised against neo-nazis around Melbourne, and later in protests against Pauline Hanson. These demos were key to stopping Hanson being used as a springboard for fascists, especially in Victoria.

Over the past year we have seen continual protests by the far-right, both globally and here in Melbourne. This far-right movement that has taken up anti-public health demands around COVID-19 and has at its fore far-right and fascist figures.

What history has taught us though, is that we can't simply ignore the far-right. While the recent far-right protests have died down on the streets to an extent, this reactionary logic of individualism before public safety still simmers beneath the surface and anti-fascists must be ready to push back against them to stop their growth.

When: Tuesday, 26 October, 2021 at 6pm
Where: Online (Zoom)