A Historical Meeting in Paris
On June 18, 1937, the Paris Winter Velodrome became a key stage for the voices of the Second Spanish Republic. Prominent figures such as Joan Garcia Oliver and Federica Montseny, with a past as former ministers, take the floor to defend the need for support for Western democracies and to denounce the violence that rocked Spain due to the Civil War.
The Challenge to Criticism
With determination, Garcia Oliver and Montseny face the criticism they have received within anarchist circles, where they are accused of collaborating with the established government. Montseny, recognized as one of the most eloquent voices of the anarchist movement, takes over to transmit a message that goes beyond the borders of Spain.
The Vision of Federica Montseny
Montseny warns about the consequences that fascism can have for Europe and the world. His intervention, which was acclaimed by the press of the time, reflects a feeling of frustration at the inaction of the European democracies. In his words, he expresses that the fate of the world is at stake and that international indifference is a death trap.
The Call to International Consciousness
Montseny emphasizes that the democracies have failed to unite against fascism, and that the Internationals have failed to mobilize an effective response. His diatribe is a reminder of the importance of international solidarity in the face of the threat of totalitarianism.
The Spanish Reality
In his speech, Montseny contrasts the peaceful life of French society with the suffering of the Spanish. This contrast serves to call for responsibility and collective awareness, an instinct that the fight against fascism is not only a Spanish issue, but an affair that affects all of Europe.
A Message That Will Resonate Through Time
Montseny’s words, which resonate with a disturbing validity, remind us that history has a tendency to repeat itself if the lessons of the past are not learned. His warning about fascism and its destructive capacity appeals to us today, as the shadow of totalitarianism once again hovers over Europe.
Final Reflection
History teaches us that nations that ignore their mistakes are doomed to repeat them. At a time when global tensions are rising again, it is essential that society remembers the warnings of the past and act decisively to prevent fascism from gaining ground again.