Unite Against Fascism statement on Paris shootings

DON’T LET RACISTS AND FASCISTS DIVIDE US

We wholeheartedly condemn the attack on the Charlie Hebdo offices in Paris that left 12 innocent people dead and others injured. We send our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of all those killed.

While those who carried out this attack claimed to be acting in defence of Islam, the only effect of their actions will be to give an excuse to those who peddle real hatred against Muslims and strengthen their hand. At a time when Islamophobes, racists and fascists are polling high votes and galvanising support in street demonstrations across Europe, we must unite against Islamophobia, racism and fascism.

While condemning this attack, we must act against the danger that fascist, racist and Islamophobic organisations will seek to take advantage of this assault and use it to build support. We cannot allow the actions of a handful of murderous individuals to create the circumstances for rise in support for organisations that would genuinely persecute Muslims and undermine all of our rights. On the day of the attack #killallmuslims trended worldwide.

Fascist and far right groups that are advancing in Europe pose a real and grave threat to freedom and democracy. In France the Euro-fascist Front National will seek to take advantage. It is an organisation that does not use Nazi imagery but its origins lie in Vichy France and convicted Holocaust deniers such as former leader Jean Marie Le Pen, Marine Le Pen’s father.

In Germany the racist and fascist Pegida movement has organised large racist and Islamophobic street demonstrations, supported by far right and fascist political parties. In Greece the openly Neo Nazi Golden Dawn has presented a threat electorally and on the streets. Jobbik is a similar movement in Hungary.

In Britain right wing populist UKIP topped the poll in the Euro elections and gained two seats in Parliament. The fascist English Defence League (EDL) and British National Parry (BNP) – who have suffered a recent demise – Britain First and others will no doubt seek to use these events in France to build support here.

Across Europe we must learn the lessons of history. Christians, Muslims, Jews, Sikhs, Hindus, trade unions, liberals, socialists, social democrats, LGBT communities, students, black, white and young people and all those that stand for freedom and democracy, must unite against racism, fascism and Islamophobia. We must send a message loudly and clearly: don’t let the racists and fascists divide us.

http://uaf.org.uk/2015/01/uaf-condemns-paris-shootings/

Come to UAF conference on Saturday 21 February

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