Numerous national and international holidays commemorate the struggle against fascism, encompassing both officially recognized occasions marking the defeat of Nazi Germany and unofficial observances embraced by the contemporary Antifa movement and its supporters.
Beyond formal state holidays, diverse expressions of resistance bloom, from official commemorations to vibrant grassroots movements. This list of anti-fascist holidays showcases how the fight against fascism continues to inspire and unite people across borders.
National Anti-Fascist Holidays
There are a number of nationally recognized anti-fascist holidays. Most are held in countries that fought against Nazi Germany.
The Anti-Fascist Struggle of the People of Croatia
Dan antifašističke borbe, or Anti-Fascist Struggle Day, is a significant date in Croatian history, commemorated annually on June 22nd. It marks the formation of the First Sisak Partisan Detachment in 1941, a pivotal moment in the country’s resistance against Nazi Germany and its allies during World War II. It is one of the most well known anti-fascist holidays in the world.
The antifascist movement in Croatia emerged during World War II when the Axis powers occupied the region. The Ustasha regime, led by Ante Pavelić, collaborated with Nazi Germany and carried out atrocities against various groups, including Serbs, Jews, and Roma. In response to this oppressive regime, a diverse coalition of communist-led Partisans and other antifascist forces formed the National Liberation Army and Partisan Detachments of Yugoslavia (NOV i POJ). This resistance movement, which included people from different ethnic backgrounds, aimed to liberate Yugoslavia from fascist occupation and establish a more just and egalitarian society.
The Partisans, led by Josip Broz Tito, played a crucial role in the antifascist struggle in Croatia. They conducted guerrilla warfare, engaging in both military actions and efforts to mobilize the civilian population against the occupiers. The movement attracted individuals who were motivated by a shared commitment to defeating fascism and establishing a socialist Yugoslavia. The NOB was not solely a military endeavor; it also encompassed broader social and political goals, including the promotion of social justice, equality, and the establishment of a federative state.
The post-war period saw the formation of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY), with Croatia as one of its constituent republics. The NOB and its antifascist legacy played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of post-war Yugoslavia. Tito’s leadership sought to maintain unity among the diverse ethnic groups within Yugoslavia, emphasizing a shared antifascist past as a unifying force.
Commemorations often involve wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials, cultural events showcasing music, poetry, and art inspired by the anti-fascist struggle, and educational initiatives for younger generations. These activities serve to keep the memory of the resistance alive and ensure that the sacrifices made by those who came before us are not in vain.
Day of the Macedonian Uprising In Macedonia
The Day of the Macedonian Uprising is commemorated on October 11th in North Macedonia. It marks the day in 1941 when the first armed resistance against the Axis occupation and Bulgarian collaboration began, igniting the flames of the Anti-Fascist Struggle in Yugoslav Macedonia.
Following the April 1941 invasion of Yugoslavia by Nazi Germany and its allies, Vardar Macedonia, encompassing most of present-day North Macedonia, was divided and annexed by Bulgaria. This annexation, coupled with the oppressive policies of the Bulgarian occupation and the formation of a collaborationist government, fueled widespread discontent and resistance among the Macedonian population.
The Nazi occupation was marked by repressive measures and atrocities against various ethnic and religious groups, including the Macedonian population.
On October 11th, 1941, a group of young Communist activists, led by Duško Naumovski, launched a daring attack on the Bulgarian police station in Prilep. This audacious act, though resulting in the accidental death of a Bulgarian policeman, served as a potent symbol of defiance and galvanized the nascent resistance movement.
The attack in Prilep sparked a chain reaction. In the following weeks and months, armed uprisings erupted across Vardar Macedonia, with communist partisans taking to the mountains and rural areas to engage in guerilla warfare against the occupying forces. The uprising attracted diverse segments of the Macedonian population, including peasants, workers, intellectuals, and even members of the former Yugoslav army.
The Macedonian partisan movement grew over time, attracting people from different ethnic backgrounds and social strata who shared a common goal of resisting fascism and seeking liberation. The partisans engaged in guerrilla warfare, sabotaging Axis operations and gradually expanding their influence in the region.
The uprising not only marked the beginning of the armed resistance against fascism but also served as a crucial step in the consolidation of a distinct Macedonian national identity.
Today, the Day of the Macedonian Uprising is a national holiday in North Macedonia, marked with solemn ceremonies, cultural events, and educational initiatives. The 11th of October Museum in Prilep, housed in the former Bulgarian police station attacked by Naumovski, stands as a poignant testament to the uprising’s legacy.
The Day of Victory over Fascism in Georgia
In Georgia, there are two significant holidays, one celebrates the defeat of the Nazis, the other commemorates the occupation of the country by the Soviet forces. Both of these holidays are celebrated in a similar way.
May 9th marks the official Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. It’s a day of remembrance and gratitude for the immense sacrifices made by Georgians during the war. Over 750,000 Georgians fought in the Red Army, with more than 300,000 sadly perishing.
February 25th commemorates the Red Army’s invasion of the country in 1921, which led to the Sovietization of Georgia. While the event itself is a complex and debated topic in Georgian history, February 25th also serves as a day to honor the contributions of Georgians who fought against fascism within the Soviet system.
These holidays include wreath laying at memorials like Vake Park’s Eternal Flame in Tbilisi, veterans, government officials, and citizens pay their respects to fallen soldiers.
The legacy of fighting against both fascism and the Soviet system has created a nuanced perspective in Georgia and many other post-Soviet states.
Festa della Liberazione in Italy
A day etched in Italian history, commemorated every April 25th with joyful fervor and somber reflection. It’s a national holiday celebrating the liberation of Italy from fascism during World War II, marking the culmination of the anti-fascist resistance movement and the dawn of a new era for the nation.
April 25, 1945, marked the day when the cities of Milan and Turin were liberated, and it is considered a turning point in the final days of World War II in Italy. The liberation of these cities was a prelude to the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany in May 1945. This hard-won freedom ended 20 years of fascist dictatorship and five brutal years of war, paving the way for a democratic future.
The Italian resistance movement, known as the Italian Partisan Force (Resistenza italiana), played a vital role in the liberation. Partisans, composed of individuals from various political backgrounds, engaged in guerrilla warfare against the fascist regime and Nazi forces. Their courage and unwavering commitment to freedom are honored through wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials, poignant speeches highlighting their bravery, and the haunting melody of “Bella Ciao,” the resistance anthem echoing through streets and piazzas.
Across Italy, Liberation Day is marked by various events and ceremonies. These include official ceremonies, parades, cultural activities, and gatherings at monuments and memorials dedicated to the fallen. Schools and workplaces may also observe the day with educational programs and discussions about the historical significance of the events.
A symbolic gesture associated with Liberation Day is the wearing of red carnations. This tradition is linked to the events of April 25, 1945, when as a sign of solidarity, partisans and citizens exchanged red carnations as Allied forces entered the cities.
European Day of Remembrance for Victims of all Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes
The European Day of Remembrance for Victims of all Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes, observed annually on August 23rd, serves as a solemn reminder of the devastating human cost of oppression and a call for vigilance against its enduring threat.
The European Parliament passed a resolution in 2008 officially designating August 23rd as the European Day of Remembrance for Victims of Totalitarian and Authoritarian Regimes. The resolution called for a common European understanding of history and a commitment to democratic values.
August 23rd was deliberately chosen to mark the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1939, a non-aggression pact between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. This infamous agreement, with its secret protocols, effectively divided Eastern Europe into spheres of influence, paving the way for Soviet occupation of the Baltic states and the Nazi invasion of Poland, which ignited World War II.
The European Day of Remembrance was established to acknowledge the suffering and injustices inflicted upon individuals by totalitarian and authoritarian regimes in Europe. This includes the victims of Nazi Germany, Stalinist Soviet Union, Fascist Italy, Francoist Spain, and other regimes that violated human rights and suppressed dissent.
The Day of Remembrance transcends mere commemoration. It aims to educate future generations about the dangers of these ideologies, emphasizing the importance of defending democracy and human rights. The day serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of democratic values and the constant need to safeguard them against the temptations of authoritarianism.
The day is also meant to promoting tolerance and understanding by acknowledging the suffering inflicted by intolerance and discrimination, the day encourages active steps to foster inclusivity and respect for diversity.
Likewise the upholding the rule of law is an important part of this holiday. The day underlines the importance of independent judiciaries and strong legal systems to prevent abuses of power and protect individuals from arbitrary violence and persecution.
International Romani Day
International Romani Day, observed on April 8th each year, is a day dedicated to celebrating Romani culture and raising awareness about the challenges faced by the Romani people, also known as the Roma or Romani community. This day provides an opportunity to acknowledge their rich cultural heritage and history, while also addressing issues of discrimination and marginalization that the Romani people often experience.
The Romani people are an ethnic group with a diverse culture, including various traditions, languages, and lifestyles. International Romani Day serves as a platform for promoting understanding, respect, and appreciation for Romani culture and contributions to society. It is a day to recognize the resilience of the Romani people in the face of historical discrimination, stereotypes, and social exclusion.
On International Romani Day, events and activities are organized worldwide to celebrate Romani culture. These may include cultural performances, music and dance events, art exhibitions, educational programs, and discussions on the challenges faced by the Romani community. The day is an opportunity for Romani people to share their stories, traditions, and achievements with the broader public.
At the same time, International Romani Day also emphasizes the need for addressing issues such as discrimination, inequality, and social exclusion that the Romani people continue to face in various parts of the world. Advocates use this day to draw attention to the importance of combating stereotypes, promoting inclusivity, and fostering equal opportunities for the Romani community.
Juneteenth
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. The significance of Juneteenth lies in the announcement of General Gordon Granger in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, proclaiming the end of slavery, nearly two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed.
In the context of anti-fascism, Juneteenth represents a historical moment of liberation and resistance against an oppressive system. The end of slavery marked a crucial step towards dismantling a deeply entrenched institution rooted in racism, discrimination, and dehumanization. The struggle for emancipation was a form of resistance against the fascist-like structures that sought to deny basic human rights and perpetuate inequality.
Juneteenth, as a celebration, underscores the resilience and determination of African Americans in their fight against systemic oppression. It symbolizes a triumph over fascist ideologies that supported slavery and sought to maintain power through racial subjugation. The collective efforts to secure freedom reflect a powerful anti-fascist sentiment, emphasizing the rejection of authoritarianism and the pursuit of equality, justice, and human dignity.
The celebration of Juneteenth as an anti-fascist act extends beyond historical reflection. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against systemic racism and injustice. The fight for civil rights and equality continues, and Juneteenth stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of resistance against oppressive structures that deny fundamental freedoms.
In recognizing Juneteenth, individuals engage in an anti-fascist act by acknowledging historical struggles, fostering understanding, and actively working towards a society that rejects discrimination and embraces the principles of equality and justice for all. Juneteenth serves as both a celebration of progress and a call to continue the fight against any form of oppression that seeks to undermine the inherent dignity of individuals.
Victory Day over Japanese Fascism
Victory Day over Japanese Fascism in China, also known as Victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, is commemorated on September 3rd each year. This day marks the official end of World War II in Asia and the Pacific, specifically the victory of China over Japanese aggression.
The significance of this day lies in the culmination of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, a conflict that started with the Marco Polo Bridge Incident on July 7, 1937, and continued until Japan’s surrender in 1945. The war was a part of the larger Pacific theater of World War II.
On September 3, 1945, representatives of the Chinese government and the Allied forces gathered in Nanjing to witness the formal Japanese surrender. This event signaled the end of Japan’s imperialistic ambitions in China and the liberation of the Chinese people from years of brutal occupation and warfare.
The Victory Day over Japanese Fascism in China is observed with various commemorative activities, including ceremonies, military parades, and public events. These activities aim to honor the sacrifices made by the Chinese people during the war and to celebrate the resilience and determination that led to victory. It is a day to remember those who fought and died in the struggle against Japanese aggression, as well as to emphasize the importance of peace, unity, and the rejection of fascist ideologies.
The commemoration also serves as a reminder of the broader international effort to resist fascism during World War II and the significance of collective action in the face of tyranny. Victory Day over Japanese Fascism in China is an occasion for reflection on history, paying tribute to the heroes of the war, and reaffirming the commitment to peace and cooperation among nations.
Soweto Uprising Day
Soweto Uprising Day, observed on June 16th each year, commemorates the Soweto Uprising of 1976 in South Africa. The term “Soweto” is an abbreviation for South Western Townships, a group of townships near Johannesburg where a significant portion of the Black population was forced to live under apartheid policies.
The Soweto Uprising was a pivotal moment in the struggle against apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the South African government. On June 16, 1976, thousands of Black students took to the streets to protest the government’s decision to enforce the use of Afrikaans, the language of the oppressor, as the medium of instruction in schools. This policy was seen as an attempt to further marginalize and assimilate Black students.
The peaceful protest turned violent when police opened fire on the unarmed demonstrators, resulting in numerous casualties, including children. One of the first students to be shot was 13-year-old Hector Pieterson, whose iconic image being carried by another student became a symbol of the brutality of apartheid.
The Soweto Uprising marked a turning point in the anti-apartheid movement, galvanizing international condemnation of the South African regime and intensifying resistance within the country. It fueled a broader struggle against apartheid and contributed to the eventual dismantling of the oppressive system.
Soweto Uprising Day is observed as a remembrance of the sacrifices made by the youth in the fight against apartheid. The day is an opportunity to reflect on the historical significance of the events of 1976, honor the lives lost, and acknowledge the resilience and courage of those who stood against injustice. The uprising became a turning point in the fight against apartheid and continues to inspire anti-racist movements around the world.
May Day
International Workers’ Day, commonly known as May Day, has deep historical roots in workers’ struggles and movements for labor rights. When viewed from an anti-fascist perspective, May Day takes on added significance as a day of solidarity against oppressive systems and a celebration of collective resistance.
May Day traces its origins to the labor movement of the late 19th century, particularly the Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886, where workers were striking for an eight-hour workday. A peaceful demonstration turned violent when a bomb was thrown, leading to the deaths of both police officers and civilians. The event became a symbol of the global labor struggle.
From an anti-fascist standpoint, May Day represents a day of defiance against authoritarian regimes and an assertion of workers’ rights in the face of oppressive forces. In many instances, anti-fascist activists and movements align themselves with the broader workers’ rights movement, emphasizing the interconnectedness of social, economic, and political struggles.
May Day serves as a reminder of the historical battles fought by workers against exploitation and repression. Anti-fascists often use this day to draw attention to contemporary issues, linking labor rights with broader concerns such as anti-racism, gender equality, and social justice. The day becomes a platform for challenging not only economic inequalities but also the systemic injustices perpetuated by fascist ideologies.
Protests, demonstrations, and rallies held on May Day often echo anti-fascist sentiments, advocating for a world that rejects authoritarianism, racism, and discrimination. The emphasis on solidarity, equality, and justice aligns with the core principles of anti-fascist movements, fostering a sense of unity in the struggle against oppressive systems. For many May Day is a day to join anti-capitalist marches or even going to a political punk rock concert.
