An Antinazizone press release
On Sunday, August 4th, the 31st Antinazizone-YRE Summer Camp came to a close. For years, this camp has served as a gathering place for individuals brought together by their concerns about the direction of the world, the search for ideas and methods to enact change, and the commitment to fight for a different future. It also offers an alternative, meaningful holiday experience.
A Community
This year, at the DIAS campsite in Gythio, a vibrant community was once again formed. People of all ages—from newborns to seniors—came together from various countries including Greece, Turkey, Italy, Romania, Germany, the USA, Cyprus, and Denmark. The camp also welcomed second-generation immigrants, individuals with diverse sexual orientations, and of course, people with different perspectives.
A total of 258 participants lived together harmoniously, free from tensions. Each day, the food received enthusiastic praise. In the evenings, attendees gathered in the event area to enjoy music and socialize. The collective dancing during the traditional, rebetiko and Cretan feasts was unforgettable, while the karaoke sessions, with participants young and old, sparked laughter and got everyone moving. Elianna One Woman Band charmed the audience with her blues, and the final night’s party left both young and old exhilarated. Morning yoga classes were followed by beach volleyball and soccer games in the afternoon. After lunch, children assembled for the Children’s Council, where they engaged in discussions, played games, and prepared a performance addressing plastic pollution in the oceans.
In the evening, children’s film screenings attracted over 50 kids of all ages. The adult screenings created a summer cinema experience in the midst of nature. Additionally, two excursions to nearby beaches were organized as part of the camp.
The Discussions
Despite the climate of frustration and challenges faced by movements and progressive people in Greece over the past few years, the discussions at the camp once again demonstrated that there is a segment of society actively seeking answers to the crises brought on by the capitalist system.
This is why the 12 discussions sparked particular interest among young people, though they were not the only ones engaged. Here are a few highlights to give readers an idea.
The camp wouldn’t have been possible without a discussion on the massacre in Palestine. This discussion featured activist and filmmaker Alexia Tsouni, who provided a vivid account of her travels in the West Bank. She spoke about the daily oppression faced by Palestinians even before October 7th and described how apartheid policies are enforced. The discussion was followed by a screening of her documentary Shalom – Salaam – Peace, which focuses on the struggle of Israeli citizens, particularly conscientious objectors, who oppose their government, the occupation of Palestinian land, and the ongoing genocide. The common theme was the need for a united struggle among the oppressed on both sides of the conflict against their oppressors, with international solidarity highlighted as the only hope.
The rise of the far right was, unsurprisingly, a key topic in many discussions. In addition to exploring the new agenda of the far right, there was a special session featuring a presentation by Italian comrades on the history of Italian fascism and the current situation.
Another significant theme at the camp was the so-called “identity politics” and its impact on the movement. This topic has not been sufficiently discussed within the Left, making it difficult to counter the influence of bourgeois ideology, particularly bourgeois feminism, on today’s movements.
The discussion on cancel culture and political correctness also garnered great interest, with participants exchanging different views in a calm and friendly atmosphere. Another engaging discussion focused on bullying in schools and the measures announced by the greek government. This session also included updates on issues related to discipline and militarism in schools from Turkey, Romania, and Italy.
Finally, special mention should be made of the open meeting, which featured a presentation by the Antifascist Coordination of Athens-Piraeus. This meeting covered upcoming antifascist actions to be organized in schools and neighborhoods starting in September, as well as plans for a major two-day antifascist event in the spring, which will include numerous discussions that delve into specific issues and aspects.
A Breath of Fresh Air
In the era of “staycation” -where the mainstream media push poor people who can’t afford a holiday to stay at home and “enjoy it”, the Antinazizone-YRE camp offers an alternative that allows people to enjoy a meaningful holiday while connecting with others who share their concerns.
It’s also a valuable opportunity for those who want to get involved in movements and struggles aimed at changing the current situation. In any case, the camp serves as a breath of fresh air for everyone involved, providing a rejuvenating environment amidst the various challenges we face.
This is why the camp continues to thrive and grow!
The success of the Antinazizone-YRE camp is due to the collective effort of all participants. Special thanks are owed to our cook, the musicians, the organizers of various activities and workshops, the dozens of volunteers who worked shifts from 8 a.m. until after midnight, those who prepared the discussions, the participants, and everyone who contributed to making this 10-day event possible.
