▸With the great march of the Polytechnic University to the embassies of the USA and Israel in Athens, the three-day events for the 51st anniversary of the November 1773 uprising culminate on Sunday, November 17. Similar marches and demonstrations are taking place in many cities of the country.
The gathering of collectives, unions, associations and political organizations of the Left is in Klathmonos square at 3 pm. They also call there Initiative for a Modern Communist Program and Party, the NARP for Communist Liberationthe Youth Communist Liberation and other organizations.
Stefani at the site of EM. Polytechnic University filed a while ago the NARP and the @neolaiaKA with comrades honoring the uprising by shouting slogans #Polytechnic pic.twitter.com/w1tImLhfb9
— Before (@PRIngr) November 16, 2024
The march this year will head to the Israeli embassy, after first passing through the American embassy. This political move is made to denounce the genocide carried out by Israel in Gaza and in Palestine in general, with the support of the USA/NATO and the EU and to demand the cessation of all support and participation of the Greek state in the terrorist state of Israel . A few days ago political organizations of the Left had addressed a related call.
On Saturday 11/16 at 4 p.m. the polytechnic will take place on the site of the Polytechnic interesting event of Initiative for a modern communist program and party about the wars of capital in our time and the response of the anti-war movement and the Communist Left. Sofoklis Kaloidas and Giorgos Pavlopoulos will speak.
Interview: Reflecting on the 51st Anniversary of the Polytechnic Uprising
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to this special interview. Today, we have with us Dr. Emily Konstantinou, an expert in modern Greek political movements and the historical significance of the Polytechnic Uprising. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Konstantinou.
Dr. Emily Konstantinou (EK): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important event.
TNE: This year marks the 51st anniversary of the Polytechnic Uprising, a pivotal moment in modern Greek history. Could you give us a brief overview of its significance?
EK: Absolutely. The Polytechnic Uprising in 1973 was a student-led protest against the military junta that ruled Greece at the time. It started as a demonstration calling for democracy and human rights, and tragically escalated when the regime responded with brutal force. The protests at the Polytechnic University in Athens rallied the public against oppression and ultimately contributed to the downfall of the junta.
TNE: This year’s events, particularly the march towards the US and Israeli embassies, seem to have a different focus. Can you explain the motivations behind this demonstration?
EK: Yes, this year’s march has a dual purpose. It not only commemorates the uprising but also serves as a political statement against current injustices, particularly the violence and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The chosen route—first to the American embassy and then to the Israeli embassy—symbolizes the perceived complicity of the US in supporting Israel’s actions. The participants believe that, much like the repression they faced in 1973, current injustices require strong public opposition.
TNE: It’s interesting to see historical events like the Polytechnic Uprising resonate with current global issues. How do you think the legacy of the uprising influences today’s political activism in Greece?
EK: The Polytechnic Uprising is a powerful symbol of resistance against authoritarianism and for civil rights. Today’s activists draw inspiration from it to confront contemporary political challenges. The connection between past and present struggles is vital; activists today invoke the spirit of the uprising to assert their demands for justice, equality, and peace, particularly in the context of international issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
TNE: We see various leftist groups participating in the current demonstrations, including the NARP and the Youth Communist Liberation. How does this collective action reflect broader trends in Greek politics?
EK: The participation of diverse leftist groups signifies a reinvigorated spirit of solidarity among activists. In recent years, we’ve seen a resurgence in leftist political movements in Greece, partly in response to economic austerity measures and a perceived lack of government accountability. The ability of these groups to organize such a large demonstration reflects not only their collective power but also a unified stance on international solidarity, echoing sentiments of resistance akin to those seen in 1973.
TNE: With numerous cities across Greece engaging in similar demonstrations, what does this say about the current state of civic engagement in the country?
EK: It illustrates a heightened level of civic engagement and consciousness among the populace. More people are willing to take to the streets to voice their concerns about both domestic and foreign policies. The fact that this year’s marches are occurring simultaneously in several places is a testament to the collective frustration and desire for change that many Greeks feel today.
TNE: Looking ahead, what do you believe the future holds for political movements in Greece, especially in the context of ongoing global crises?
EK: The future of political movements in Greece will likely continue to be shaped by both local grievances and global issues. Activists are becoming increasingly aware of the interconnectedness of social justice movements worldwide. As crises such as climate change, economic inequality, and international conflicts unfold, I anticipate we will see a blending of local and global activism, with a focus on solidarity and collective action across various platforms.
TNE: Thank you so much for your insights, Dr. Konstantinou. It’s clear that the academic lens allows us to understand the importance of these events not only in the past but in shaping current and future societal dynamics.
EK: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss these vital issues with you.
TNE: We appreciate your time and expertise. We’ll continue to follow the developments surrounding the Polytechnic Uprising and its implications for Greece and beyond.