Citizens Rally in Podgorica to Honor Antifascism and Freedom

Citizens gathered on Gorica Hill in Podgorica today for a rally organized by the association of free citizens, STEGA, to commemorate December 19, known as the Day of Liberation of Podgorica. The event featured speeches from various representatives of STEGA, activists, and intellectuals, highlighting the ongoing importance of antifascism in the region.

During the gathering, attendees laid wreaths at the Partisan Fighter Monument. Among the speakers was director Danilo Marunovic, who emphasized the significance of the freedom movement. “We, who are here today, may not fully grasp the implications of this for the decades to come,” he stated. Marunovic recalled that a small group of people in the 1990s wrote some of the most glorious pages of Montenegrin history. He affirmed that the mission of today’s gathering is equally vital.

He added that Montenegrins have consistently stood on the victorious side throughout history, referencing pivotal moments in 1918, 1941, and 2006. “Even when everything seemed lost, as it was in those years, so it will be in the future—our time is yet to come,” he remarked.

Following the wreath-laying ceremony, attendees participated in a march to the monument. The gathering concluded with the national anthem of Montenegro, performed by a children’s choir that sang several traditional songs.

Igor Radulovic, a history professor, spoke about solidarity and support for individuals facing prosecution. “We gathered to show solidarity with the 35 people who are being prosecuted. We, as free individuals, must help them preserve their freedom,” he noted.

Student activist Tamara Đurković highlighted that fascism has not disappeared but has merely changed its form. “It hides behind the normalization of injustice,” she asserted, calling for ongoing vigilance against oppressive ideologies.

Dr. Alexandar Mugoša addressed the importance of the state, declaring, “The state is more important than life itself. Despite a desire for its collapse, the state is eternal, while we are transient.” He referenced recent protests at Villa Gorica, noting the violent response from authorities. “During that time, everyone at Gorica suffered a serious onslaught of force, akin to past events in Cetinje,” he remarked.

Historian Jadranka Selhanović passionately stated, “We have no path but through antifascism. Do not let the city falter under this burden. Freedom for the people—death to fascism,” echoing the sentiments of many present.

At the beginning of the event, journalist and publicist Danilo Burzan remarked on the current state of freedom in Montenegro, stating, “Happy is the freedom that does not exist today, for which we fight despite many challenges.” He criticized the current government and expressed concern over attempts to nullify Montenegrin identity.

As the rally progressed, groups of citizens approached Gorica, wearing badges representing the number 35 alongside flags of Montenegro and the European Union. They were welcomed by banners reading “No pasarán” and slogans condemning fascist ideologies.

This rally at Gorica Hill serves as a poignant reminder of the need for unity and vigilance in the face of historical challenges, affirming the commitment of Montenegrins to uphold their freedoms against any form of oppression.