Cambridge Unite Against Fascism
Statement re Holocaust Denial Leaflets in Cambridge

Cambridge Unite Against Fascism is appalled by the appearance of Holocaust Denial leaflets in a car park at Cambridge University. These leaflets seek to deny the accuracy of the film 'Denial', a film which debunks the claims of discredited historian and Holocaust denier David Irving. By seeking to belittle the horrific experience of millions in the Holocaust, these people seek to sanitise and make respectable the crimes committed in Nazi Germany.

Those who deny the Holocaust today do so because they wish to repeat it.

History shows us that fascism stands for the annihilation of entire communities and the complete and violent destruction of freedom of speech, democracy, human rights and all opposition.

Universities are not safe spaces The infamous images of fascist students burning books shortly after Hitler’s ascent to power should serve to remind us, both that our campuses are not immune from fascist ideas, and that fascism is itself the complete antithesis of reason, logic and rational debate. After all, ex BNP leader Nick Griffin studied at Downing College.

Never again!

Fascism threatens the safety of Black, Jewish, Muslim, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people of Cambridge including students and academics. Wherever fascists are active or have a presence, racist attacks and other hate crimes increase.

This is why Unite Against Fascism believes that Nazis should not be given a platform in public places, including universities.

The fact that these badly written and poorly produced national leaflets were distributed furtively and left on car windscreens, shows that Nazi ideas are still seen as unacceptable, beyond the pail of political discussion. This is due to the continued vigilance of anti Fascist campaigners such as UAF, a vigilance which must continue.

In the current climate, with the success of far right and Nazi parties in Europe and Trump's right wing agenda, we have to continue to unmask and confront Fascism wherever it appears. This is why UAF is supporting the National Demonstration called by Stand Up to Racism on United Nations Anti Racism Day, March 18th, against anti Semitism, Islamophobia and all forms of racism. We urge all those appalled by these leaflets to attend, so we can make the strongest possible statement that the crimes of the Holocaust must never be forgotten, downplayed or repeated.

This is what we mean when we say 'Never Again!'

Activities

* Leafleting against Holocaust Denial and Anti Semitism organised by UCU Union, Tuesday 21st February, 2pm, Law Faculty, Sidgwick Site, Cambridge University.

* National Demonstration on United Nations Anti Racism day, March 18th, against anti Semitism, Islamophobia and all forms of racism, called by Stand Up to Racism and backed by Unite Against Fascism and the TUC. Cheap transport from Cambridge, mail standuptoracism.cambridge@gmail.com for details

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