Why days like April 25th should be crucial worldwide
This postcard is special and includes photos.
The reason for this postcard today is that, if I’m not wrong, most of my readers here are not familiar with the date April 25th, 1974. If that’s the case, let me tell you why April 25th is my most cherished day of the year.
This will be an oversimplified explanation, as my intention with this post is not to give you a history lesson, but to honor this day by sharing its significance with you.
Portugal, my country, was ruled by fascism for more than four decades (1933–1974). During this time, its people were subjected to censorship, limited access to education and other basic rights, no freedom of speech, and no fair trials. The population lived in constant fear of surveillance by the secret police, facing the risk of execution or imprisonment. Women's rights were even worse, barely non-existent. For example, as a woman before April 25th, you would need your husband’s or male guardian’s permission to travel or work.
On April 25th, 1974, the rebel soldiers of the Portuguese military led the non-violent revolution, known as the Carnation Revolution, that overthrew the regime. After that day, the Portuguese people began working to build what we still have today: democracy. Not everything was perfect afterward, but we were finally free from oppression.
If you know or ever meet a Portuguese person who is on the right side of history, you will learn that this date is very dear to our hearts. April 25th means we live in freedom.
Nowadays, the world is more divided than I have ever seen in recent times. There are too many forces trying to shake democracy worldwide. April 25th, 1974, remains deeply present in our collective memory. The reality of fascism is in our DNA because 51 years ago is not that long ago. Days like April 25th should always be celebrated because what it represents is too valuable to be forgotten. Freedom is a fragile right; if we take it for granted, someone can take it away.
Wherever and whenever you are reading this, take a moment to celebrate freedom with Portugal and all the countries around the world that are no strangers to an authoritarian regime, past or present.
Now, I’m heading outside with my carnations to celebrate with the people in the streets and create new memories.
In freedom.
With love,
Raquel
PS - If you want to know more, you can start by watching this 4-minute video and this 15-minute video as an introduction to the subject, or you can ask me directly, and I can recommend proper documentaries.
Fascismo nunca mais! 25 de Abril sempre! (Fascism never again! April 25th forever!)
1974, my god! That’s not even that long ago. Thanks for sharing this history Raquel. I had the chance to visit Portugal three years ago and it’s a special place. Can’t wait to go back!