Title: The mobilization against anti-Semitism in Paris: a march for unity and against forgetting
Introduction :
The march against anti-Semitism held in Paris on November 9, 2023 brought together thousands of people who came to express their support for the Jewish community and condemn the increase in anti-Semitic acts in France. However, this mobilization was also marked by the controversy surrounding the presence of the National Rally (RN), a far-right party with a troubled past. In this article, we will return to this controversy and we will highlight the importance of this march for unity and the fight against forgetting.
A reminder of the RN’s past:
The Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France (Crif) expressed its opposition to the participation of the National Rally in the march against anti-Semitism. Crif president Yonathan Arfi stressed that the party came from a troubled heritage, founded by former collaborators during the Second World War. This warning demonstrates the need not to forget the dark pages of history and to be vigilant about the values and motivations of the participants in the march.
The controversy surrounding the presence of the RN:
The RN’s decision to participate in the march against anti-Semitism sparked controversy. Some say the party’s presence could distract from the main goal of the demonstration, which is to fight anti-Semitism. Others believe that this participation shows a desire to renounce anti-Semitism within the party. This division reflects the internal debates that drive the RN and reveals the fractures that exist within this political formation.
The historic mobilization for the Republic and against anti-Semitism:
Despite the controversy surrounding the presence of the RN, the march against anti-Semitism was a historic mobilization. Thousands of people of all faiths responded to Crif’s call and expressed their solidarity with the Jewish community. This march highlighted the need to fight anti-Semitism and defend the Republican values of equality and fraternity.
The importance of unity and the fight against forgetting:
The participation of all political actors, except the extremes, would have been a strong symbol of national unity in the fight against anti-Semitism. It is crucial to remember history and not repeat past mistakes. The march against anti-Semitism recalled the importance of fighting all forms of racism and discrimination, and the need to promote a climate of inclusion and respect in our society.
Conclusion :
The march against anti-Semitism held in Paris on November 9, 2023 was both a historic mobilization and an opportunity to recall the lessons of the past. Despite the controversy surrounding the presence of the National Rally, this march made it possible to highlight the importance of unity in the fight against anti-Semitism and not to forget the dark pages of history. This mobilization demonstrates the desire of French society to defend republican values and promote inclusion and respect for all.