Migraine-fueled Thoughts of Democracy on a Historic Day.

April 25th marked the 50th anniversary of the Portuguese “Carnation Revolution.”

On April 25, 1974, the Portuguese military aligned with its people and overthrew the “Estado Novo” regime, the dictatorship government—formed with Antonio de Salazar as its leader—41 years prior. On that day, the Portuguese took back their country. They chose freedom over fascism. They chose democracy over dictatorship. They chose to move into the future with liberty instead of remaining in the past as a colonial empire.

50 years later, Portugal continues its democracy as the reemerging ghosts of fascism attempt to swallow Europe once again. Portugal’s liberty continues on as the United States faces its own internal battle with violent nationalism—as well as the rantings of a former leader thirsty for inflicting his tyrannical will upon those who vocally stand against him.

Democracy is both powerful and fragile. Its strength lies within the people who respect it and practice it with every waking moment. Its fragility arises when the people take it for granted and allow its flame to be extinguished by despotism—thus creating a pathway for those easily led by the ignorant arrogance of false prophets & “alpha males.”

Just as the revolutionaries of the past, we must be willing to stand up for what is ours. To use our collective voices against those who choose to restrict. To live our lives against those who choose to enforce codes from their ancient text upon all.

To stand up for our liberty. To stand up for our democracy. To stand up for our freedom.

Democracy is for all, but all must be willing to fight for it and protect it—no matter the cost.

Liberdade! 25 de Abril Sempre! Fascismo Nunca Mais!

Anthony Esteves-California

We thank Anthony for allowing Filamentos (arts and letters in the Azorean Diaspora) by Bruma Publications from PBBI-Fresno State to publish this testimonial about the Carnation revolution. It would be great to have other Americans of Portuguese ancestry follow Anthony’s lead. We would like to hear from you and continue to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the Revolution until April 2025.