[Image © Cam Slater, bfd.co.nz]
There is a lot of hatred being expressed online towards those who make the comparison between what we are seeing happen in New Zealand and the rise of fascism in Europe in the 1930’s.
Typically, those riled-up by the simile look at Germany of 1943 and see no resemblance to New Zealand today. But to do so is either naïve or disingenuous, because the relevant comparison is with fascism of the 1930’s, not the war years.
Remember, Hitler came to power democratically.
- In 1932, the Nazis won 33 percent of votes, more than any other party in that election.
- In January 1933, Hitler was appointed Chancellor, head of the German government.
- By May 1933, the Nazis had taken control of the trade union movement.
- In 1933, the German people enjoyed freedom of speech and freedom of the press. Through decrees and laws, the Nazis abolished these civil rights and destroyed German democracy.
- Starting in 1934, it was illegal to criticize the Nazi government.
- The Nazi government exercised a policy of taking over anti-Nazi media;
- They controlled what news appeared in newspapers, on the radio, and in newsreels.
Just tell me when all this starts looking familiar!
In his essay published in The BFD today, Cam Slater writes thoughtfully about the rise of fascism in Europe and its reflection in the New Zealand of today, in the Adern government. The comparison is not only valid, but should be chilling to even the most ardent supporter of Covid policy.
Published: 01 November 2021
CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE
From The BDF Website
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