How to stop the Fascist Creep, Sunday 11th May 2025
Estimated 2 minute total read time
Summary of discussions
What struck you about what you heard, any reflections?
Below is a word cloud generated from the reflections in the different groups. Larger words indicate more frequent mentions. Prominent themes include freedom, media, right, community, fear, healthcare, trust, inclusion, safety, and empathy — highlighting deep concerns around societal division, personal rights, and the impact of political narratives.
Below is a summary of group discussions on “What can be done to help prevent fascist creep locally?”
Build Stronger, Inclusive Communities
- Create community hubs, youth clubs, informal gathering spaces, and projects like community games.
- Encourage cross-cultural dialogue, twinning programs (e.g. Somali Kitchen & local farms), and events that bridge divides.
- Promote welcoming, inclusive environments that actively counter “othering”
Foster Conversations & Human Connection
- Hold open, non-judgmental conversations—even with those you disagree with.
- Use compassionate communication and deep listening practices.
- Avoid shaming; instead, encourage dialogue with “far-right hesitant” individuals.
- Host Q&As, debates, and storytelling events to humanize perspectives.
Better Communication & Storytelling
- Create compelling narratives through positive storytelling, arts, and media (especially social media).
- Use branding, creative messaging, and counter-narratives to challenge fascist framing.
- Start local blogs, stalls, and community media to amplify local voices, e.g. amplifystroud.com
- Share facts with clarity—use cribsheets, history-based messaging, and simple language.
Education & Awareness
- Encourage critical thinking, media literacy, and awareness of propaganda (including algorithms, influencers like Andrew Tate).
- Develop youth-led political education projects and outreach.
- Address unconscious bias and promote understanding of fascism, history, and social impact.
Action, Activism & Civic Engagement
- Get active: attend events, support anti-poverty services, and show up visibly (e.g. in streets, at councils).
- Promote bystander training, accountability, and community resilience programs.
- Campaign for electoral reform, engage with MPs, and challenge disinformation.
- Support public services (like free transport, housing, healthcare) to reduce social precarity.
Creativity, Culture & Hope
- Use art, comedy, and shared experiences to connect and uplift.
- Promote hope and empathy as guiding principles.
- Model the behaviour you want to see—compassion, courage, and kindness.
If you’re interested in exploring any of the above in collaboration with us, please contact us!
Community Solidarity Stroud District 