Introduction

Antifa, or anti-fascist, is a loosely organized far-left/anarchist political movement whose members combat oppressive and violent ideologies, organize political demonstrations, and carry out small-scale acts of civil disobedience in pursuit of their goals. The movement rose to prominence during the 2017 United States presidential election and continues to be active today. Antifa’s beliefs and tactics, however, have been met with controversy and criticism.

History of the Movement

The first use of the term itself dates back to the 1920s in Germany during the Weimar Republic, when a leftist political faction emerged among dissatisfied working-class and ex-servicemen. These members actively conducted both physical and verbal confrontations with fascism, a political ideology that adheres to oppressive, racist, and authoritarian values.

From then, the movement experienced a resurgence in the late 70s and early 80s as members sought to combat the spread of far-right neo-Nazism. Although the movement experienced steady growth in numbers throughout the decades, the 2000s saw a surge in antifas ideology, mainly due to white nationalist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan and the American Nazi Party.

Beliefs and Tactics

The antifas’ core philosophies are centered around anti-racism and revolutionary communist values, with members identifying as anarchist, communist, socialist, and anti-capitalist. Furthermore, members seek to destroy oppressive power structures, such as racism and sexism, as well as right-wing authoritarianism. On the tactical front, members are known to carry out counter-demonstrations against fascist, neo-fascist and far-right groups, as well as small-scale attacks on fascist-owned buildings.

Controversy and Criticism

Despite their main goal of combating fascism, many have argued that the methods and tactics adopted by antifas have gone too far, with some identifying their activities as violence and vandalism, or even terrorism. Furthermore, some have criticized the movement’s tactics for being counter-productive, since peaceful methods such as boycotts and public demonstrations are often overshadowed by antifas’ displays of aggression.

Conclusion

The antifas movement continues to garner negative attention from mainstream media and the public, however, antifas are determined and passionate about their mission to fight oppressive ideologies and promote left-wing reform. While their methods and ideologies have been a source of controversy and debate, it is clear that the antifas movement continues to stay strong and unyielding in their mission to combat hate and oppression.