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Solidarity Park International blends education, historical memory, and community art to promote international solidarity.The project began in Catalonia, commemorating the International Brigaders aboard the SS City of Barcelona - which was sunk by a fascist Submarine in May 1937 - and the local community of Malgrat de Mar who tried to rescue the passengers.
Since then, the project has developed a living monument on Malgrat's beach, an international education program reaching over 10,000 students, an annual history and arts festival - now in its fifth year. Our mission is to unite people today against the growing threat of fascism.
Solidarity Park is now expanding internationally, with projects in South Wales, Surrey, Hull, and Sunderland. There are also new collaborations in France, Holland, and Australia, hence the formation of Solidarity Park International.
Solidarity Sunderland is part of Solidarity Park International. We aim to promote the history of the people from Sunderland who opposed fascism in the 1930s and during the Spanish Civil War (1936-39). At least 20 volunteers from Sunderland fought in the International Brigade in Spain with one Sunderland born nurse, these were supported by many other Sunderland people; through aid, fundraising, breaking naval blockades and caring for Basque refugee children.
We want to tell the stories of Sunderland heroes, two such are Captain Joseph Andrews and Eileen O'Shaughnessy Blair (George Orwell's wife). The actions of these heroes reflect Sunderland's values and leave a lasting legacy of humanity and resistance.
Solidarity Sunderland's main goal is to create a major public monument and community project in Sunderland; co-developed with young people it includes artists, historians, descendants of International Brigaders, activists, educational establishments, trade unions, and the wider public. All uniting to oppose far-right ideologies.
Rob Macdonald will talk about Solidarity Park International, Tony Fox will talk about the individuals from Sunderland who went to the aid of the Spanish Republic. Guest will also have the opportunity to try their hand at Community Carving, as Rob will bring along the 'Northern Brigadista' sculpture which is helping to promote the campaign for the Solidarity Sunderland community participation monument to the international Brigades.
We are also pleased to announce that our good friend and comrade Sara Dennis has agreed to perform on this evening, providing associated music and songs.
Refreshments will be provided by The Friends of St Cuthbert's Church, Billingham.
Contact : [email protected] or [email protected] or [email protected] for further details
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
St Curthberts Church, Billingham, Stockton-on-tees, United Kingdom
