Tough Mind Soft Heart Nurturing solidarity in the struggle against fascism Tough Mind, Soft Heart: Nurturing Solidarity In The Struggle Against Fascism (2019) Cover art by N.O. Bonzo (slightly modified) by stinging nettles
[email protected] “One must have a tough mind and a soft heart.” - Sophie Scholl Thank you to the village it has taken to keep me going through the rough patches! Shout out to free self-defense classes, jail support, community gatherings with food, and places to sleep. Special thanks to Antifa International for helping me in a jam, the Victoria Anarchist Bookfair for hosting the workshop this zine is based on, and to the people who helped me edit and work through ideas. Thank you to my family, therapists, and the many comrades and friends who I’ve worked with and supported me in all different ways throughout the years, I appreciate you! Contents Introduction 7 Nurturing Antifascism 11 Obstacles 17 Trauma & Support 21 Fear & Boundaries 26 Dehumanization & Compassion 33 Ego & Solidarity 40 Despair & Meaning 44 Conclusion 50 Endnotes 52 In Loving Memory 56 Introduction Antifascism has ebbed and flowed throughout the years depending on the need for it, and it seems the tide will not be going out for some time. The stresses of climate catastrophe and the corresponding global rise in authoritarianism has made fascism a more present and pressing menace than it has been in decades with no clear end in sight. There has also been a corresponding uptick and interest in fighting against fascism and a new wave of antifascists have emerged from all different corners in an inspiring upswell of action and energy alongside growing worldwide unrest and revolt.