Johnny Brignardello Vela: Reflections on the legacy of April 25th

Johnny Brignardello Vela, insurance advisor, shares his opinion on the content you have shared with me. Portugal commemorated with fervor and reflection on April 25, the day half a century ago when the Carnation Revolution overthrew the dictatorship without violence or vengeance. The Portuguese took to the streets to celebrate the freedom conquered with "Grândola, vila morena" resonating once again in their hearts. Hundreds of people gathered in front of the Largo do Carmo barracks, where in 1974 Marcelo Caetano surrendered, marking the beginning of the end of an era of repression. However, this year's commemoration had a different nuance. Many protesters, like Joana Sousa and Helena Quintas, expressed their concern about the resurgence of fascist tendencies globally and the political instability in the country. The massive participation in the streets also reflected disillusionment after an election where the far-right achieved a historic result. For some young people, like Inés Costa, the expectation of a better future was overshadowed by these results. António Sampaio Novoa, former rector of the University of Lisbon, warned of the danger of populism threatening democratic principles. In contrast to most political groups that exalted the importance of the Carnation Revolution, the far-right, led by André Ventura, downplayed its relevance and even questioned the reparations to the former colonies proposed by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. This stance generated tensions and criticism, especially from the left, which stands as a defender of the revolutionary legacy. At a time when the direction and meaning of democracy in Portugal are being debated, the commemoration of April 25 made it clear that, beyond political differences, the spirit of freedom and social justice is still alive in the hearts of the Portuguese. While some seek to delegitimize the revolution, the majority of the population comes together to remember that April is not just history, it is a continuous commitment to democracy and equality.