Why is it Important we learn the history of Sunderland Spanish civil war heroes?
What is Solidarity Sunderland about?
Solidarity Sunderland focuses on a remarkable period in the city’s past: the Spanish Civil War of the 1930s. During this time, many people from Sunderland not only volunteered to fight fascism in Spain where many died but also contributed significantly from home. They organized aid, raised funds, and supported refugees. This included brave efforts by Sunderland seamen who risked their lives breaking naval blockades to deliver vital supplies to the besieged Spanish Republic.
The Solidarity Sunderland project is dedicated to ensuring these efforts are remembered by building a significant community participation memorial monument. It’s about recognizing the courage and compassion shown by ordinary people. More than just a historical recount, it aims to use these stories to encourage a similar spirit of community and action today. The focus is a mix of Education, Art, and Memory.
Why is this relevant to you?
You might wonder how events from nearly a century ago connect to your life now. The individuals in Sunderland who supported the Spanish cause understood the importance of standing up against injustice and working together for a shared goal. These are principles that remain valuable in our current world.
What motivated people in Sunderland to support this cause and give so much? Many were driven by a strong sense of anti-fascism, seeing the rise of authoritarian regimes in Spain, Germany, and Italy as a grave threat to democracy and human rights. There was also a powerful feeling of working-class solidarity, identifying with the struggles of ordinary people in Spain. The desire to defend democracy against totalitarianism, and a deep sense of humanitarianism to help those suffering, also played significant roles. They believed that standing with the Spanish people was standing up for justice and freedom everywhere including Sunderland and the people’s struggle for better lives.
Solidarity Sunderland seeks to involve young people in this legacy. The belief is that by understanding these historical acts of solidarity, we can be better equipped to address present-day challenges and build a more cohesive society.
What can you do ?
This initiative isn’t just about learning history; it’s about participating. Solidarity Sunderland plans to establish a monument in the city to honour these historical acts of solidarity. We are actively seeking input and involvement from young people and the wider community in the design and development of this tribute.
- Creative Input: If you’re interested in art or design, this is a chance to contribute to a tangible project. The goal is to blend historical memory, artistic expression, and education. For instance, the artist Rob MacDonald, will be in residency at Sunderland College from September 2025. Students will have the opportunity to learn about this history and interpret it through art in many different projects
- Designing and making the actual monument. As we go forward we are looking for young people that want to help actually make the monument.
- Historical Exploration: This is an opportunity to explore a significant chapter of Sunderland’s history and see how local people contributed to international events. You can learn how to conduct research and how to critically analysis historic facts.
- Community Engagement: The project brings together various groups—historians, artists, families of those who participated, local activists, and especially young people. It’s a way to connect with your community and collaborate on a meaningful endeavour. Help us organise – Get in Contact.
- Promoting Unity: Your involvement supports a project that champions unity and understanding, and stands against divisive ideologies. Those from Sunderland we are paying tribute to really understood this key working class attitude.
Email if you’re interested in being involved – Everyone has something to offer.
Solidaritysunderland@gmail.com
Solidarity Park 