“What does Homenagem 25 de Abril mean to you?” I ask. It is more than just a date. It’s a celebration of freedom. Homenagem 25 de Abril commemorates Portugal’s Carnation Revolution. This revolution ended 48 years of dictatorship on April 25, 1974.
Today at Homenagem 25 de Abril we celebrate freedom. We can express our opinions. We can be who we want to be. We can choose our own destiny. This year is special. It’s the 50th anniversary of Portugal conquering its freedom.
The Carnation Revolution was a peaceful military coup. It was initiated by the Armed Forces Movement. The revolution got its name from the red carnations. These were placed in the barrels of soldiers’ guns.
Lisbon was the main stage for the revolution. However actions were taken across the country. Key locations included Terreiro do Paço and Largo do Carmo. Here in Porto Homenagem 25 de Abril is a focal point of remembrance.
Two songs signaled the start of the coup. The first song was “E depois do Adeus”. Paulo de Carvalho performed it. Emissores Associados de Lisboa played it at 10:55 pm. This allowed the military to prepare. The second song was “Grândola Vila Morena”. José Afonso performed it. Rádio Renascença played it at 00:20 am. This gave the green light for the military operation. Forces came from Almada, Aveiro and other cities.
A woman named Celeste Caeiro played a key role. She worked in a restaurant in Chiado. The restaurant was celebrating its anniversary. She was distributing red carnations. When the owner heard about the revolution he gave Celeste the carnations. She gave them to soldiers who put them in their rifles. Florists in Lisbon did the same. The red carnations helped people identify the revolutionary troops.
During the dictatorship censorship was strict. Censors used a blue pencil to cross out texts. They banned anything questioning the regime. Freedom of expression became a major achievement of the revolution.
Here at Homenagem 25 de Abril in Porto we remember the past. We also celebrate the present. The city comes alive with festivities. There are concerts and activities for all ages. The traditional Freedom Parade winds through the streets. It culminates on Avenida dos Aliados.
The night before there is a videomapping show. It is projected on the façade of the Hotel Monumental. Photographer Alfredo Cunha musician Rodrigo Leão and artist Vhils collaborate. At midnight fireworks light up the sky. The sounds of freedom fill the air.
On April 25th homage is paid to anti-fascist resisters. This takes place at the Military Museum. It was formerly the headquarters of PIDE in Porto. The Freedom Parade begins soon after. It ends on Avenida dos Aliados.
Concerts fill the afternoon. Musicians perform songs made famous by José Afonso and others. The Comissão para as Comemorações Populares do 25 de Abril also participates. The Cara de Espelho project performs. It features members of Deolinda and Ornatos Violeta.
Homenagem 25 de Abril reminds us that freedom is precious. It must be protected. The spirit of the Carnation Revolution lives on in Porto. It inspires new generations to defend democracy and human rights. As we stand here let us honor those who fought for freedom. Let us commit to safeguarding it for future generations. The fight for freedom never truly ends. It requires constant vigilance and unwavering dedication.