Dozens of boats protest fascist ship trying to block refugee rescues

*** Catania port flooded with citizens supporting humane and fair treatment of refugees and against racist vessel that aims to disrupt humanitarian sea rescue missions ***

Photos available here: https://flic.kr/s/aHsm1vHdCv

Video available here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0BwQQtc0OfNd2anQwWTBGQ0FxT1E

CATANIA, Italy.— Citizens, unions, migrant workers, faith groups, and activists from Catania took to the waters to stand up against the extreme anti-Muslim agenda of the so-called “Defend Europe” C-Star vessel mission and demand the closing of the port by the local authorities and from cities all around Europe.

Dozens of boats demonstrated at the port of Catania and displayed a 16 meter banner that says: “Stop the attack on refugees.” The action was followed by a minute of silence to warn how "Defend Europe" and the new EU migration policies can lead to the deaths of a large number of refugees.

Luca Nicotra, Senior Campaigner at Avaaz, said:

“Today we’re navigating a wave of European values in action. Citizens of Catania are showing they’re ready to resist the racists at sea. Now the Italian and other European governments should step up their efforts to find a proper and humane solution to this ongoing, cruel crisis on our shores.”

Today’s action ended with a collective shout-down against the racist vessel that will be remembered among local neighbors as the Call of Catania (“L’urlo di Catania”).

The right-wing extremist group said they’re planning to land in the coming days at Catania's harbor, then go on to prevent NGO ships from assisting migrants in danger. After being detained under human trafficking charges and for the use of false documents, the C-Star left the port of Cyprus where it was docked and according to the organizers is on its way to Catania, although travels plans were not confirmed by authorities.

Avaaz is calling on the Italian and all EU governments to close their ports to the C-Star or any other vessel missions that could put the lives of refugees and sea rescue workers at risk. The situation where NGOs must act to save lives in lieu of government action, and then be subjected to public smear campaigns, must come to an end. Sustainable solutions to save lives must be found.

For pictures, video b-roll (both free to use), more information on upcoming events or interview requests, please contact media@avaaz.org