Tuesday 2 April 2013

Declaration of the Grand Council of Fascism, February 13, 1923

Fascism and Freemasonry

The meeting of the Grand Council of Fascism was attended by the Duce, the Hon. Finzi, Hon. Giuriati, Hon. Acerbo, Italo Balbo, the Hon. De Stefani, Torre, Bianchi, Calza Bini, Rocca, Giunta, Farinacci, Ricci, Starace, Teruzzi, and Sansanelli. The subject of Fascism and Freemasonry was extensively covered. During the discussion various proposals were presented. Finally, after more than three hours of discussion, the following agenda was unanimously approved, minus four abstentions:
"In consideration of the fact that recent political events and the attitude and certain resolutions of Freemasonry have given cause for the belief that Freemasons pursue a program and employ methods contrary to those which inspire the whole activity of Fascism, the Grand Council of Fascism calls upon those Fascists who are Freemasons to choose between membership in the National Fascist Party and Freemasonry. Because for Fascists there is only one discipline, the discipline of Fascism; only one hierarchy, the hierarchy of Fascism; and only one allegiance, the absolute, devout and daily allegiance to the Duce and to the leaders of Fascism."
At the end of the session, the Duce invited those present to stand, and read the following agenda approved by acclamation:
"The Grand Council of Fascism salutes all our Fiumian and Dalmatian brothers who, sacrificing themselves, have given their obedience to the painful but necessary requirements of the Fascist government regarding the application of the Treaty of Rapallo. Once again, their spirit of magnificent discipline has served our Fatherland well, and has assured that the active solidarity of the Fascist Government will assist them now and forever."