Antifascist Book Club Leader Guides

Guide Index

• 1st Meeting: Introducing What is Fascism? and John Lewis' Final Request

  • In this introductory session, you'll define the scope of the book club and explore foundational concepts of fascism, drawing from Task Force Butler’s guide and John Lewis's call to action for defending democracy. Learn how to identify fascist tactics and mobilize informed activism against authoritarianism.

• 2nd Meeting: Discussing On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder

  • This session delves into Snyder's 20 practical lessons for resisting authoritarianism, with a focus on recognizing and countering propaganda, defending institutions, and mobilizing collective action. Discover actionable steps for preventing democratic backsliding and confronting authoritarian tactics effectively.

• 3rd Meeting: Discussing Strongmen (Introduction & Part 1)

  • Analyze how authoritarian leaders rise to power through crises, propaganda, and the erosion of democratic norms. Learn about the socio-political conditions that enable strongmen and how to counteract these threats through grassroots organizing and antifascist action.

• 4th Meeting: Discussing Strongmen (Part 2)

  • This session explores how authoritarian leaders consolidate power using propaganda, nationalism, corruption, and violence. Understand how these tactics dismantle democratic institutions and how informed, organized resistance can combat them.

• 5th Meeting: Discussing Strongmen (Part 3)

  • Focus on the vulnerabilities of authoritarian regimes and the role of resistance movements in their downfall. Learn from historical examples of successful antifascist organizing and the importance of solidarity and international cooperation.

• 6th Meeting: Discussing Strongmen (Part 4)

  • Examine how authoritarian leaders lose power and the lessons for contemporary antifascist activism. Explore the roles of international pressure, civil resistance, and institutional checks in dismantling authoritarian regimes.

How to Use These Guides

• Preparation: Read the assigned chapters before each meeting.

• Facilitation: Use the discussion prompts to encourage critical thinking and active participation.

• Action Steps: Each guide includes ideas for translating discussion into real-world activism.

Whether you're leading your first meeting or continuing a series, these guides will help you build informed, empowered communities ready to stand up against authoritarianism.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Antifascist Book Club’s mission?

Our mission is to educate, organize, and empower communities to resist authoritarianism through informed discussions and collective action.

2. How can I start my own Antifascist Book Club?

Check out our comprehensive guide to starting an Antifascist Book Club for step-by-step instructions.

3. What books should we read first to understand authoritarianism?

We recommend that you read the first six of our the recommendations from our curated Reading List in order, then work with your Antifascist Book Club to tackle the rest in whatever order feels right to you.

For more resources, visit the main Antifascist Book Club Home Page.