The other 9/11: Chile marks coup's 40th anniversary

[marmar]

(Al Jazeera America) Before the 9/11 terrorist attacks against the United States 12 years ago, that infamous date was synonymous with another assault against democracy: the military coup that toppled socialist president Salvador Allende in 1973 and installed a brutal 17-year dictatorship led by Augusto Pinochet.

Chile commemorates the most tragic day of its modern history Wednesday, culminating a week of remembrances dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the coup.

Chilean President Sebastián Piñera on Monday, during a visit to the Museum of Memory and Human Rights, criticized the coup but said it was a "predictable outcome" after "violations of the rule of law" under Allende's government.

The center-right leader said he wanted close the "wounds" opened by the Pinochet regime and reaffirmed his government's promise to create "a culture of tolerance and respect for human rights."

"We have to remember," Piñera told local media outlets, "because when we forget, sometimes we commit the same mistakes." ..................(more)

The complete piece is at: http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2013/9/11/the-other-9-11-chilemarkscoupas40thanniversary.html

[leveymg]

1. A bit of blaming the victims on Pinera's part.

[Coyotl]

2. Meanwhile, "police subdued protesters with tear gas and water cannons."

It seems this is not yet over.

[malaise]

3. K & R

Never forget