Gabriel Rodríguez book launch halted by Chilean cultural authority

The scheduled presentation of journalist Gabriel Rodríguez's new book, “Auschwitz, Colonia Dignidad y más: Historias de héroes y canallas,” was cancelled at the last minute. The event was to take place at the Museum O’Higginiano in Talca, Chile, with support from the Sociedad de Escritores, the Colegio de Periodistas and the museum itself.

Organizers say the cancellation came from the regional Seremi of Cultures, Arts and Heritage of Maule, Pablo Amaro, after the author received a notice late on Friday. Rodríguez and supporters staged a spontaneous press conference at the museum, denouncing the decision as censorship. The Colegio de Periodistas' national president, Rocío Alorda, called the suspension “unacceptable.” The book compiles about 60 chronicles and opinion pieces covering topics from World War II to the Colonia Dignidad tragedy, highlighting the dangers of racist and supremacist ideologies.