Canaries Unite to Combat Gender Violence: Island-Wide Demonstrations

Today marks a significant day of activism in the Canary Islands as residents come together to protest against the pervasive issue of gender-based violence. Events are taking place across the archipelago, with notable gatherings in Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and Fuerteventura. These demonstrations are spearheaded by a coalition of feminist groups dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for change.

Gran Canaria’s March for Change: A Community Effort

In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the Gran Canaria Feminist Network has organized a powerful march that is set to commence at 7:00 PM from the historic Plaza de Santa Ana, located in the vibrant district of Vegueta. Participants will march through the bustling city center, ultimately gathering at San Telmo Park. The event’s slogan, “Against Gender Violence, Do Your Part!”, highlights the collective responsibility of the community in addressing and combating gender violence. This rally not only serves as a platform for protest but also as an opportunity for community members to come together, share their stories, and foster solidarity.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s Resounding Call to Action

Meanwhile, in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, another significant protest is underway, led by the Forum Against Gender Violence. This demonstration will kick off from Plaza Weyler, where participants will gather to voice their concerns and demand action. The rally’s poignant slogan, “For Those Who Were, For Those Who Are, For Those Who Will Come. We Will Not Be Silenced. They Will Not Silence Us,” serves not only to honor the victims of gender violence but also to emphasize the ongoing struggle against such injustices. This powerful message resonates deeply within the community, reinforcing the importance of speaking out and advocating for those who cannot.

Fuerteventura’s Unified Stand: A Call for Solidarity

Fuerteventura is also joining the fight against gender violence with a march organized by the Feminist Network in Puerto del Rosario. Scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM, one hour earlier than the other protests, this event will wind through the capital’s streets, showcasing a unified stand against gender-based violence across the islands. The early start time reflects the urgency and importance of the cause, as participants aim to maximize visibility and impact as they march together in solidarity.

Common Goals: Advocating for Change Across the Islands

All three demonstrations share a common objective: to draw attention to the alarming rates of violence faced by women in the Canary Islands and to advocate for comprehensive policies and resources necessary to prevent and address these issues. The collective efforts of these protests highlight the urgent need for societal change, emphasizing that the fight against gender violence is not just a women’s issue but a societal one that requires the involvement of everyone.

As the marches unfold across the islands, participants are encouraged to engage in discussions about the systemic issues that contribute to gender violence. Activists are emphasizing the importance of education, community support, and legislative action as vital components in the fight against this pervasive issue. The demonstrations serve as a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals.

In addition to raising awareness, the protests are also calling for increased funding for support services for victims of gender violence, including shelters, counseling, and legal assistance. Activists argue that without adequate resources, victims may feel trapped and unable to escape their situations, perpetuating the cycle of violence. The demand for policy changes is a central theme of the protests, as participants seek to hold local and national governments accountable for their roles in addressing gender violence.

As the sun sets over the Canary Islands, the collective voices of the protesters will echo through the streets, sending a clear message that gender violence will not be tolerated. The solidarity displayed today is a powerful testament to the strength of the community and its commitment to creating a safer, more equitable society for all.

Key points

• Protests against gender violence are taking place in Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and Fuerteventura.
• The Gran Canaria Feminist Network is leading a march in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s protest is organized by the Forum Against Gender Violence.
• Fuerteventura’s march is set to begin at 6:00 PM in Puerto del Rosario.
• All protests aim to raise awareness about violence against women and demand effective policies.