Massive Demonstration in Valencia Calls for Resignation Amid Flooding Tragedy
A massive demonstration organized by civic and leftist union organizations from the Valencian Community is underway, protesting the management of the recent flooding disaster, commonly referred to as "dana." The rally, which began shortly after 6 PM in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento in Valencia, carries the prominent slogan "Mazón resign!" aimed at the president of the Generalitat, Carlos Mazón.
The march commenced with a leading banner that prominently features the rally's slogan alongside an image of Mazón depicted upside down, donned in an emergency vest. This powerful imagery resonates deeply with the thousands directly affected by the catastrophic flooding that has claimed over 200 lives and displaced countless victims across 75 municipalities within the province.
Following the gathering at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, demonstrators are set to traverse the main streets of the city center, culminating at the Plaza Manises, the location of the Palau de la Generalitat, the headquarters of the Valencian Government. Here, attendees will read a manifesto detailing the demands put forth by the 65 organizing entities behind this protest, a coalition that has since expanded to include an additional 83 groups.
The Plaza del Ayuntamiento is overflowing with participants, many of whom have arrived in solidarity from various neighborhoods and municipalities, including some of the most severely affected areas. The atmosphere is charged, as attendees chant slogans such as "murderer" and "resignation". Protestors are holding signs with powerful messages, including "Where were you then?" and a now-iconic image of a hand submerged in mud, holding a mobile phone displaying the EsAlert warning system.
Organizers have requested that participants march in silence, without clothing stained from the mud, emphasizing the need to refrain from using violent or aggressive messages during the demonstration. Beatriz Cardona, a spokesperson for the protest, firmly declared that any attempts to politically exploit the tragic circumstances have no place at this rally.
Among the 65 original organizing entities are notable groups such as Acció Cultural del País Valencià, BEA, Ca Revolta, CNT Valencia, Comisión Ciudad Puerto, the coordinator for Democratic Memory, Escola Valenciana, Fampa Valencia, Intersindical Lambda, and numerous neighborhood associations. This coalition, bolstered by the support of an additional 83 organizations, illustrates a united front in calling for accountability and justice in light of the devastation brought by the flooding.
As the march unfolds, it stands as a powerful reminder of the community's resilience, the struggle for justice, and the demand for change from their leaders.
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