The event, held at La CIBA, served as a meeting point for key figures in the institution's history. Attendees included Manuela de Madre, the mayor who promoted its creation in 2000; Fernando Oteros, the first ombudsman; and the current mayor, Mireia González. Representatives from the Forum of Local Ombudsmen and the deputy to the Síndica de Greuges de Catalunya (Catalan Ombudsman) were also present.
During the commemoration, a video was screened featuring testimonies from citizens and civil society in Santa Coloma de Gramenet regarding the role of defending rights through proximity. The video included explicit recognition of the institution by the three mayors who have worked with it: Manuela de Madre, Núria Parlon, and Mireia González.
“"I thank the citizens, institutions, and entities for the trust, collaboration, and complicity in carrying out our work, as well as the respect and support shown by the three mayors and the City Council."
The current ombudsman, Pepa González, emphasized the importance of citizen and institutional trust and collaboration. She highlighted that, despite its role in supervising and controlling municipal actions, the City Council has always shown respect and support, facilitating the improvement of attention and service to the public.
Mayor Mireia González was responsible for closing the event, emphasizing the work of the Citizen Ombudsman as an element reinforcing proximity democracy and a driver for continuous improvement in local administration.
