This Wednesday evening, Girona expressed its support for the people of Ceuta with a demonstration focused on defending the autonomous city and rejecting the mass, irregular entry of immigrants. The event took place under a heavy deployment by the Mossos d’Esquadra (Catalan Police) to prevent any clashes between groups with opposing ideologies.
Attendees aimed to convey a message of solidarity to the citizens of Ceuta, who for weeks have been calling for measures to ensure security, strengthen border control, and restore normality. During the rally, slogans were heard in favor of Ceuta and against what protesters described as an "invasion".
Concurrently, far-left groups organized a counter-demonstration, self-proclaimed anti-fascist. However, their mobilization failed to overshadow the main support rally for Ceuta, despite attempts to portray it as a racist protest or one against human rights.
A security detail from the Mossos d’Esquadra was established in the Plaça del Vi and surrounding areas to keep the two groups separated. Although there were some exchanges of shouts before the rallies began, the police presence was crucial in preventing serious incidents.
The mobilization in Girona is part of a state-wide day of action that has resonated in numerous cities across Spain, where thousands of people demonstrated to support the residents of Ceuta and demand a firm response to the migration crisis.
The Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces promoted these gatherings coinciding with Ceuta Day. Parties such as the PP and Vox encouraged participation, while the Spanish government described them as partisan.
Organizers rejected these criticisms, arguing that the primary objective was to show solidarity with a city under unprecedented migratory pressure. They called for additional resources, more police officers, effective border control, and the return of individuals who entered illegally and do not qualify to stay.
In the city of Ceuta itself, the public response was particularly strong, with streets filled with Ceutan and Spanish flags. Residents expressed their weariness with the lack of solutions and called for the restoration of security and coexistence in their neighborhoods.
“"Ceuta is not for sale, Ceuta is defended"
“"Promises are not enough: responses are needed"
By joining this movement, Girona has added its voice to the national outcry, sending a clear message: the people of Ceuta are not alone. Faced with perceived inaction, citizens demand immediate solutions, border control, and respect for the rights of Ceuta's residents.
