Demonstrations - Catalonian Independence Referendum

"Without the right to vote we are not a democracy"

~

While walking back from exploring the shopping district of Madrid (look up Primark), Willa and I ran into a demonstration. This enlightened me to the fact that there was going to be a vote on whether the region of Catalonia (including Barcelona) would separate from Spain. Both sides have majorly criticized the way the Spanish government has handled the referendum vote. From what I have heard from news and Willa's Spanish friend, the government has reacted in violently and oppressively, even interfering and preventing people from voting. Thus, even if one was not originally in favor of separating, the acts from the government of Spain are not creating friends. Juanma, Willa's Spanish friend, said to us that "no matter what is happening and what you hear and see portrayed, we are a democracy. That's what we believe in". It was interesting talking to him, because Spain is a demo

cracy and the acts of the police on voters is not what the Spanish people support and stand for, no matter what the news outlets are showing. He was really frustrated with how the issue has been handled.

However, according to multiple news outlets, it looks as if the referendum for independence is predicting a 90% vote of support. Whether that result will be respected and accepted is another thing yet to come.

I think it was really amazing to be able to witness this event. We didn't stay for long, as the demonstration was just beginning and we didn't want to be caught up in something that could eventually turn violent (considering how things in the Catalan region were being handled). It reminded me of the demonstrations in Greece, which were frequent and abundant to say the least. While I wouldn't have gone out seeking this act of political activism, I do think it is a great look into what is politically happening in Spain and made me more aware and knowledgeable about what is happening in the new country I am calling home.