The Spirit of Villalar
In the heart of Castilian history, on April 23, 1521, a battle was fought that marked the destiny of Spain. In Villalar de los Comuneros, the ideals of freedom and justice collided with the forces of absolutism, leaving a legacy that still resonates today.
Although the fortunes of arms did not favor the commoners, their principles endured, becoming precursors of the liberal revolutions that would transform Europe. In recognition of their struggle, April 23 is celebrated as Castile and León Day, honoring the indomitable spirit of those who dared to challenge tyranny.
The Attack on Communal Traditions
Unfortunately, those who govern the Junta de Castilla y León have undertaken a systematic attack against communal traditions, trying to strip the festival of its inclusive character and its financing.
This attitude challenges the Statute of Autonomy of Castilla y León, which recognizes the importance of Villalar as a symbol of regional identity. Instead of addressing community issues, the Board has been intent on creating divisions and undermining cultural heritage.
Villalar, a Symbol of Resistance
For the ruling parties, the communal tradition is an inconvenience, as it was for José María Aznar, who tried unsuccessfully to eliminate the festival in 1988. History is littered with attempts to silence the voice of the people, such as the violent dissolution of a rally in 1976.
But Castilla y León has faced even greater adversity and will overcome the obstacles imposed by those who do not believe in its potential. The word ‘revolution’ was born in the Spanish language, a source of pride that instills fear in those who govern it.
Villalar, a People’s Festival
Villalar has always belonged to the people, a place where the struggle and the communal spirit of freedom are vindicated. As Marx said, the revolution in Spain was a defense of medieval freedoms against modern absolutism.
Castellanos and Leonese united to defend their rights, and there is nothing to reproach this majority will. Those who govern look for excuses to dismantle the Villalar Foundation, which promotes the cultural roots that make them so uncomfortable.
Popular Mobilization
Despite attempts to silence it, Villalar’s party will continue to be a popular event. On April 23, people will gather at the monolith where the community captains were beheaded, remembering their sacrifice.
Villalar is a festival of rallies, concerts and demands, where tricolor flags and community banners fly as symbols of an alternative. It is a celebration of the playful and the demanding, where a more just and supportive community is advocated.
The Fight for Democratic Memory
Those who govern try to impose a false harmony, ignoring the coup d’état against the Republic and the dictatorship that followed. Thousands of people lie in unidentified ditches, a shame that must be repaired.
Social, political and union organizations demand truth, justice and reparation for the victims of Franco’s regime. The alternative manifesto that will be presented on April 23 will defend the values that the autonomous administration intends to eliminate.
International Solidarity
Our local struggle is intertwined with the global struggle. The genocide suffered by the Palestinian people is a reminder of the suffering that tyranny can inflict.
Palestine is carrying out a heroic fight for its freedom, resisting Israel’s genocidal policy. The Palestinian people have the right to defend themselves, live in peace and be recognized as a country.
The Villalar Prize of the Communards
In recognition of their struggle, the Villalar Prize of the Communards of the United Left of Castilla y León 2024 will be awarded to the Palestinian people. This symbolic gesture demonstrates our community’s solidarity with those who suffer injustice.
In Villalar 2024, we will honor the spirit of the community members and express our solidarity with the Palestinian people. Long live free Palestine, long live Villalar de los Comuneros, long live Castilla y León.
