Bilbao Unveils Urban Bench with Romani Flag in Otxarkoaga

The Romani community in Bilbao asserts its right to exist freely in public spaces on International Romani Day.

A newly inaugurated urban bench in Bilbao's Otxarkoaga neighborhood, painted with the colors of the Romani flag.
IA

A newly inaugurated urban bench in Bilbao's Otxarkoaga neighborhood, painted with the colors of the Romani flag.

The Romani community in Bilbao has highlighted the right to exist freely in public spaces by inaugurating an urban bench adorned with the Romani flag in the Otxarkoaga neighborhood, coinciding with International Romani Day.

This initiative, which represents the first structure of its kind to be installed in Euskal Herria, symbolizes a significant claim for the community. The timing of the inauguration on International Romani Day further emphasizes the event's importance and meaning.
Located in Bilbao's Otxarkoaga neighborhood, the bench proudly displays the vibrant colors of the Romani flag, aiming to increase the visibility of this community's presence and rights. As stated by Markel Fernández, the community underscores "the pride of being a woman, Romani, and Basque," conveying a clear message in favor of diversity and inclusion.