Individual residents had called for a meeting at the San Francisco civic center to address issues such as noise, litter, and drug consumption in the area. The aim was to find solutions and improve community living.
Shortly after the initiative was circulated on social media, anti-system groups plastered the neighborhood and the Casco Viejo with posters. These posters called for a counter-protest at the same time and location as the assembly, accusing residents of racism and of encouraging far-right parties.
This situation prompted the Ertzaintza (Basque Police) and Municipal Police to establish a special security detail for Monday afternoon. However, residents decided to cancel their meeting to ensure the safety of attendees, particularly the elderly, some of whom had already expressed their fear to the organizers about attending.
“"It is appalling that unions and associations claiming to defend the population intimidate and boycott men and women who, without being influenced by political affiliations or public subsidies, organize initiatives to improve their neighborhood."
The organizers have criticized these anti-system groups for their lack of empathy regarding the neighborhood's real problems. They accuse residents of racism for sharing videos documenting knife fights, street litter, drug trafficking, and transphobic behavior. Yet, none of these groups have taken action to denounce these violent incidents.
Residents have announced their intention to organize a new gathering and will continue to highlight the situation of insecurity and institutional neglect that, they claim, affects the San Francisco neighborhood.
