The Zaldibia City Council has strongly condemned the sexual assaults that occurred during the town's festivals, as well as other acts of violence and vandalism registered in the locality. The council wishes to convey its solidarity and full support to the women who have suffered sexual assaults, and reiterates its commitment to defending women's freedom, safety, and dignity.
The events that have occurred should not be understood as isolated incidents. The council has pointed out that sexual assaults against women, acts of violence in public spaces, and vandalism demonstrate that attitudes of violence and dominance are still present in our society. It has urged to question the underlying power relations and behaviors that resolve conflicts through force.
A source of concern is also the physical response to the aggressors following the sexual assaults. The council reminds that responding to sexual assaults does not justify the use of other violence, and suffering a physical assault does not erase the prior aggression. It is emphasized that the responsibility for each incident persists and violence cannot be considered a legitimate response to other violence.
In this context, the council wishes to highlight the work of the feminist group Aske Zaldibiako against gender-based violence and its contribution to promoting collective reflection in the municipality. It encourages all citizens to participate in the call on October 22nd, at 6:30 PM, in the Karrenea hall.
The Zaldibia City Council reiterates its commitment to preventing violence against women, offering support to those who have suffered sexual assaults, and promoting peaceful coexistence among citizens, building relationships based on equality, respect, and mutual care.
