The Plaza de la Provincia in Vitoria-Gasteiz hosted the traditional Republican Gathering on April 14th, bringing together dozens of people for music, poetry, and political advocacy. This event, organized by the Ateneo Republicano de Araba ERAIKI and other associations, combined a festive atmosphere with a strong sense of protest.
The stage featured performances by the Republican Band, the Republican Choir, and various guest artists. Between songs and recitals, the audience attentively followed the reading of the manifesto, a central moment of the event. In it, the organizing associations delivered a clear message.
Enough of monarchy, we need a Republic!
Furthermore, values such as peace, coexistence, and social justice were championed, emphasizing the importance of mutual care and solidarity in current times of war. The text also criticized the role of the monarchy, deeming it “systematic corruption, and an anti-democratic burden to be abolished.” The need to advance towards a republican model based on accountability and equality was defended.
The gathering also had an intimate tone. Attendees enjoyed pintxo-pote (tapas and drinks) and the lively atmosphere in the square, during an afternoon that mixed protest and community.
April 14th is a historic date commemorating the proclamation of the Second Republic in 1931, a period that brought significant social and political advancements in Spain. This era concluded in 1936 with the onset of the Civil War, following the coup d'état that led to the Francoist dictatorship. Since then, this date has become a symbol for those who advocate for the republican model, celebrated annually in various cities with events like the one in Vitoria-Gasteiz.
