Valencia saw another massive demonstration today, marking the third protest demanding the resignation of Carlos Mazón, president of the Generalitat Valenciana, due to his handling of the recent DANA (Acute Atmospheric Dynamic Events) disaster. Hundreds of protesters filled the streets, expressing their anger two months after the catastrophic floods claimed 223 lives and left much of the region reeling from the aftermath.
The march began at 6 PM from Plaza San Agustín, proceeding through the well-trafficked streets of Valencia, including Xàtiva and Colón, before culminating at Plaza América. Participants, fueled by frustration and grief, chanted slogans such as "Mazón dimisión" (Mazón resign) and carried poignant messages, including pictures of flood victims and banners depicting Mazón with bloodied hands.
This gathering was organized by over 200 civic and social entities, amplifying the call for accountability from Mazón and his administration. Community leaders have strongly criticized the government for its delayed responses and failure to provide adequate relief to the victims and affected areas.
Among the demonstrators was Saray, the daughter of Francisco Ruiz, who remains missing since the floods swept through Montserrat. "No one from the Generalitat has contacted us," Saray lamented, emphasizing the disconnect between the administration and grieving families. "Only journalists and the Civil Guard have reached out. We deserve answers and support, not abandonment." Her sentiments echoed the frustrations voiced by many who have lost loved ones and homes.
Aitana, who lost her grandfather, voiced her disgust at the government's lack of accountability, stating, "My grandfather did not die; he was killed. The authorities must take responsibility for what has happened, and they seem to care about us not at all." Her statement reflects the deep sense of loss and the urgent demands for acknowledgment from officials.
The protest also showcased the solidarity among agricultural workers, with seven tractors leading the march. This homage recognizes farmers who tirelessly worked to clear debris and restore order after the disaster, stepping up when local government agencies failed to provide immediate support. Alexandra Usó, one of the spokespersons for the groups organizing the protests, emphasized the farmers' efforts: "They were here from day one, removing mud from the streets going above and beyond what was expected." Usó's words embody the spirit of solidarity felt by many participants.
During the march, many were seen embracing placards featuring messages of defiance and remembrance like "Heu matat al meu iaio" (You killed my grandfather) and "Mazón, à Picassent" (Mazón, to Picassent, referring to a prison). Members of the community have criticized the lack of timely warnings leading up to the flooding, which many believe could have saved lives.
"There was no effective communication of the risks we faced," Usó pointedly remarked, underlining the failure of governmental systems during the chaos. She compared the government's reaction to the tragic losses and highlighted: "If we had been warned earlier, perhaps we wouldn’t be mourning over 200 dead today."
The protest was not only for accountability but also served as a space for mourning. Several participants expressed the acute absence of loved ones at this year's holiday gatherings, pointing to the "226 empty seats" left by those who perished. Beatriz Cardona, another spokesperson, poignantly stated, "This holiday season is marked by grief, with families forever changed by loss. We will not forget those we lost, nor will we allow the government to forget our pain."
With each protest march, the organizers have seen significant numbers—the first, held on November 9, attracted about 130,000 people, and another on November 30 brought around 100,000. The numbers demonstrate not only growing frustration but also the collective yearning for justice and recognition.
A vocal crowd during the demonstration echoed sentiments of disbelief over the government's lack of action, chanting for more resources, including "more firefighters and less bullfighters," reflecting on the allocation of public funding during crises.
Throughout the march, the atmosphere remained fervent yet peaceful, with the community united under the shared goal of demanding accountability and proper aid for those affected. Participants hope these protests will keep pressure on governmental authorities to respond appropriately moving forward, reflecting on the painful lessons learned from this tragedy.
The collective impact of these marches points to the urgent need for systemic changes, ensuring not only effective disaster response but also proactive measures to protect the citizens of Valencia from future catastrophes. Activists and families of victims plan to continue demonstrating each month until their calls for justice are met, aiming to hold the administration accountable for their actions—or lack thereof—during the flooding crisis.