50 Years Since Historic Manifestation for Cultural Heritage in Gran Canaria
On 15 July 1976, a pivotal manifestation took place in Gran Canaria, led by two young men from Gáldar, Javier Quesada and Antonio Rodríguez. They sought permission from the Civil Government in Las Palmas to protect the archaeological site of La Guancha, crucial for understanding the island’s pre-Hispanic roots. This demonstration not only defended cultural identity but also advocated for the right to protest for justice.
At just 20 years old, Quesada recalls the atmosphere of political change following the death of dictator Francisco Franco on 20 November 1975. “We were aware of the emerging world during the Transition, and people were eager for social change and freedoms,” he said.
Describing the spirit of the time, Quesada noted that social interactions happened at a local bank where ideas for the protest took shape. “We wanted to raise awareness not just about our heritage but also to encourage participation in what was coming.”
This was one of the first authorised protests in a post-Franco Canary Islands. The previous protest, approved later, focused on demanding amnesty for political prisoners. There were few protests at the time, and permission was required from the Governor, Francisco Laína García. “He received us kindly, despite our apprehension about meeting a figure from the old regime,” Quesada noted.
The 1976 event saw support from notable cultural figures including archaeologist Celso Martín de Guzmán and artist Jane Millares. Demonstrators held banners proclaiming “Gáldar for culture and Guanche history” and “Down with approved destruction.”
Quesada believes the event set a precedent for valuing and protecting pre-Hispanic heritage in the Canaries, contributing to a stronger community fabric for future struggles.
In homage to this landmark event, a march retracing the original route has been organised to commemorate the anniversary. Quesada warned of the importance of safeguarding the democratic advances achieved over the past five decades, emphasising community participation in defending rights related to feminism, housing, public health, and education.
“We must each take a step to protect our achievements or risk losing everything,” he cautioned, stressing the necessity for collective action in these challenging times.
