Thousands rallied in Gran Canaria on Saturday, 3 October, demanding the right to housing as the housing rights group Derecho al Techo concluded a six-day encampment in Plaza de La Feria. They expressed both exhaustion and determination, stating that their efforts had successfully brought housing issues to the forefront of public debate.
The group thanked everyone who participated in the protest and surrounding activities, including those who provided food, materials, and support. Though they have vacated the plaza, they stressed that their fight continues, particularly in light of recent restrictions that have left many families vulnerable to eviction.
Derecho al Techo plans to focus its efforts on supporting families facing imminent eviction and hopes to work on community outreach, organising local meetings, and building grassroots power. They also called for a general strike to highlight the housing emergency and work-related grievances.
Additionally, they urged the Canary Islands government to prioritise the needs of vulnerable families in eviction cases, coordinating with local authorities to provide necessary support. They called on local councils to establish municipal offices offering advice and assistance for tenants facing rental issues, ensuring no one has to tackle these challenges alone.
The group demands the government classify areas with high rental market stress and implement measures to protect working families from rising housing costs. Emphasising their commitment, they declared they would persist in fighting against evictions, organising assemblies, and strengthening community ties.
The next open assembly by Derecho al Techo is scheduled for 8 October, focusing on organising a new wave of protests and preparing for the potential general strike, with details to be announced soon.
