The Citizens’ Assembly for the Right to Housing in Lanzarote is hosting a day of cultural, artisanal, and social activities today, 11 October, at the José Ramírez Cerdá Park in Arrecife. The event, open to the public, will run from morning until evening, aiming to foster community engagement while advocating for solutions to the housing crisis.
This gathering marks one week since the assembly’s first protests, which have included six open meetings where local residents, businesses, and individuals from various social and cultural backgrounds have shared their concerns.
Central to discussions is the rising cost of rents and the shortage of affordable housing. One commitment made by the assembly is to support families facing eviction, particularly those with children, elderly members, or vulnerable individuals. On the morning of 9 October, assembly members accompanied a family at risk of losing their home during this difficult time.
The assistance was peaceful and, following the housing decree, the situation was paused. The assembly stresses the importance of providing support and listening to ensure that no one faces the threat of homelessness alone.
Describing itself as citizen-led, non-partisan, and horizontal, the assembly welcomes anyone wishing to share experiences, voice concerns, or propose ideas. Decisions are made collectively and documented in public records, ensuring its independence through deliberation and individual participation.
Participants from varied backgrounds, including teachers, healthcare professionals, lawyers, shopkeepers, artists, young people, retirees, and families struggling with housing issues, have taken part in the assembly’s activities.
Local residents and businesses have contributed by providing coffee, food, restroom access, and other resources. The assembly expresses gratitude for this support, highlighting a performance by Alba Boek and a gesture of solidarity from Vera Fauna, who allowed participants to express their demands and display their banners during a concert in Arrecife.
The assembly has called for specific measures to ensure affordable rents, protect those facing eviction, and provide dignified housing alternatives for vulnerable groups. It also seeks institutional coordination, channels for dialogue, and respect for the rights to peaceful assembly, expression, and protest.
Sunday’s event aims to continue this work through community engagement and caring for the park. The assembly invites the residents of Arrecife and all of Lanzarote to join, learn about their demands, and participate in an open space for civic organisation advocating for the right to adequate housing.
