In San Bartolomé, a town in Lanzarote, over 80 nationalities coexist, illustrating that a society flourishes when it integrates people, provides opportunities, and extends a helping hand to newcomers. Mayor Isidro Pérez highlights that while no one chooses where they are born, communities have the power to support one another.
Pérez reflects on the randomness of birth, noting that factors like political, social, or economic conditions can significantly influence a person’s life chances. Growing up in peace or facing war, having access to basic needs or struggling with poverty, and enjoying freedoms or facing persecution are often dictated by geography.
Canary Islands have a long history of migration, as generations have sought better opportunities beyond their homeland. This ongoing human mobility is a constant throughout history, driven by the universal desire for dignified living conditions.
The mayor expresses concern that terms like “invasion” or “siege” have crept into public discourse. He stresses that language matters; framing migrants as “invaders” simplifies complex realities and encourages division instead of understanding.
Social sciences investigate how places are reshaped by the people who inhabit them. Doreen Massey challenged the notion of territory as fixed, urging a view of locations shaped by relationships and diverse narratives. Spanish researcher Ricard Zapata-Barrero studies how societies incorporate migration into their identities.
San Bartolomé exemplifies respectful coexistence, housing around 20,000 residents embracing over 80 nationalities. The community retains its identity while welcoming various cultures and viewpoints.
Contemporary social psychology offers further insights, with research indicating that friendships with immigrants correlate with more positive perceptions of migration. The findings underline the significance of inclusive policies in fostering meaningful relationships.
Ultimately, as Pérez points out, knowing one another matters. It’s easier to fear a faceless group than to connect with individuals we encounter daily.
A progressive society should embrace its identity while welcoming others, combatting inequality, and ensuring equal rights for all. While some remain fortunate enough to stay, many must leave their homes for a better future. In San Bartolomé, the choice is clear: extending a hand in support, rather than building barriers.
