Gran Canaria Women’s March Highlights Resistance Against Patriarchy

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria witnessed a significant display of solidarity on Sunday, March 8, 2026, as women and allies marched through the city center to mark International Women’s Day. Organized by the Red Feminista de Gran Canaria, the march aimed to highlight concerns over perceived rollbacks in women’s rights and to demonstrate resistance against what organizers termed a “patriarchal offensive.”

March Route and Key Themes

The demonstration commenced at 12:00 hours from Parque San Telmo and concluded in Plaza de Santa Ana, where the annual manifesto was read. This year’s theme, “Feministas en resistencia contra la ofensiva patriarcal” (Feminists in resistance against the patriarchal offensive), underscored the collective’s anxieties about challenges to hard-won rights.

Concerns Over Rights and Equality

Nayra Marrero, a spokesperson for the Red Feminista de Gran Canaria, explained that the march aimed to draw attention to movements perceived as undermining democratic principles and fundamental rights, particularly in areas like education, healthcare, and the fight against gender-based violence. Organizers expressed concern over the resurgence of debates previously considered settled, such as those surrounding abortion access and traditional gender roles.

Addressing Violence Against Women

The fight against violence against women remained a central focus of the demonstration. Organizers highlighted the alarming statistics of femicide, noting that 12 women had been killed by gender-based violence in Spain so far this year, with two deaths and one minor fatality occurring in the Canary Islands specifically. La Provincia

Recognizing Activism and Promoting Equality

In addition to the march, the Red Feminista de Gran Canaria presented its annual awards. The Berta Cáceres collective award was given to Movimiento Regularización Ya, recognizing their advocacy for the rights of migrant people, particularly women. The Simone de Beauvoir award was presented to social worker Idaira Alemán Afonso, for her work promoting critical perspectives on pornography and comprehensive sex education through projects like Por-No Hablar. El Digital de Canarias

Call to Action

Marrero emphasized the importance of collective action and continued advocacy for real equality. She urged citizens to participate in the mobilization, stating, “It is important that we fight together, that we meet and continue to demand.” The Red Feminista de Gran Canaria stressed the need to avoid any setbacks and to continue advancing towards a more equitable society. Cadena SER