The full council of Antequera unanimously approved an institutional declaration condemning the gender-based murder of María, which occurred last Monday. The text, read by the spokespersons of the three municipal groups, expresses the city's sorrow and calls for greater efforts against this scourge.
The Municipal Corporation of Antequera demonstrated its unity against gender violence on Wednesday by unanimously approving an institutional declaration condemning the gender-based murder of María, which took place last Monday in the city. The text was read during an extraordinary council meeting by the spokespersons of the three municipal groups —Pilar Ruiz (IU), José Luis Ruiz Espejo (PSOE), and Ana Cebrián (PP)— alongside the mayor, Manuel Barón, in an event aimed at conveying the institution's support to the victim's family.
The declaration expresses the city's "deepest sorrow" for the crime and emphasizes that gender-based violence represents one of the greatest violations of human rights. The council describes each murder of a woman as "a collective failure" and calls for renewed efforts to eradicate this scourge definitively.
The council extends its condolences to María's family, especially to her parents and the children she leaves orphaned, and shows the entire city's support during this painful time. At the same time, it reaffirms the institution's commitment to equality between women and men and to fighting against any form of violence towards women.
The text also acknowledges the work of the Security Forces, the Judicial Authority, health services, social services, and the Municipal Women's Information Centre for their protection and support of victims. It insists on the need to strengthen policies for prevention, awareness, and comprehensive care, as well as to promote an education based on equality and respect.
The declaration concludes with a call to citizens to maintain an active attitude of rejection against any manifestation of gender-based violence. "I feel a deep sadness," declared Mayor Manuel Barón to the media after the meeting, before heading to Plaza de San Sebastián, where a large gathering of protest took place.
The Antequera City Council has activated municipal resources for victim support and reminds that the Municipal Women's Information Centre offers free psychological and legal support to all women in need. Citizens can contact this service via phone at 952 70 82 00 or in person at their facilities.
Gender violence remains a social emergency in Spain. According to the latest official data, there have been more than a dozen gender-based murders in the country this year. Authorities stress the importance of reporting any signs of abuse and remind that the phone number 016 provides free and confidential assistance 24 hours a day.
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