The municipality of Archidona has inaugurated a bench with the slogan 'Make respect a habit' to commemorate LGTBI Pride Day. The Councillor for Equality, María Gracia Nuevo, led the event.
The Town Hall of Archidona, in the Antequera region, has installed a brightly designed bench in a central square as a symbol of sexual and gender diversity. The initiative is part of the institutional events for International LGTBI Pride Day, which this year included a morning hiking route and the reading of a manifesto.
The Councillor for Equality and Diversity, María Gracia Nuevo, explained that urban furniture is not just decoration, but a “visible symbol of respect, diversity, and inclusion.” During her speech, she emphasised that the bench represents the commitment of a society where “everyone can feel safe, valued, and free to be who they are,” regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The event began at 08:30 with a route organised by a local hiking group, culminating at the location of the bench. Participants carried rainbow flags and banners with advocacy slogans.
Subsequently, a manifesto was read that evoked the Stonewall riots of 1969, considered the starting point of the modern movement for LGTBI rights. The text noted that, although society has progressed towards tolerance, attitudes of LGTBIfobia still persist in family, work, educational, and public spaces. The declaration emphasised the need for ongoing awareness and support from public administrations to eradicate these behaviours. It was also noted that in Andalusia, more than 130 entities and institutions have been established as spaces of peace and freedom for the community.
María Gracia Nuevo highlighted that the bench is part of other municipal actions, such as training municipal staff in diversity and organising workshops in educational centres. “Every step towards full equality is a shared victory,” said the councillor, who also thanked the collaboration of local LGTBI groups. The installation of the bench aims to serve as a daily reminder for residents and visitors that Archidona is an inclusive municipality. The event concluded with the release of biodegradable balloons in rainbow colours.
The celebration of Pride in Archidona is part of a growing tradition in the towns of the Antequera region. Last year, the Town Hall of Antequera city installed a similar bench in its historic centre, and in Mollina, talks on diversity were organised. The councillor announced that next year, activities are expected to expand with a cultural week dedicated to sexual diversity. The bench, made from recycled materials, has been placed in the Town Hall square, a frequently visited location, to maximise its visibility. Residents have received the initiative with curiosity and support, according to municipal sources.
For those wishing to learn more about Pride activities in the region, the Town Hall of Archidona has set up an information point at the Casa de la Cultura, where upcoming events and resources on diversity can be consulted. The Equality department also handles inquiries on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.
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