EU Spanish Shock: Muslim Festivals Banned from Public Places!

[CharlieH]

 

 

In a bold move, Jumilla bans Muslim festivals in public spaces!

 

Jumilla, a small town in Spain's Murcia region, has erupted in controversy after banning Muslim festivals from public venues such as civic centres and gyms. This groundbreaking decision, introduced by the conservative People’s Party (PP), was passed with the abstention of the far-right Vox party while facing staunch opposition from local left-wing parties.

 

The newly implemented rule stipulates that municipal sports facilities are reserved for activities that align with the town's identity unless they are officially organised by the authorities. Vox celebrated the decision online, asserting, “Thanks to Vox, the first measure to ban Islamic festivals in Spain’s public spaces has been passed. Spain is and will remain the land of Christian people.”

 

Critics have been quick to denounce the measure as discriminatory. Mounir Benjelloun Andaloussi Azhari, president of the Spanish Federation of Islamic Organisations, slammed the ruling as “Islamophobic and discriminatory,” highlighting that no other religion is being similarly targeted. He voiced deep concern about the increasing wave of racist rhetoric and incidents, stating, “For the first time in 30 years, I feel afraid in Spain.”

 

Jumilla, which boasts a population of around 27,000, includes a minority of approximately 7.5% from predominantly Muslim countries. The controversial decision could face legal challenges as it potentially violates article 16 of the Spanish constitution, which guarantees freedom of ideology, religion, and worship. Francisco Lucas, the prominent socialist leader in Murcia, criticised the ruling on social media, accusing the PP of breaching the constitution and endangering social cohesion for the sake of political power.

 

Historical context adds complexity to the issue. Once part of the Roman Empire, Jumilla came under Arab control in the eighth century and remained an Arab town for several centuries. It wasn't until the mid-13th century that Christian troops led by Alfonso X of Castile invaded and took control, ending Arab rule. However, the town's rich history is now at the heart of the debate.

 

Former socialist mayor Juana Guardiola raised questions about what the authorities mean by "identity," pointing to the area's diverse cultural history. “What about the centuries of Muslim legacy here?” she asked, prompting discussions about selective interpretations of history.

 

The decision has ignited a fierce national debate and legal scrutiny, with many questioning how this will impact Spain’s multicultural fabric. The ban has struck a chord, causing ripples beyond Jumilla, as both supporters and critics closely monitor the unfolding situation. The decision could potentially set a precedent for other regions, making it a pivotal moment in Spain’s ongoing conversation about identity, religion, and inclusivity.

 

As the debate continues, Jumilla remains in the spotlight, with the legal and social outcomes yet to be determined. The controversial ruling has made this small town the focal point of a larger discussion on religious freedom and cultural identity in Spain.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Guardian 2025-07-05

 

 

[Packer]

Ban Islam. 

[save the frogs]

11 hours ago, Packer said:

Ban Islam. 

 

Abolish all religions. It's discriminatory to ban just one.