A spontaneous collective movement started in Spain on the 15th May 2011 and soon spread to many cities both in Spain and abroad. Just like them, a number of Spanish residents in Manchester have got together because we want a new participative democracy which gives priority to the people, and not to the economic and political powers. We are worried about the high levels of corruption, unemployment rate, destruction of the welfare state, and lack of control on banks and financial institutions, among other current problems which affect not only Spain but also other countries like the UK.
That is why our main goal is to help spread this peaceful citizen revolt to other countries in Europe. Its uniqueness lies in the diversity of the people who have for the first time overcome their differences and got together in spontaneous assemblies in the plazas (squares) in order to propose solutions to the problems that affect us at a global level, in an unprecedented exercise of tolerance and respect.
In the UK, the response is taking place not only in Manchester but also in other cities like Brighton, Liverpool, Edinburgh -- and especially in London with long-term gatherings before the Spanish Embassy and in Trafalgar Square. Here in Manchester our first demonstration took off on Friday 20th May in front of the Spanish consulate in Spring Gardens and finished in Picadilly Gardens at the Queen Victoria statue. Since then we have been holding regular rallies and assemblies, discussing the way forward and creating connections with local groups.
Days after the indignados movement started in Spain in May 2011, some Manchester residents got together too. - - We want a new participative democracy which gives priority to the people, not to the current economic and political powers.
