Next Saturday, March 2, 2024 marks an important milestone in the history of the struggle for freedom and justice in Spain: the 50th anniversary of the execution of Salvador Puig Antich by the Franco regime in La Model, Barcelona.
To honor his memory and reflect on his legacy, La Model will organize a series of events over six days, March 2-7, bringing together leading figures from civil society, law and culture.
Under the title “The current commitment. 1974-2024”, more than 30 personalities will participate in colloquiums, debates and performances in honor of Puig Antich. This event will be hosted by journalist and activist David Fernández and will take place in the center’s fourth gallery, where up to 300 people will be able to attend free of charge each day.
The program of activities is varied and exciting. The first day will include a telematic conversation on the death penalty and political engagement with the participation of former Uruguayan President José Mujica.
The following days will be dedicated to music, literature, theater, law and committed cinema, among other topics.
Among the participants are prominent names such as Anna Sallés, Carlos Vallejo, Luis Llach, Francisco Esbribano, Jordi Panyella, Núria Cadenes, Ferran Rañé, Gloria Rognoni, Jordi Coca, Sergi Belbel, Fernando León de Aranona, Manuel Huerga, Javier Arbós, Sonia Olivella and the sisters of Puig Antich.
In addition, illustrator Maria Corte will create a mural outside the prison as part of the commemorative activities.
La Model commemorates the legacy of Salvador Puig Antich
The events will not be limited to the fourth gallery of La Model, but will also include recreations in emblematic places of the prison, such as the cell where Puig Antich was held and the place where the garrotte that executed him was installed.
In addition, activities will be held in other venues in Barcelona, such as the Filmoteca de Cataluña and several universities.
The program of activities covers a wide range of topics, from discussions on the death penalty and political engagement to musical, literary and theatrical performances. The interventions of Lluís Llach, Anita Tijoux, Borja Penalba, Francesc Escribano, Núria Cadenes, Jordi Panyella, Ferran Rañé, Jordi Coca, Francisco Caminal, among others, stand out.
A symbol of history
The Model, built in 1904, has a rich and complex history that reflects Spain’s turbulent political times. During Franco’s dictatorship, it became a symbol of repression and resistance, housing thousands of political prisoners.
The commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the execution of Puig Antich is a reminder of the sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom and justice in Spain, and a call to continue fighting for a more just and equitable world.
