As part of Catalonia’s national Diada celebrations, independence campaigners from Catalonia, Wales, and several other nations came together in Barcelona on Wednesday 10 September to mark the occasion and build international solidarity.
Representing Wales were Geraint Thomas and YesCymru chair, Phyl Griffiths. They attended as part of the International Commission of European Citizens (ICEC) – a body campaigning for the right of peoples across Europe to self-determination and independence.
Catalonia’s Diada celebrations: Welsh independence advocates join in international solidarity
The Welsh delegation gave interviews to Catalunya Ràdio and RAB Ràdio:
Later they met with the president of the Assemblea Nacional Catalana (ANC) before leading a march in Manresa, delivering speeches, and presenting a joint Welsh–Catalan banner to the ANC:
Geraint Thomas said:
It was an honour to be invited to take part in such an important Catalan occasion, and with that honour comes responsibility. In our speeches – delivered in Welsh with Catalan translation – we were able to take a significant step forward in strengthening our relationship with the Catalan independence movement and with the people of Catalunya more widely.
Phyl Griffiths said:
Building bridges between Wales and Catalunya is vital to advancing our campaigns for independence. While the challenges we face may differ, our shared goal remains the same. Developing our campaign strategies together is essential, and forging these relationships is the first step on the journey for both our nations.
Flags represent ‘not conquest, but community’
Anna Arqué i Solsona, Catalonia’s representative on ICEC – who recently spoke at the March for Independence in Barry – added:
Having the ICEC international representatives from Wales, Scotland and Flanders meant a powerful injection of energy for a Catalan crowd with great resilience but a growing distrust in political parties. Their speeches allowed people to reconnect with the joy and hope of the independence cause. Many languages, one voice. Many nations, one cause.
The speeches the Welsh delegation delivered in Manresa echoed themes of unity, hope, and solidarity. Thomas declared that the flags of Wales and Catalonia represent:
not conquest, but community – nations standing shoulder to shoulder for independence.
Meanwhile, Griffiths described Wales and Catalonia as “two nations, one dream”. He urged both countries to continue sharing ideas and supporting one another in the struggle for democracy, dignity, and peace.
Images supplied.
