Juan Benito Valenciano Calls for Unambiguous Political Stance Against Terrorism
This Friday, Juan Benito Valenciano, president of the Foundation of Victims of Terrorism, addressed Congress with a fervent plea for political parties to adopt a clear, firm, and unequivocal narrative against terrorism. He emphasized the urgent need for a concerted effort from all three branches of government to cease tributes to terrorists, emphasizing the ongoing acts of support for ETA (Euskadi Ta Askatasuna) that remain a troubling reminder of the past.
During his poignant speech at the institutional tribute hosted by the General Courts for the victims of terrorism at the Congress of Deputies, Valenciano expressed his profound gratitude to Congress for maintaining its commitment to the victims. He underscored that the act of remembering is a "complex and necessary reality" that transcends individual experiences, evolving into a collective moral obligation. "It is the axis that unites all claims from the victims of terrorism," he asserted.
The Essence of Memory: A Commitment to Peace and Justice
Valenciano posited that remembering the victims of terrorist attacks serves as a critical commitment to peace, freedom, and truth. “Memory protects the dignity of those who suffered irreparable loss,” he stressed, highlighting its role as both a precursor to justice and an antidote to societal amnesia.
Despite these sentiments, he pointed out that Spain still faces significant challenges related to its historical reckoning with terrorism. He articulated the necessity of approaching memory work with a narrative that is "clear, firm, and unambiguous" to prevent the distortion or justification of terrorism, which has caused extensive suffering and loss in Spain, leading to over 1,450 murders and countless injuries.
Addressing Open Wounds and Injustices
Valenciano voiced concern over the lingering “open wounds” in society, arguing for a singular truth that is free of equidistances. He outlined several overdue initiatives, including the right to know the truth behind more than 300 unresolved attacks. He also highlighted the compensation discrimination affecting victims based on whether there has been a firm conviction against perpetrators. The call for equal recognition among all victims is paramount, he stated, as no victim should endure the humiliation of being overlooked or undervalued.
In an emphatic tone, he warned against the need for lawmakers to take decisive action against terrorism-supporting acts. "A firm action by the three branches of government is essential to ensure that these manifestations are banned, persecuted, and rigorously sanctioned," he urged.
Education as a Tool for Transformation
Valenciano concluded his remarks by emphasizing the critical role of education in fostering social transformation. He urged the need for young people to understand the complex history of Spain, particularly the terrorist attacks that shaped the nation. This knowledge is essential to prevent radicalization and to foster an environment where hate cannot thrive. "Our testimonies are powerful weapons against hatred," he declared, advocating for a collective insistence on peace and dignity.
The Absence of Key Associations and Political Parties
Attendees of this memorial included various parliamentary representatives, though notable absences were felt, particularly among major associations like the Association of Victims of Terrorism (AVT), Covite, and Dignity and Justice (DYJ). Their nonattendance highlights a protest against the current government’s alliances, particularly its agreements with the party Bildu, which they believe symbolizes a tacit endorsement of ETA.
The AVT has rejected participation for six consecutive years due to perceived accommodations with Bildu, labeling them "representatives of ETA" within institutional frameworks. The leadership of Covite echoed similar sentiments, considering it cynical to honor victims in a forum where Bildu exists without acknowledging its terrorist roots. Similarly, DYJ articulated frustration, insisting that the best honor to the victims would be for the government to condemn its agreements with Bildu.
Vox, represented by José María Figaredo, dismissed the tribute as a “masquerade and farce” aimed at legitimizing the political heirs of ETA, reaffirming their position against any perceived acceptance of Bildu’s role.
Commemorating the Past: A Moment of Silence
The act of remembrance has its origins in a deeply painful event in history. The day was chosen to mark the tragic loss of a 22-month-old girl who perished due to an explosive device planted by the Iberian Revolutionary Liberation Board of Liberation (DRIL) in 1960.
The ceremonial observance commenced with the Congress President greeting representatives in the Lost Steps room before proceeding to the Constitutional Chamber, where the poignant piece “Ephemeral Prelude” was performed by Ivo Lago Costas from the Royal Superior Conservatory of Music of Madrid. After the speeches concluded, a moment of silence was observed, followed by a musical tribute, highlighting both the depth of loss and the enduring call for justice and remembrance.
Engaging with this topic compels society to confront its past not as a specter but as a means to safeguard the future—a notion that demands attention from all sectors of governance and society alike.