The PSOE of Santander hosted the seventh edition of the Carmen Alborch Awards, recognising Minister of Equality Ana Redondo for her contributions to feminism. During the event, attended by over 200 people at the Casino de Santander, Redondo described feminism as "a river that unites us," stressing that women should not be told what they can or cannot achieve. "If we want to be footballers, architects, or astronauts, no one should tell us we can't," she asserted.
Redondo further stated that equality is the foundation upon which democracy advances. "Without equality, there is no freedom, and without equality and freedom, there is no democracy. We know where we come from; 50 years ago, women were second-class citizens needing permission from fathers or husbands for everything, and some want to take us back to that era," she said.
She also highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women, referencing the 44 women murdered in 2026, just days before the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November.
Pedro Casares, Secretary General of the PSOE of Cantabria, described the Carmen Alborch Awards as "the most important event for equality in Santander and Cantabria." He praised the efforts of socialist women in Santander that have made the awards a recurring event, now in its seventh year.
Casares referred to Redondo as "one of the indispensable figures" in the fight for women's rights, stating that Carmen Alborch would be proud to see Redondo follow in the footsteps of other prominent women leaders. He expressed that Alborch would be advocating for social rights and equality today.
Casares added that the awards celebrate progress in women's rights, breaking glass ceilings, and the assumption of responsibilities by women in equal measure. He expressed pride in the PSOE's commitment to reforming the Spanish Constitution to protect women's right to abortion.
During the ceremony, presented by Lucía Corredera, Secretary of Equality for the PSOE of Santander, several organisations were recognised, including the College of Social Work, the Más Mujeres Creativas association, women traders from the Mercado de la Esperanza, and the Monte Soccer Feminas sports club. Casares highlighted the vital role of women traders in the market, describing them as the soul of Santander, and praised the young female footballers for their spirit and determination.
Daniel Fernández, Secretary General of the PSOE of Santander, also spoke at the event, noting the difficulties in defending women's rights in a climate where some seem intent on reversing progress. He questioned what it means to have gone too far when women still face wage disparities, fewer opportunities, and violence.
The awards featured an illustration by Roberto Orallo of Carmen Alborch, a prominent feminist figure who passed away on 24 October 2018, remembered for her significant contributions to Spanish society.
