During a visit to the Casa de Castilla-La Mancha in Barcelona, the president of Castilla-La Mancha, Emiliano García-Page, highlighted the significance of shared identities as a testament to cultural richness. He stated, “This house is a living testament to what it means to share identities. There is not a single plant in the world, nor a single tree that has only one root. If we are serious, we must understand that each of us is the result of many roots. Spain has always been a country where people have mixed.”
García-Page's remarks came as he addressed members of the Castilian-Manchegan community in Barcelona, many of whom arrived in the city over fifty years ago from various parts of the autonomous community. He expressed hope that from 29 November onwards, discussions would shift from conflict to consensus, stating, “What the vast majority of people ask for are agreements and consensus.”
He further commented on the dangers of identity-based disputes, noting, “Disputing over identities, which has been behind many wars in the world, is the most inhumane thing a human being can do.” He used the Casa de Castilla-La Mancha as an example of coexistence and the value of sharing identities.
García-Page asserted that “the battles worth fighting are those for equality in services and living conditions, and for mutual support as a country. The battles that must be eradicated are those that generate conflict, where some believe they are superior to others or entitled to certain privileges.”
During the event, García-Page received a silver plaque from members of the Castilian-Manchegan community, who in turn were presented with a Toledo sword by the regional president. The visit was also attended by José Manuel Caballero, the second vice president of the Junta of Castilla-La Mancha.
