One of La Laguna’s main annual celebrations could see its official opening return to a rather more civic setting if Unidas se puede gets its way.
The local political group has asked La Laguna Town Hall to bring the official proclamation for the Fiestas del Santísimo Cristo back to the Council Chamber in the historic Casas Consistoriales.
And this is not some brand-new idea pulled out of a hat.
According to Unidas se puede, the Council Chamber hosted the opening proclamation on several occasions over the years, including in 1995, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2011, 2018, 2019 and 2022.
A return to an old tradition
Councillor Saúl Alberola says the Fiestas del Cristo are part of La Laguna’s shared identity and go beyond individual religious beliefs.
The proposal is not about removing the religious side of the celebrations. Instead, the group wants to separate religious ceremonies from institutional and civic events, allowing both to have their own place.
Their argument is that the Council Chamber, as the home of La Laguna’s democratic representation, is a fitting venue for the official event that opens one of the municipality’s biggest annual celebrations.
More than just religious events
Unidas se puede has also raised the wider issue of how La Laguna marks important dates and celebrations.
The group pointed to the recent anniversary of the city’s foundation, which was largely centred around a religious service and procession. They believe historical and civic occasions should also include secular and cultural activities.
Basically, they are not suggesting that anyone should lose their traditions. They just want a bit more room for everyone.
As Alberola put it, public institutions should be able to respect religious beliefs while also representing those who do not follow any religion.
Whether La Laguna Town Hall decides to bring the proclamation back to the Council Chamber remains to be seen. But Unidas se puede is clearly hoping that one of the town’s biggest fiestas can have a little more civic representation alongside its long-established religious traditions.