Bonnie and I walked into the centre to see what was happening today, the day of the General Strike
The shops around us were all open – little independent ones. Further into town there were a lot of closed shutters, especially the big chains like Mango or Caprabo. There were enough places open so you could buy bread, some boots, a handbag, a computer or a newspaper and some cafes had customers eating and drinking. But the general feeling was of a quiet lunchtime, some people wandering around with their dogs and children but all fairly low key. Schools are closed – we have two boys here enjoying yet another day off.
I think I had missed a demonstration – in the Porxada there were a few groups of people chatting who looked as if they had been at some protest. The Catalan flag with the star is the Independence flag.
here it was like a really bonus weekend, lots of people at the beach and wandering around town….relaxed.
I saw the photos in the paper today and of course there was a large demonstration in Granollers. I just missed it. And a really huge one in Barcelona of course.
The thing that is all over the news and the TV now though are the evictions. horrible scenes of people being dragged along by armed and helmeted police. Neighbours supporting each other and trying to reason with the police but in spite of their courage they are pushed about without much humanity. K