Benidorm advances its program to promote inclusion of Romani people with training workshops

Benidorm City Council is making progress in developing its Roma Inclusion Program by offering "training workshops" on "co-responsibility, equality, digital literacy and ICT awareness, and diversity," among other topics. This was announced today by the Councilor for Social Welfare, Ángela Zaragozí, who explained that "through these workshops, which will be held throughout 2025, we aim to contribute to increasing knowledge, attitudes, and practices that promote lifestyles adapted to today's social reality and reduce the inequality affecting Roma people."

Zaragozí announced this upcoming initiative coinciding with International Roma Day, which is celebrated today. To commemorate this event, a banner bearing the Roma flag, which was established on April 8, 1971, at the first World Romani/Gypsy Congress held in London, will be displayed on the façade of City Hall.

Likewise, Benidorm City Council has adopted the manifesto launched by the Valencian Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FVMP), which states that "for centuries, the Roma people have been part of the social, cultural, and historical fabric of Spain and the Valencian Community, contributing richness in areas such as music, art, language, and coexistence." However, "they have also been victims of discrimination, exclusion, and persecution that persist today in different forms."

Given this reality, she continues, "It is essential that public institutions promote policies of inclusion and respect, encouraging the recognition and full participation of the Roma people in all areas of society," something that the City Council will work on through the training courses announced by Zaragoza.

The councillor recalled that "Benidorm has a specific plan for Roma people focused on inclusion" and "has staff assigned to develop the program." Among the actions carried out are: counselling, guidance, or referral to Social Services; individualized, family, or community social work; assistance with processing documentation or managing resources; academic support, monitoring, and reinforcement; literacy projects for adults; and the promotion of leisure, free-time, and cultural and health-promoting activities, among others.