Marbella Honours First Female Councillors with Promenade Naming
Marina Torres and Pepi Romero, the first two women to serve as councillors in Marbella town hall, have been honoured by their town with a promenade named after them in Arroyo de la Represa. This tribute marks a significant shift in local politics that began 41 years ago, when women were finally given a place in the municipality, having previously been confined to other roles.
Historical Context of Women’s Political Participation in Spain
The first local elections in Spain took place in April 1979, following the endorsement of the 1978 Constitution. This legal framework granted women full rights and the freedom to demand others that were previously unknown in the country. The government encouraged participation in social and political life by legally mandating a 25 per cent female representation on electoral lists. In 1983, Torres and Romero became the embodiment of this milestone in Marbella.
Emotional Tribute to Pioneering Women
The tribute ceremony was attended by the women’s families, friends, and institutional representatives. Marbella’s mayor, Ángeles Muñoz, expressed her pride in the two pioneers who played an active and committed role in challenging times. She emphasized that they paved the way for many others, and the town now has a physical space to honour their significant personal and professional contributions.
Support for the Initiative
The initiative, proposed by the local PSOE and the Marbella Feminista association, received unanimous support from all parties. Both former councillors expressed their gratitude for the recognition and extended the tribute to all women who strive to break glass ceilings and claim new spaces for women.
Reflections on a Groundbreaking Partnership
Romero spoke fondly of her time working with Torres, praising her steadfast values and dedication to public service. Torres echoed these sentiments, expressing her joy at the tribute and her gratitude to Marbella.
Political Legacy
Torres and Romero joined the municipal government in 1983 under the Socialist PSOE, with José Luis Rodríguez as mayor. Their PSOE colleagues, both past and present, were in attendance at the event. Isabel Pérez, the PSOE spokesperson for Marbella, highlighted the immense significance of these two women as the first female councillors, acknowledging the challenges they faced and the path they paved for future generations.
