On September 29th Spain found itself amidst a nation-wide general strike (or "huelga") due to the economic crisis that is taking a heavy tole on this country. The news was full of images of people from dawn until dusk walking the streets of Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, etc... blocking buses and cars from continuing along the highways, sticking "Huelga, Sí" stickers to storefronts, ATMs, street lights, and bus windows. Although Granada certainly had a large crowd of protesters, the demonstrations held on the main street of town did not get out of hand or result in anything like the dangerous protests in larger cities - such as the car burnings in Barcelona.
Most stores were closed during this Wednesday, and those that stayed open had maximum security standing at the entrance. One of the few buildings that stayed open, even though they risked windows being broken or protesters barring their doors, was my school - what joy! Yes, while most of Spain was partaking in a historical event, I was taking my final exam for my intensive month class. It turns out, however, that this national strike was not as popular as I thought it was, and that in the end I was not the only person missing out on the "excitement." My host family later explained to me that most business were closed out of fear rather than out of support, as those participating in the strike were just as aggressive to their fellow, common workers for not protesting as they were to the government and upper class for their lies about the economic crisis. They also pointed out that the leaders of these work unions were hypocritical men who spoke for the "under-paid man" while being seen eating in most expensive restaurants in Madrid. Some things just seem to be the same no matter where you go...
Needless to say, it was an exciting day to see everyone united in action (or in hiding) across an entire nation.
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