Last Friday, May 23rd, a manageable group of supporters of the Spanish Falange gathered in the heart of Madrid for a march against immigration. The demonstration, approved despite concerns from schools, residents’ associations, and cultural institutions, reproduced the well-known repertoire of the European far-right. From popular German ultra songs to the aesthetics of Italian formations, everything was there – only the hoped-for turnout was missing.
The march’s route led through the bustling city center, including the lively squares of Callao and Puerta del Sol, and was supposed to culminate in the symbolic anti-fascist enclave of Plaza de Tirso de Molina in the Lavapiés district. However, the Falange’s expected provocation met with a well-organized and determined counter-reaction.
Between the Old Guard and New Faces
As exclusive footage from Diario Red shows, the demonstration consisted mainly of some well-known faces from the Falangist scene and an overwhelming majority of young men. It was noteworthy that the organization’s own press service was allowed to film the march with masked faces, while other media professionals working openly were accosted by participants.
During the march, slogans such as “Ayuso, clown, the Menas to your house” and homophobic insults against the Minister of the Interior echoed. Interestingly, an incident occurred when a small group of young people tried to make the Roman salute and chant “Sieg Heil”. They were quickly stopped by one of the organizers (visible in the pictures wearing a white polo shirt) who explained that German slogans were forbidden at this march. Nevertheless, the displayed ultra-masculinity was omnipresent and reflected in the provocative poses of the participants.
Madrid ayer fue un clamor:
— Juventudes Falangistas de España (@JFalange) May 24, 2025
¡¡REMIGRACIÓN!! pic.twitter.com/zf6Ws7EszO
Lavapiés Says “They Shall Not Pass!”
The Falange supporters’ short tour met with the expected anti-fascist resistance in Lavapiés. Hundreds of neighbors and activists had gathered in Plaza de Tirso de Molina to greet the demonstrators with the determined cry “They shall not pass!”. Surrounded by a strong police presence, the residents of Lavapiés once again demonstrated their anti-racist and anti-fascist stance, manifesting in a spontaneous but impressive mobilization. The neighborhood’s determination made it clear that Madrid is no place for hate and discrimination.
