The Inclusive Holy Week collective in Sagunto, Spain, has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the potential classification of their local Holy Week festivities as a National Tourist Interest. This sentiment arises from ongoing gender exclusion, particularly the historical banning of women from participating in processions organized by the cofradía of the Puríssima Sang del Nostre Senyor Jesucrist. Activists within the group, led by spokesperson Blanca Ribelles, argue that such a classification is hypocritical and discriminatory given the longstanding ban on women that contradicts the values of inclusivity.

The community has a rich tradition of celebrating Holy Week with fervor that dates back to the 16th century, yet the exclusion of women from processions represents an outdated practice in modern society. Citizens have raised their concerns, prompting government evaluation of whether there are sufficient indications of a ‘deemed loss’ of the National Tourist Interest status. The collective's hope is that the regional brotherhood will amend its statutes voluntarily rather than face external imposition, reflecting growing demands in Spain for gender equality across all sectors of society.

This controversy not only highlights local tensions regarding religious practices and gender equality but also challenges broader societal norms. As Spain continues to grapple with issues of inclusivity and representation, the fate of Sagunto's Holy Week celebrations may serve as a microcosm for the larger national debates on equality and tradition. Should the government heed the community's calls for change, it could initiate significant dialogue around the intersection of cultural heritage and contemporary values, while further emphasizing the importance of equal participation in public life.