June 22, 2026, marks 50 years since Madrid's first major legal demonstration of the Transition. Over 50,000 people protested in 1976 against the rising cost of living and for the legalization of neighborhood associations. A march is being held today to commemorate the event.
The June 22, 1976, protest filled Preciados Street for the half hour authorized by Franco-era authorities. Demonstrators demanded legalization of neighborhood associations and protested rising prices of basic goods such as bread.
César Lucas captured the iconic “photo of the little fist” showing a boy with his fist raised. The image ran in EL PAÍS and caused friction with Carlos Arias Navarro’s government.
Paca Sauquillo and Pepe Molina, organizers of the original march, will join today’s event called by the FRAVM at 19:00. The procession starts at Puerta del Sol and ends at Plaza de Callao with speeches and live music.
