Presentation of the -NOS group in Alicante
As a coalition of 26 civil organizations spanning social, educational, cultural, and labor sectors, the -NOS group emerged with a shared objective: to defend and promote the Valencian language. The initiative took a formal step this Thursday in Alicante, beginning with a presentation in the city center at the University of Alicante. The event drew attention not only for the language cause but also for the political climate surrounding language policy, with observers noting criticism aimed at the governing parties during the proceedings.
Several figures connected with local governance attended, underscoring the intersection between cultural advocacy and municipal politics. Among those present were Sara Llobell, a Compromís councillor, and Manolo Copé, spokesperson for Esquerra Unida-Unides Podem. Also in attendance was Natxo Bellido, a former spokesperson for Compromís, while Rafa Mas, the current municipal spokesperson, was unable to attend due to a clash with another municipal meeting. The gathering occurred within Alicante City Council’s sphere of influence, reflecting how language policy can become a topic of public dialogue at the local government level.
The -NOS association presented itself as a network committed to recognizing Valencian as an official language within the community. Its founders described the alliance as a coalition designed to safeguard linguistic rights and to push for concrete measures from the autonomous administration that align with the Statute of Autonomy. With a focus on accountability and proactive language policy, the group announced its intention to monitor developments and to advocate for the implementation of statutes and commitments that support Valencian language use. The event featured remarks from respected figures in the language and culture sector, including Alexandra Usó from Escola Valenciana, Marinela Garcia of Cultural Action of the Country of Valencia, Roser Serra of Plataforma per la Llengua, and Beatriu Cardona from SteP Valencian initiatives. Their participation emphasized the breadth of support for Valencian language empowerment across educational, cultural, and civil society circles.
In the broader context of public discourse, the presentation was a point of reference for discussions about how regional language policies intersect with regional identity and everyday life. The alliance’s stance highlighted a desire for transparent and consistent policy actions that protect the language’s status and ensure its visibility in public institutions. The event also signaled a willingness among diverse groups to collaborate on long-term projects that promote Valencian language education, cultural expression, and civic participation.
Alicante, as a city with a rich cultural landscape, provides a fitting backdrop for such initiatives. The presentation served not only as a rallying moment for those who support Valencian language rights but also as a public reminder to policymakers about their responsibilities toward language preservation and respect for regional statutes. The conversations that followed during the gathering touched on practical steps, including potential reforms in administrative procedures, school curricula, and cultural programming that would reinforce Valencian language presence in daily life, public services, and community spaces.
Observers noted that the event’s attendees represented a spectrum of civic life, from academic circles to grassroots cultural groups. The presence of municipal spokespeople highlighted the delicate balance between political leadership and civil society advocacy when it comes to language policy. By bringing together such a diverse coalition, the -NOS group underscored the importance of cross-sector collaboration to advance language rights in a way that resonates with a broad audience and remains anchored in the reality of local governance.
The day’s proceedings illustrated the importance of sustained engagement and ongoing dialogue among cultural organizations, educators, and public officials. As the Valencian language movement continues to attract interest and momentum, the alliance appears positioned to keep the conversation active, establish concrete milestones, and encourage ongoing participation from communities across the Valencian lands. In this spirit, the coalition aimed to translate public discourse into tangible outcomes that reinforce Valencian language vitality across education, media, and public life.