Cuenca, Spain – Over 100 women from across Spain gathered in Cuenca this week for “Arte y Activismo: mujeres transformando” (Art and Activism: Women Transforming), a series of workshops and discussions centered on the power of art as a tool for feminist activism. The event, organized by STEs-Intersindical (STEs-i), aims to deepen understanding of art’s role in social transformation and highlight the contributions of women in the field. The gathering underscores a growing movement to leverage creative expression for political and social change, offering a space for reflection and collaboration among women from diverse professional backgrounds.
The jornadas, or workshops, which began on February 20, 2026, were presented at the Hospedería Seminario. Participants heard from Sonia Blanco, head of the Women’s Organization of the Confederación Intersindical, alongside Eva López and Patricia De Ángel, leaders of the Women’s Area in Cuenca. Ana Eloisa Olmeda Peñarrubia, the provincial delegate for Equality, also attended the opening session, signaling support for the initiative. The event comes at a time of heightened awareness surrounding gender equality and the ongoing need for feminist activism, both in Spain and internationally.
Blanco explained that the jornadas are part of an annual feminist training program organized by the Women’s Organization, with each edition focusing on a different theme. This year’s focus on art and activism reflects a belief in the medium’s unique capacity to challenge norms and inspire change. “This year we wanted to focus on activism within art and its ability to transform reality. Art has historically been a tool of denunciation and resistance,” Blanco stated, according to reporting from Liberal de Castilla. The goal, she added, is to continue recognizing and amplifying the work of women in the arts.
A Broad Spectrum of Participants
The jornadas are not limited to artists or educators. Organizers emphasized that the event is open to all members of the Confederación Intersindical, representing a wide range of sectors. Participants include women working in administration, public services – such as cleaning, healthcare and public order – as well as those in education. “It’s not just training for teachers, but a space for feminist encounter and reflection open to working women from different fields,” organizers noted. This inclusive approach aims to foster cross-sector collaboration and broaden the reach of feminist activism.
The diverse representation reflects a deliberate effort to move beyond traditional activist circles and engage women who may not typically identify as activists. By providing a platform for dialogue and skill-sharing, the jornadas seek to empower women from all walks of life to utilize their voices and talents to advocate for social change. This approach acknowledges that activism takes many forms and that every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference.
Connecting to a Legacy of Feminist Action in Cuenca
The choice of Cuenca as the location for the jornadas is also significant. The city has a rich history of feminist organizing, dating back to the 1970s. In 2025, the ‘Movimiento 8 de Marzo’ (March 8th Movement) of Cuenca celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of feminist and social struggle in the region. El Mercurio reported on the movement’s origins during a period of military dictatorship in Ecuador, when women faced significant inequality and limited rights.
Founded in 1975, the Movimiento 8 de Marzo emerged as a network of women dedicated to challenging the status quo and advocating for gender equality. Founders like Heidi Gallegos, Matilde Galarza, and Cecile Durán, among others, drew inspiration from global feminist movements and their own experiences of injustice. The movement’s legacy continues to inspire activists today, demonstrating the enduring power of collective action and the importance of intergenerational solidarity.
STEs-Intersindical and the Broader Feminist Landscape
STEs-Intersindical (STEs-i), the organization behind the jornadas, is a Spanish trade union confederation known for its commitment to social justice and workers’ rights. The organization’s focus on feminist training reflects a growing recognition of the intersectionality of labor rights and gender equality. A post on X (formerly Twitter) from STEs-CLM highlighted the event, emphasizing its aim to position art as a tool for feminist activism.
The jornadas represent a broader trend within the Spanish feminist movement, which has been at the forefront of advocating for progressive social policies, including gender equality legislation and reproductive rights. The movement has also played a key role in raising awareness about issues such as gender-based violence and the gender pay gap. By supporting initiatives like “Arte y Activismo: mujeres transformando,” STEs-i is contributing to a vibrant and dynamic feminist landscape in Spain.
Organizers have not yet announced specific follow-up events or initiatives stemming from the jornadas. However, the momentum generated by the gathering is expected to fuel ongoing discussions and collaborations among participants, furthering the use of art as a catalyst for feminist activism. Readers interested in learning more about STEs-Intersindical and their work can visit their website for updates and information on future events.
What are your thoughts on the role of art in social movements? Share your perspectives in the comments below, and please share this article with others who may be interested in this important conversation.
