"What we achieved was thanks to feminism": 10 years since women embraced the roar of La Manada

In Spain, certain cases have acted as pivotal moments in the fight against gender-based violence, shaping public consciousness, legal frameworks, and societal attitudes. These incidents often come at a high personal cost for the individuals involved, yet they serve as catalysts for broader change. Among these, the stories of Ana Orantes and the survivor known as “La Manada” stand out as two landmark cases that transformed how society views and addresses gender violence.

Ana Orantes was murdered on December 17, 1997, by her husband, José Parejo, after she had publicly spoken about years of abuse during a television interview just 15 days earlier. Her death became a turning point, igniting widespread mobilization against domestic violence. This led to the eventual passage of Spain’s comprehensive Law Against Gender Violence in 2004 under Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero and Equality Minister Bibiana Aído. The case highlighted the urgent need for institutional support and awareness, setting the stage for future legislative advancements.

Twenty years later, another incident would spark similar waves of activism and legal reform. On July 7, 2016, a young woman attended the San Fermín festival in Pamplona when she was sexually assaulted by five men in a narrow alleyway. The attackers were identified as Antonio Manuel Guerrero Escudero, Jesús Escudero, José Ángel Prenda, Alfonso Jesús Cabezuelo, and Ángel Boza. The victim was found in distress by passersby, leading to their arrest and triggering a powerful public reaction. This case, referred to as “La Manada,” became emblematic of the broader issue of sexual violence and sparked intense debates over justice and societal responsibility.

The significance of such cases lies not only in the events themselves but also in the broader context of existing social unrest and feminist activism. According to Nuria Varela, a journalist and feminist activist who worked closely with Aído, these incidents gain momentum because of prior efforts by women's movements to name and address systemic issues. In the case of gender violence, early feminist work laid the groundwork for recognizing and addressing domestic abuse before formal legislation existed. Similarly, the lack of state-supported strategies for dealing with sexual violence made the 2016 incident particularly impactful.

Before “La Manada,” there had been other significant cases that influenced public discourse. For example, in 2008, Nagore Laffage was killed by José Diego Yllanes after she refused his advances, which shocked Navarra and prompted discussions around sexual freedom. This case contributed to growing awareness and community action. Then, in November 2015, the national feminist movement organized a large demonstration called the State March Against Machist Violence, further amplifying voices demanding change.

The impact of “La Manada” extended beyond the immediate outrage. It exposed flaws within the judicial system, where initial rulings failed to recognize the severity of the crime, leading to widespread frustration among victims and activists alike. Despite this, the case galvanized a new wave of feminism, emphasizing collective strength and solidarity. Women across Spain came together in demonstrations, showing that the movement was not limited to one region but was a nationwide effort.

For many, the incident marked a shift in understanding the safety of public spaces for women. Patricia Aranguren, a local activist, recalls how participating in annual festivals like San Fermín shaped her awareness of potential dangers. She notes that while the event is celebrated, it also serves as a reminder of the risks women face in such environments. The response to “La Manada” was swift and massive, with spontaneous gatherings in cities like Madrid, demonstrating the power of grassroots organizing.

As the legal process unfolded, the case continued to influence public perception and policy discussions. Activists like Teresa Sáez, co-founder of Lunes Lilas, remember the overwhelming turnout at protests, noting that both men and women participated, indicating a broader societal engagement. This collective response underscored the importance of challenging norms and fostering a culture of accountability.

Looking ahead, the legacy of these cases continues to shape ongoing conversations about gender equality, legal reforms, and the protection of survivors. While challenges remain, the resilience and determination of those affected offer hope for continued progress in addressing gender-based violence.