Mexican content creator Mario Lara Mijares has reported experiencing "Catalanophobia" in Barcelona. This occurred after he posted a video on Instagram speaking fluent Catalan. He defends his choice to learn the local language, highlighting the importance of cultural adaptation.
Mr Lara Mijares, who has lived in Barcelona for several months, shared the video "without provoking anyone." He expressed surprise at the volume of negative reactions. Critics commented, "You are in Spain and Spanish is spoken," and "If you speak Catalan, you are pathetic and a renegade." He believes that "when you arrive somewhere that is not yours, no matter where you come from, you are the one who has to adapt." He added, "Not them to you."
Learning Catalan in Barcelona
Mr Lara Mijares quickly learned Catalan in just a few months. He is now preparing for the official B1 language exam. This level demonstrates a solid intermediate understanding and ability to communicate. He clarified that Catalan does not compete with Castilian, which is also widely spoken in Barcelona. However, he highlighted a significant historical difference between the two languages.
Historical Context of Catalan Language
"Castilian was never prohibited, Catalan was, for 40 years," he stated. This period refers to the Franco dictatorship, which suppressed Catalan culture and language. During that time, people could not speak Catalan in public spaces. Authorities also banned its teaching in schools. Authorities similarly forbade publishing materials in Catalan. This historical context shapes current attitudes towards the language.
Respecting Local Culture and Identity
Mr Lara Mijares asserted, "Catalan is not a threat to anyone." He explained it is "the language of a people who have been here for centuries and who have every right in the world to speak it." He believes that when someone learns Catalan, regardless of their origin, they are not attacking anyone. Instead, they are "respecting the history and culture of a place and of its people." This perspective resonates strongly in Catalonia, where language is a core part of identity. For the city's large international community, understanding this dynamic is key to integration.
Personal Motivation for Language Immersion
The Mexican content creator stated his video had "no hidden message or political agenda." He learned Catalan as a gesture of gratitude to the city and country that welcomed him. "Catalonia has received me with a generosity I did not expect," he said. He feels "the least I can do is learn to speak with them in their own language." He aims to connect better with local residents and understand his new home more deeply. He also wants to respond in Catalan when spoken to, considering it "the most basic thing when you move to a new place."
Mr Lara Mijares' experience highlights ongoing discussions about language and integration in Catalonia. It also shows the challenges some newcomers face when embracing local culture. His story encourages dialogue about linguistic respect and community building within Barcelona's diverse population.
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Originally published by Tot Barcelona. Read original article.
