La Laguna to Vote on Official Venezuelan Community Day
The San Cristóbal de La Laguna City Council is set to vote on a motion to officially designate March 12 as Venezuelan Community Day, honoring the significant cultural and demographic contributions of the city's growing Venezuelan population.
The Venezuelan community in San Cristóbal de La Laguna is set to reach a new milestone in its integration. This Thursday, the Tenerife City Council will vote on a motion, introduced by Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, to officially designate March 12 as Venezuelan Community Day. The proposal aims to recognize the significant cultural and demographic contributions of Venezuelans, responding to calls for greater visibility from local social organizations.
This move reflects a clear statistical shift: according to the Canary Islands Institute of Statistics (Istac), over 10,000 Venezuelan citizens now live in the area, making up more than 6% of the local population. This growth has led to the creation of a strong support network, including groups like Sentir Ciudadano, Mi Mundo en Silencio, Flor de Mayo, Eco Armonía, and Christophorus Columbus. These organizations go beyond basic assistance, helping newcomers with paperwork, education, and civic involvement.
For many Venezuelans, settling in Tenerife has been eased by the island’s welcoming culture and a climate that feels familiar. However, representatives from these associations note that the key to long-term success remains overcoming administrative hurdles and getting professional qualifications recognized.
More than just a symbolic gesture, this commemorative day highlights a shift in how migrants are viewed—moving from passive residents to active contributors. While migration is often discussed in terms of crisis, La Laguna’s approach focuses on long-term integration. By supporting these associations, the city is recognizing that the Venezuelan community is a vital asset to the municipality’s future.