On 16 April, the Legal Self-Defence Against Racism Workshop was held at the Casal de les Dones in Reus, as part of the Racial Justice and Empowerment 2026 project.
The event, organised by La Fragua Projects, was attended by more than twenty people, including members of the public and representatives from various local organisations working with migrants and/or people of colour, such as Reus Refugi, H2O and the Madre Tierra Association.
The event was organised in collaboration with Reus City Council and with the support of the Department of Social Rights and Inclusion of the Government of Catalonia and the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and the 2030 Agenda.
The workshop was led by Pastora Filigrana García, a lawyer and renowned human rights activist, who began her presentation by addressing racism as a historical and structural reality that remains very much present today, both within institutions and in all aspects of daily life. Using specific examples and case studies, she analysed how the rights of racialised people are violated in the workplace, as well as in access to housing, healthcare and public services. This approach helped participants understand that discrimination is not an isolated phenomenon, but a system that determines opportunities, treatment and expectations.
An anti-racist approach to the lack of reporting
One of the key issues addressed at the workshop was the lack of reporting, shifting the focus from the victims to the barriers that prevent them from exercising their rights as citizens. The various causes and obstacles faced by migrants and/or racialised people in this area were analysed, including, amongst others, a lack of awareness of their own rights, mistrust of institutions, low expectations of redress, and the normalisation of racism. All these factors were identified, highlighting how they interfere with the ability of victims of racism and/or xenophobia to lodge complaints or reports and to demand justice and redress.
Presentation of the RJE 2025 Study Guide
During the session, the RJE 2025 Study-Guide was also presented; this is a highly practical tool designed to facilitate the reporting of acts that violate the right to equal treatment and non-discrimination on racist and/or xenophobic grounds. The document provides clear guidance on the steps to be taken and examples to assist those affected, as well as those supporting them throughout the reporting process, so that they can do so more safely and effectively.
A community space for the defence of rights
This workshop aims to establish itself as a space for collective learning where participants and organisations can share experiences, concerns and strategies to strengthen the defence of the rights of migrants and/or people of colour. The initiative highlights the importance of accessible legal training and community support in combating racism from a holistic perspective.
Source: La Fragua Projects
Photos: La Fragua Projects