Teruel rainbow bench vandalized in suspected hate crime

The rainbow-colored bench at Fuente Torán in Teruel, Spain, has been vandalized again. The bench, a symbol of LGTBIQ+ diversity, was defaced with the word “Guarros” (sluts/filthy) written on its backrest.

The Chrysallis association has filed a formal complaint with the National Police, classifying the incident as a hate crime. This follows a history of repeated attacks on the site, including previous instances of swastikas and homophobic or transphobic insults being painted on the furniture.

Local collectives, including Teruel con Orgullo, have rejected attempts to categorize the incident as mere mischief or minor vandalism. They argue that the attack is linked to the current social and political climate and emphasize that such symbols are vital for representing a city where all citizens can feel safe. The collectives have called on the City Council to remove the graffiti immediately and have expressed intentions to repaint the bench.