Teresa Forcades is beyond doubt an extraordinary nun. Ms. Forcades (Barcelona, 1966) is an MD and has a PhD in Theology. In 1997 she turned to religion and has since then lived at the monastery of Sant Benet in Montserrat. The call of God and the contemplative life, however, have not been an obstacle to evolving as a public figure, giving lectures or taking part in media conferences. She also moves easily around the digital world. The Benedictine nun speaks out and has often defended the process towards independence for Catalonia as long as it is linked to greater social justice.
Catalonia is enjoying a moment of transformation, considering the referendum for independence by 2014
The relationship of Catalonia with the rest of the Spanish state isn’t exactly what we would call ideal... Far from it, when it comes to economic issues we can say that we –Catalonia– give a lot more than we receive and, therefore, the central government does not respect us to the point of disdain. Moreover, Catalonia has a long history and has long asserted its wish to start on and follow a different path, even in the event the Spanish Government now decides to change and treat us in the best way possible. I do believe that the national claim, in its most sovereign sense, has its ultimate justification in the will of the people. If this will is categorically expressed, there is nothing that can be done to stop it. That is how I understand the articulation of collective freedom. We have historical roots, a language, but above all we have the will to build a different future. The will for a new future will have to be taken into account and respected. This is the essence of democracy after all.
And this new path, how would you see it being built?
If I believe in the project of an independent Catalonia, it is because I think we can build a society with policy guidelines for social justice in a very different way from what we currently have... Europe would have to turn one way whereas at the moment they are going in exactly the opposite direction. Many people are convinced that the current system is an utter disaster. One billion people are going hungry, but we still throw tons of surplus food away because we are badly organised. We have built up unreal needs while forgetting about the real ones. Most people admit that this current system does not work; however, they say nothing can be done... Who says nothing can be done? It certainly can!
Therefore, the independence process would have to be linked to a social transformation...?
It makes no sense if it does not. Independence does make sense when it is coupled with greater social justice. There is a large amount of interest from those with powers whom do not want to change the current model and so revive the nationalist controversy to conceal and divert the issue. Our rights, our language, ‘Catalanism’...etc are constantly being debated and are very important aspects indeed, but what really should be in the centre spotlight is nothing else but the subject of social transformation. Everyone would have to be clear about what is important... No more evictions, no more massive cost cuts...etc.
Do you see an independent Catalonia and fairer social justice system in the near future?
The key is the people's will, if it is manifest then it will be invincible. The challenge is how the ‘will’ of the people is organised. Throughout history there have been minorities who have dominated the majority. And how have they managed? Well, mainly with the army, but not only with the military. The army is significant when it comes to dominating a group, but this cannot be achieved with violence alone. It also needs to be combined with ideological elements. It is crucial then that the people are convinced that fighting against injustice is not worth it. If people and society believe it is worth fighting, all the tanks that they have will be useless and a waste of time. If everyone has made up their mind, everything can change overnight. However, we must be aware of the challenge and the difficulties. It is imperative to build those foundations first. If this grass-roots organisation exists, then this social change, both towards independence and to greater social justice, will be possible. The first thing is to dismiss the idea that we have to ask for permission. Nobody has to give us permission.
Nor is permission required to carry out a Referendum?
If we accept that, we are recognising an authority. If we really believe in democracy, then the authority is the people's, collectively. A few people get together, decide what they want to do and do it. However, you must be aware that there will be a price to pay and you have to be willing to pay it. It is going to be a struggle. We cannot expect it to be smooth sailing all the way just because we decide to stick to our decisions...
What will be the price be?
The price is the social struggle itself. In Iceland, for example, there has been a bloodless transition in the streets. It's not a question of a doomsday scenario, but Iceland has been able to overcome the fear that was initially installed in their minds and souls. They were told that if they quit European austerity policies, they would never be able to get back on their feet again. But they tried and now they seem to be doing better than us. We need to make ‘social change’ happen. I really believe that it is still possible to make a transition here with minimal violence. Things here aren't as bad as in Venezuela where the social division and the abyss between rich and poor is a matter of fact; but they could be, ten years down the line...
Source: Diario.es
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