Javier Sierra (from Alternativa Icodense), the mayor of Icod de los Vinos in the north of Tenerife, has reported on social media that he has been subjected to homophobic slurs following the appearance of several graffiti targeting him in the city centre. In a post on X (previously known as Twitter), Sierra reveals that he receives such messages “on a daily basis” and shares two images showing graffiti against him in Icod’s downtown area and a message he received on a social platform.
Sierra captions the images with a statement where he describes politics as “a calling of serving” his people, “respecting all ideas, and allowing every individual the freedom to support their preferred choice.” However, he emphasises, “there are boundaries that should not be crossed. It is acceptable to disagree, but not in this manner. No one deserves this kind of attack.”
In conclusion, he adds: “I am immensely proud of who I am and where I stand. We will persist in promoting education, respect, and acceptance of diverse opinions as our main pillars. Yes, with immense pride. Thank you for making me stronger,” he writes, alongside the rainbow flag.
Several users have responded to the post with messages of solidarity, expressing their disapproval for those responsible for the insults.
At the age of 33, he became the youngest mayor of Tenerife in 2023, securing governance in the Icod City Council with the backing of the PSOE, a party he was previously affiliated with.
