Spain mourns farmer who symbolized protests
The gardens of the Aljafería Palace in Zaragoza, Spain, recently hosted a heartfelt tribute honoring David Lafoz, a 27-year-old farmer and co-founder of Aragón es Ganadería y Agricultura (AEGA). Lafoz, a prominent advocate for farmers' rights, was found dead by apparent suicide, prompting widespread grief across the Aragón region. His final Instagram message poignantly expressed the unbearable burdens of long working hours and the relentless scrutiny from tax and labor authorities, shedding light on the struggles faced by many in the agricultural sector.
Lafoz first gained national prominence in early 2024 when he drove his tractor to the gates of the Aljafería Palace during a mass farmers' protest, passionately calling to "save the countryside." His image became a symbol of rural resistance, representing the frustrations of farmers battling against systemic challenges. Beyond protests, Lafoz distinguished himself through his commitment to community solidarity, notably volunteering in Valencia after devastating floods in late 2024, where he was among the first to help clear debris with his tractor.
His funeral in Belchite drew nearly 2,000 mourners, including farmers, local residents, and fellow activists. A moving tribute featured tractors stationed outside the San Martín de Tours church as a "guard of honor," with many attendees echoing the sentiment that "not only has David left, but the countryside is dying with him." This powerful statement underscored the deep connection between Lafoz's life and the ongoing struggles of the agricultural community.
Lafoz's tragic end has reignited public debate over the systemic pressures on small farmers in Spain, including bureaucratic hurdles, economic precarity, and mental health issues. His death has prompted urgent calls for policy reforms aimed at protecting the rural heartland and addressing the challenges faced by farmers.
