Bishop Añoveros' 1974 Homily on Basque Rights Under Franco

Añoveros' 1974 Homily on Basque Rights

Introduction: The Bishop and the Context

This text discusses a homily by Fernando Añoveros, a bishop from Biscay who held religious authority. The subject is the 'Basque problem,' referring to the suppression of Basque culture, language, and media under General Franco's dictatorship. This religious homily was delivered on February 24, 1974, shortly after the assassination of Carrero Blanco.

Franco's Dictatorship and the Basque Country

The imposition of Franco's dictatorship in the Basque Country meant the end of all freedom and self-government for the region. Franco distinguished between the Basque territories based on their stance during the Spanish Civil War:

• Loyal Provinces: Álava and Navarre, which had supported Franco.
• Traitor Provinces: Gipuzkoa and Biscay, which had supported the Republic and opposed Franco.

The economic situation also varied; the coastal provinces were the most industrialized, and the economic situation was particularly significant in the Basque Country compared to other regions, as they were among the most developed areas.

The Church's Shifting Stance Under Franco

Initially, after the establishment of the dictatorial regime, the Church hierarchy supported Franco, and Franco supported the Church hierarchy. However, not all priests agreed with Franco's policies. Many felt the situation of workers was unfair and objected to censorship. They began advocating for changes, demanding better conditions for workers not only in the Basque Country but across Spain. Some clergy, like Bishop Añoveros in the Basque Country, also specifically called for the recognition of the region's cultural values.

Añoveros' Defense of Basque Culture and Language

In his homily, Añoveros addressed the Basque problem directly. He highlighted that while many Basque citizens felt the state denied their culture and language, others were indifferent. Añoveros argued that the Basque people were not truly free due to the censorship of their language. He also mentioned restrictions on other cultural aspects, such as education and media. Regarding the Church's role in politics and social issues, Añoveros believed the Church could not tell the government what to do but could offer advice in order to improve coexistence.

Consequences of the Añoveros Homily

The speech provoked a strong reaction from the regime. Franco intended to imprison Añoveros, leading to tense discussions with the Vatican. Ultimately, Añoveros was sentenced to house arrest. This incident significantly deteriorated relations between the Vatican and the Franco regime. It marked a shift in the Church's position: instead of passively agreeing with everything Franco dictated, segments of the Church began actively opposing infringements on citizens' freedoms and injustices. The Church played an increasing role in the opposition movement against the dictatorship, supporting other groups that challenged Franco's rule.