A high-profile trial in Ciudad Real has concluded, drawing attention across Spain. The local court rejected a lawsuit filed by the organization ‘Christian Lawyers’ (Abogados Cristianos) against a booklet distributed among schoolchildren. The booklet, created for educational excursions to city hall, introduced students to various family models, including same-sex, international, and single-parent families.
The plaintiffs argued that the publication infringed on parents’ rights to set moral guidelines for their children and allegedly undermined traditional family values. They claimed the booklet was distributed without parental consent and did not mention the classic family model. However, the court found no grounds for these accusations, noting that the materials do not breach the principle of neutrality and are not contrary to the interests of children.
The court’s decision was met with a swift response. Municipal representatives saw it as a validation of their policy aimed at teaching students to respect different life situations. Authorities emphasized that modern society includes a variety of family forms and that no one has the right to impose a single model as the only correct one. According to officials, discontinuing such materials would mean ignoring reality and discriminating against many city residents.
The scandal over the booklet triggered political disputes within the city administration. After the publication was distributed to sixth-grade students, one of the parties, formerly part of the coalition, left the city government. This led to a reshuffle in leadership and a shift in the balance of power. Nevertheless, city officials refused to back down and did not withdraw the booklet from circulation, despite pressure and threats to break the coalition agreements.
The court ruling was final: no appeal is allowed, and the plaintiffs are required to cover court costs. City authorities reiterated their commitment to the principles of inclusivity and respect for every resident, regardless of their family type. In their view, only this approach can create a society where everyone feels accepted and protected.
