At the end of the last century, the streets of Spanish cities were fraught with fear: a heroin and HIV epidemic was tearing families apart, while the government was slow to respond. In the Madrid district of Entrevías, a group of women decided they could no longer remain silent. They united under the name ‘Madres contra la Droga’ (Mothers Against Drugs) and began a fight that would change not only their own lives, but the fate of thousands more.
In the 1980s and 1990s, their movement grew to include hundreds of women. Women from all over the country donned scarves and pins with a crossed-out syringe, held rallies, and demanded change. Their goal was simple yet desperate: to save their children from drugs and deadly diseases. They not only supported one another, but also fought for changes in the law so that young addicts would get help instead of prison sentences.
A legacy of struggle: from fighting drugs to providing social support
Decades later, only eight of the original activists remain. But their determination is undiminished. Today, these women—now in their 70s and even 90s—continue to help those on the margins of society. In the three apartments they once secured for youth rehabilitation, migrants and families in difficult situations now find shelter.
Each of them has taken responsibility for specific individuals: some help a family awaiting legalization, others support a father and daughter or a mother with three children. Their assistance goes beyond material aid — they accompany people to court, participate in advocacy campaigns for asylum, and help their wards adapt to life in a new country. Their doors are always open to those in need of support.
Women’s solidarity and new challenges
Over the years, their activism has grown even broader. Now, they fight not only against drug trafficking but also against discrimination, stigma, and poverty. Their center continues to be a gathering place where people share meals, discuss problems, and seek solutions together. The women are not afraid to take to the streets when it comes to defending migrants’ rights or protesting social injustice.
Looking back, they talk about overcoming guilt, learning to stand up for themselves, and refusing to let anyone blame mothers for their children’s mistakes. They are united by experiences of loss and pain, but even more so by a determination to prevent future tragedies. Many have become guardians to grandchildren orphaned by drugs and continue to care for the next generations.
Remembering the past and looking ahead
For these women, the fight was never just personal. They staged protests outside courthouses, ministries, and even cathedrals to draw attention to the plight of prisoners and their families. Thanks to their persistence, Spain introduced a National Drug Control Plan, established support centers for addicts, and changed laws on early release for sick inmates.
Today, their efforts go far beyond helping those with addiction. They support children from Roma and Romanian communities in accessing education, provide breakfast, and assist families in need. Their home is a place where anyone can find support, advice, and warmth.
A legacy and inspiration for new generations
The stories of these eight women are a reminder of how much civic initiative can achieve. Their example inspires not only their neighbors but also those facing hardships today. They do not seek gratitude or fame—they simply keep doing what they believe is right.
In Madrid, they are known as the “activist grandmothers,” but to many, they have become true guardian angels. Their lives are a lesson in courage, solidarity, and belief in change. Even decades after their struggle began, they remain hopeful and continue to support those in the most difficult situations.
