Francisco Guarido, the only IU mayor in Spain, has publicly criticized the outdated language and dress codes in the Casa Real’s invitation to the National Day reception. His response reignites debate over protocol and inclusion at official royal events.
Francisco Guarido, mayor of Zamora and the only IU city leader in Spain, got an invitation from the Casa Real for the National Day reception at the Royal Palace. He did not just accept it. Guarido used the moment to call out what he sees as old-fashioned and exclusionary rules in the royal invitation.
He did not mince words. Guarido objected to the phrase inviting public officials “and their lady.” He said this ignores the reality of different relationships and personal lives. “It would be just as valid to say ‘and their gentleman,’” he said. “But really, spouses are unnecessary in this kind of invitation.” For Guarido, the language is not only outdated. It does not fit the society Spain has become.
According to several independent Spanish media, the invitation sent to Guarido also included the name of his companion, and in one report, a possible error in his wife's surname was noted, which contributed to the local press attention.
He also took aim at the dress code. The invitation tells “gentlemen” to wear a dark suit and “ladies” to wear a short dress. Guarido called this “completely outdated.” He said these strict gender rules belong in the past. His message was clear: “I am a republican and will not lift a finger to improve the image of the Monarchy.”
This is not the first time Guarido has spoken out. Ten years ago, he made the same points to the Casa Real. He called the event’s protocol “discriminatory” for its gendered dress code and exclusionary language. The latest invitation shows little has changed.
His public stand comes as Spain debates inclusion and representation in public life. Royal events still use etiquette from the 1800s. That stands out in a country where social norms have moved on. As earlier reporting showed, even the monarchy’s public appearances can spark debate about tradition and identity.
Multiple Spanish outlets confirm that Guarido is the only Izquierda Unida mayor currently governing in Spain, which adds a distinct political dimension to his criticism of the royal protocol.
Guarido’s challenge is not just personal. It shows that the symbols and rituals of power can be questioned. When official language falls behind real life, the gap is obvious. The Casa Real’s refusal to update its invitations may seem small. But in Spain, where public institutions face constant scrutiny, these details matter. Guarido’s move shows how even small gestures can reveal the distance between tradition and the people it claims to represent.
