The atmosphere was far from festive for the opening of the Viña del Mar festival, Sunday February 23 in Chile. Many protesters took to the streets to demand its cancellation. "Viña del Mar is one of the richest municipalities in the country. However, 68% of its population lives below the poverty line," rebels Andras Saldias, spokesperson for the feminist coordination 8M.
For protesters, this event is a symbol of the country's social inequalities. During the day, at least eight vehicles were set on fire and 23 police officers injured.
"If they want to stop me, let them stop me!"
The revolt movement continued during the festival. A performance was particularly talked about: that of the engaged singer Mon Laferte. The 36-year-old artist went up on stage with a sign bearing the inscription: "Resist in the street". During her show, she alluded to a summons which had been sent to her by the police in November and which she had not attended. "If they want to stop me, let them stop me!" She said. The crowd replied: "You are not alone, you are not alone!"
The public quickly broke into comments against the police and President Sebastián Piñera. The show turned to anti-government protest.
New clashes between protesters and police took place after the concert at Quinta Vergara, the large park in which the festival takes place until February 28. Police made 19 arrests.
For the past four months, Chile has been shaken by an unprecedented social movement against social inequalities. Since the start of the movement, 31 people have died, and numerous rampages and fires have taken place.
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