Last week I was at the Olaso Tower in Bergara, in a talk about symbol acquisition.

Behind the symbols there is a story, and it is evident that the symbols we have before us – shields, flags, monoliths, street names… – tell the story that suits the empire.

It is not in the interests of the empire to tell the oppressed people: it is to lay its foundations. The oppressed people need their own story in order to move forward with dignity. It needs to decolonize.

Where were the Basques in the process of conquest? With the empire or as a resilient people? Well, both. After being pulled out of Navarra in conquest, many Basques participated in the imperial project of Spain. Some in America and others in Navarra. Within Navarre, with Beaumontese conquerors and agrammon resistance.

We do not, but most of the oppressed peoples of the empire have regained their independence, and are making their own way and their story. Coming to us hurts the symbols of empire, like Irala's. You are clear on the subject of conquest.

And us? Do we know that the cannons of Belate or the celebration of San Marcial do harm to those of Nafarroa Garaia? Do we know that we have been conquered? Are we building our story?

Fortunately, in Antzuola – the shield – in Arrasate – the street – and in Oñati – the flag – there are tweezers of light, for example.

We must also help to alleviate the pain caused by the conquest of America, always within our own account. Many Basques do, but do we Basques participate? Was it a project of our State? Were we (we are) Spain? Or are we subject to Spain (and France)?

So we are. We have a lot to learn from empowered Americans. We are aware of the need for a proper account!

Iñaki Idigoras Igartua