During the meeting, Mamdani not only applauded Spain's progressive social measures, but also honored the memory of the poet Federico García Lorca, using his work to contextualize current challenges and hopes.
Mamdani described Sánchez as a "defender of the working class" and a leader who "has restored faith in democracy worldwide." He specifically highlighted the increases in the minimum wage (SMI) under Sánchez's leadership, noting that it rose from 735 euros to 1,221 euros per month, representing a "61% increase." For the New York mayor, this measure "sends a very clear and forceful message to millions of people: your work matters, your effort matters, and your dignity matters."
The Mayor of New York also aligned himself with the "commitment to the dignity of working people" that has characterized Sánchez's government, mentioning the extension of paternity leave as another achievement. He also acknowledged other social advances in Spain, such as the ban on conversion therapies and tributes to "the victims of the reign of terror of (dictator Francisco Franco)."
An emotional moment in his speech was when Mamdani recited the poem 'Rider's Song' at the beginning. He recalled that this work was written by Federico García Lorca almost 90 years ago in New York, at a time when the world, "like now," was going through "moments of great darkness and upheaval." Mamdani emphasized that "García Lorca never hid his convictions" and "deeply believed in the possibility of a better world." He concluded his message by calling for action, asserting that "those of us in this room have the power to make that vision a reality."
This meeting, which also included the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, and the President of the European Council, António Costa, served as a platform to connect current progressive politics with the humanistic and social justice vision of historical figures like García Lorca.