During an institutional speech for Canary Islands Day, under the motto "We are the Heritage of the Canary Islands," Clavijo appealed to pride of belonging and the defense of Canarian identity. He stressed that the citizenry, through their daily effort, is what truly sustains the land, beyond landscapes, traditions, or symbols.
The regional leader emphasized that Canarian identity is a force projected towards the future, particularly valuing the role of new generations who, despite expressing themselves with new languages, "continue to feel the Canary Islands as their own."
Clavijo dedicated a significant part of his address to the Canary Islands Awards and Gold Medals 2026, distinctions that, in his view, represent a plural and committed society. He recognized entities and individuals contributing to collective well-being in various fields such as culture, solidarity, sports, business, and the defense of social rights, reflecting a "diverse, innovative, and committed" Canary Islands.
With a message of confidence in the future, the president warned about the need to protect rights and strengthen social cohesion. "The Canary Islands have a future, yes, but if they remain the Canary Islands," he affirmed, insisting that its people and their capacity to build a "fairer and stronger" society constitute the main heritage.
The speech concluded with congratulations to the Canarian people and a reference to the song "Hijo de volcán" by Quevedo, paying homage to the "children of the volcanoes."
In his address, Clavijo also touched upon current challenges, including the complexities of the international context and the political situation in Spain, which hinder stability and governance. He highlighted the need for Europe to understand the reality of outermost regions like the Canary Islands, which seek justice, not privileges.
He pointed out that Canarian identity, far from being mere nostalgia, is a force that adapts to each generation, demonstrating that it is possible to be modern from one's roots and be part of the world without forgetting origins. He specifically mentioned the awardees, such as the MAÍN Canary Foundation, José Luis Padilla Morilla, Fernando Martín Menis, Braulio, Fernando Berge Royo, the Casa de Galicia in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Juan Espino Dieppa, Ron Arehucas, Pedro Zerolo, Ámate, Antonio López Bonillo, María del Carmen Almenara, the Canary Islands Colleges of Nursing, the In Corpore Sano Sports Club, and the Danza de las Cintas de Güímar, as examples of this living heritage.




