Madrid evicts family with Down syndrome child despite UN plea

A family with five children, including a baby with Down syndrome, lost their home in Madrid on Tuesday despite a last-minute plea from the United Nations. The eviction went ahead as police removed protesters who had gathered to block the operation. Herminio and Dulce had lived in the social housing apartment in the El Ruedo complex for five years. They have three minor children, and the youngest has Down syndrome with special needs that require a stable routine. This was the second attempt to evict them in one month. “You should be proud of the work you are doing! Leaving five children on the street is shameful. You have no conscience or heart!” Herminio shouted at the eight police officers forming a cordon. He left the home in tears. Neighbors formed a human chain to block the entrance. Police dragged some away, and others argued with officers. Around 50 people gathered in support, including local activists and residents. The day before the eviction, a UN committee sent a letter to the Spanish government. It asked authorities to stop the eviction or offer the family a suitable alternative home. The family’s supporters had contacted the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child to report their situation. The only offer from the regional government was a single room in a shared apartment. The family refused this option. “A room is not a solution for a large family,” said José, Dulce’s brother. A court authorized the eviction on May 21, stating the family was occupying the home illegally. Dulce and Herminio did not have a rental contract. Neighbors said they had tried many times to negotiate a social rent agreement. The Madrid City Council said its social services offered the family temporary accommodation, but they rejected it. The family’s supporters said the offer was just a bed in the living room of Dulce’s mother. Now the family must split up and stay with relatives. “At least until someone listens to the UN,” Herminio said.