Andalusia already has the eternal memory of an incalculable work of great value. It is a tribute to professionalism, unity and commitment, as well as helping others. Today, it closes the cycle in Seville. Andalusian capital is eighth and final city where the Association of Andalusian Marble Entrepreneurs and the Andalusian Government inaugurate the iconic sculpture-tribute health workers and professionals who fought and continue to fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. 19. Jesus Posadas (the president of AEMA) and representatives from the companies involved in the project were present at today’s opening ceremony. They were joined by Juanma Moreno (the president of Junta de Andalucia), and Jesus Aguirre, the minister of Health and Families. Representatives of the State Security Forces and Bodies were also present, as well as other academic, health, civil and military authorities.
The Junta de Andalucia, to AEMA, requested the initiative. It consisted of the donation and the creation of eight sculptures that were shaped in White Macael marble. What started as an idea and proposal by the Andalusian government>>, -Remembered Jesus Posadas in his speech at the event -, became a reality because of the valuable contribution of the sculptor Navarro Arteaga who created the clay model used as a reference for stone carvings. President thanked the sculptor and the Association of Andalusian Marble Entrepreneurs for their support during times of uncertainty in the industry. They also gave stone and helped to create these sculptures. This was a task in the Fines Marble School participated as well.
During his speech, President of Andalusian Marble Businessmen, reflected upon the terrible test this pandemic has left us with: “The value of unity and compassion, community responsibility, and gratitude.” These four important values are reflected in the sculpture’s white marble>>. Posadas addressed all groups who inspired this project by placing the sculpture in all capitals of Andalusia. Andalusian health workers: Those of you who have faced the worst fear, that of falling, and were able to cause your loved ones to fall. But, yet, you have shown professionalism and will. THANK YOU FOR RIDING as the waves came, and THANK YOU FOR GOING ON. These people deserve this recognition as well as the epidemiologists, researchers and clinical microbiologists. Their stories are less known but their immense responsibility during the pandemic meant that they had to work irregular hours and endure a lot of personal and professional wear. Scientists were key to the development of vaccines. They also helped to make everything seem a little less normal. We are grateful to volunteers for their valuable work. We are thankful for the families of the victims, who provide support and encouragement that allows us to continue our efforts. And we are grateful to Jesus Aguirre (Minister of Health and Families), for taking on the responsibility for all Andalusians. Today is the last day I will stand behind this lectern to say thank you. But, I will continue to do so>>.
AEMA’s president has stated that he considers it an honor to leave the symbol of struggle, along with the seal of Macael Brand, and the guarantee of its knowhow in the capital city of all Andalusians. He stated that “We will not be content with the victoryalism of believing that everything is done, but we will continue to celebrate and also take responsibility for learning from crises that great opportunities can arise to improve and change things.
