American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese issued the following announcement on June 12
Companions in Pilgrimage Studies:
The Xacobeo Foundation of the Xunta de Galicia assembled a Working Group to plan for reopening the Camino de Santiago, now announced for July 1, 2020. Meeting in May and June, they formulated principles that should guide public officials and private enterprise in restoring services, safeguarding the health of travelers and their hosts, and preserving the spirit of this modern pilgrimage. The overarching drive during this time of transition is to cleave to solidarity, spirituality, hospitality, and a shared experience of mutual understanding.
The attached document was published in Galician and sketches guidelines and norms without detailing specific requirements for operations within Galicia. As always, other territories within and beyond the borders of Spain will formulate their own directives, hopefully consonant with Galicia’s lead.
There is an insistence on prompt notification of changes in conditions or pilgrim services through new digital apps, prohibiting unmonitored camping along the trails, enhanced public engagement with new safety measures, and earnest coordination with governmental and benevolent volunteer groups outside of Galicia.
In practical terms, this branch of Galicia’s Office of Culture and Tourism is concerned with re-energizing the service sector along the various Caminos that converge on Santiago. There is also a forward vision to modify plans for cultural events during the 2021 Holy Year.
Warmly
George D. Greenia
Emeritus, William & Mary
Original source can be found here.
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