Carmen de Mairena

Carmen de Mairena (1933-2020) was a Spanish cabaret artist and trans activist known for her performances and outspoken personality. She resided for many years in the Raval neighborhood of Barcelona. Mairena died on March 22, 2020, at the age of 86, during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited attendance at her funeral. She was cremated. Six years after her death, Mairena is newsworthy because the Barcelona City Council has honored her memory with a commemorative plaque placed on the facade of her former residence on Sant Ramon Street in the Raval. This recognition has sparked debate, with some questioning whether she deserves such an honor compared to other figures like Salvador Dalí. Despite the controversy, the plaque highlights Mairena's cultural significance and her role as an advocate for trans rights.