Thousands gather in Barcelona to celebrate Catalonia day, which brings independence to the forefront. This year, the Carles Puigdemont camp is at the heart of the parades, as the votes of the seven deputies in his JxCat party could make the difference in national elections later this year. Puigdemont has demanded amnesty for Catalonian separatist leaders -- who face legal action over a 2017 referendum -- in exchange for their support. "It seems to me a wonderful irony" says one of those rallying, "that Spain... depends on these votes". However, many stand against potential negotiations with the national government, fearing concessions will be made, ultimately damaging the independence cause. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES