Colombia Peace Under Attack

FOR’s Colombia Program has experienced series of crises and opportunities in the last six weeks – and we want you to know about them and have a chance to respond with your financial and active support.

On June 2, FOR’s Bogotá office was raided and vandalized. Two computers containing confidential information on FOR’s work with the Peace Community of San José de Apartadó were stolen, potentially putting the lives of Peace Community members at risk. Given three other recent break-ins and thefts of computers from human rights and peace organizations, the political motivation behind this attack is obvious.

Thirty-six Members of Congress last week wrote to Colombian President Alvaro Uribe, urging a complete investigation and public denunciation of the series of break-ins. (To see their letter, click here (PDF).) But so far Colombia’s political leadership has not publicly denounced the attacks. On the contrary, they are on record suggesting that human rights groups are linked to terrorists.

On Friday, July 13 those working for peace in Colombia suffered another setback. Dairo Torres, a leader in the San José de Apartadó Peace Community, was shot and killed by two gunmen who were known to have made threats against the Peace Community and its members. Moments before the shooting, the same two men were seen conversing with Colombian police. He leaves behind a wife and three children. For more on this tragic event and what you can do, click here.

Today, FOR’s report of testimonies by Colombian women, “I Will Never Be Silenced,” is being launched on Capitol Hill in Washington with a briefing by seven Colombian women leaders. This 40-page booklet includes testimonies gathered by FOR, from 13 diverse Colombian women who face the violence of war and home with strength, dignity and action.

We have found the presence of trained international peace workers to be a deterrent to army, paramilitary and guerrilla attacks. Our presence provides our Colombian brothers and sisters with greater visibility and international security. Please help us to support and strengthen our Colombian partners to continue their work for peace.

Specifically, we need to raise at least $3,500. This will enable our team to restore the Colombian office, accompany the Peace Community of San José de Apartadó, Medellin Youth Network, Antioquia Peasant Association and others, and continue to contribute to the movement to demilitarize U.S. policy in Colombia.

For those giving $75 or more to meet to help us meet this urgent need, we will send you a complimentary copy of I Will Never Be Silenced: Testimonies of Hope from Colombian Women.

You may donate online or send checks payable to the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR), 521 No. Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960. Please write “Colombia” on the memo line.

Thank you.