Saturday, August 4, 2007

Femicide

Femicide for us is a term we have learned on this trip. It refers to the murders of women as a result of domestic violence. The killer can be a husband, a sweetheart, a boyfriend, a significant other, or a family member, but is usually a male the woman knows well.

Today we had the opportunity to attend and participate in a rally for women´s rights in Osorno. We were able to see the shoes representing the 38 Chilean women who have been murdered since January of this year. We were able to see the tears and anguish of loved ones and friends of these women. Most of those who participated were women, but there were a few men present who support women´s rights. The most emotional time of the rally was when 38 candles were lit and the names, ages, dates, causes of death, and locations were read by 38 individuals, including some of us. For us, this is accompaniment at its fullest.

Our awareness of the tragedy of domestic abuse has been heightened in the last several days. We realize more fully just how international this problem is. It isn´t just a problem for one person, one town, one country, or one socioeconomic group. Femicide is a term that applies to domestic violence in all countries, including the U.S.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Linda, I've been keeping up on what's is happening. You'll sure have some great stories to tell us. Get those recipes!! Hope you are well and we miss you. Janice

Anonymous said...

P.S. We had Red Hats today and everyone ask about you. You missed our first musical performance. Joke!! What kind of weather are you having? J

Anonymous said...

HEllo!!!J