For 2024, my fundraising initiative is for the strategic litigation arm of Cristosal. I am matching donations again this year up to $10,000, with an end goal of reaching $20,000.

El Mozote and surrounding areas was the site of the largest massacre in contemporary history of the Americas. Nearly one thousand unarmed civilians, including more than 500 children, were killed in El Mozote and surrounding areas in 1981 by the Salvadoran armed forces who were trained and supported by the US.

This cycle of violence and impunity has deep roots in the history of the region. After El Salvador’s 12-year civil war in the 1980s, a general amnesty law was passed that protected perpetrators of war crimes. This law embodies a widespread attitude that crimes will not be punished and victims do not matter. Success in strategic and emblematic cases helps restore credibility to today’s Salvadoran justice system. It can send a powerful message about truth and justice across the continent.

Victims of violence and human rights violations in the countries of northern Central America have serious difficulties in accessing justice. Judicial systems do not ensure dignified and respectful treatment or adequate information for victims. They are also inefficient in meeting the obligations of investigation, prosecution, and reparation. The three countries have some of the highest impunity rates in the world.

Strategic litigation is an effective tool for protecting human rights and improving the system in favor of human rights because it allows victims and their advocates to challenge unjust laws, policies, and practices, and hold government officials and other powerful actors accountable for their actions.

Whether you're able to donate or not, please take a moment to learn more about the work being done by the courageous staff of Cristosal. Visit https://cristosal.org/EN/mozote-massacre/, or, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. Thank you to everyone who has already donated, and very grateful for this to be shared.

Love to all,

Stephen, Steve, SJ

Cristosal Strategic Litigation Initiative

By Cristosal

Cristosal Strategic Litigation Initiative

Board Member, Steve Adams