Dear John,
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all those who attended WOLA’s 50th anniversary Gala last week. And especially to those who gave generously, investing in WOLA’s future. Those of you who were unable to attend were sorely missed.
Democracy is backsliding in Latin America and every day human rights defenders are risking their lives to speak out against violence in their communities. That is why this year we honored Venezuelan organization PROVEA, as well as the Collectives of Family Members of the Disappeared in Guanajuato, Mexico. We also honored Senator Patrick Leahy for his lifelong commitment to human rights and democracy in the Americas.
This year we worked with the international press to elevate the issues our honorees are fighting for. Thanks to an interview with Bibiana Mendoza, Olimpia Montoya and Verónica Durán, the crisis of the 116,000 disappeared in Mexico was featured in dozens of news articles across Mexico including Forbes Mexico and Arístegui Noticias, the outlet of renowned investigative journalist Carmen Arístegui. Meanwhile, PROVEA’s courage in investigating human rights violations in Venezuela was featured in El Nacional, one of the country’s leading newspapers. And there is still more coverage to come.
This week’s newsletter features a heart wrenching 8 minute video about the work of our Mexican honorees and special greetings from Senator Leahy as well as Mexican actor, Diego Luna. Photos of our Gala can be viewed and downloaded below.
If you would like to make a donation to support WOLA’s next 50 years, it is not too late.
Thank you again for your unwavering support.
