Dear John,
This has been a particularly difficult week for those of us who champion human rights and democratic values across the Americas. The escalating rhetoric maligning NGOs has reached alarming new heights, signaling a broader assault on civil society that could have profound implications not just across Latin America, but here in the United States as well.
This week also brought news of a second military strike on another boat in the south of the Caribbean Sea, further underscoring the deteriorating situation and the urgent need for international attention and action. These incidents remind us why our work remains so critical—and why we cannot waver in our commitment to the rule of law.
At WOLA, due process, democracy, and human rights remain central tenets of everything we do. No matter how challenging the political landscape becomes, we will continue to fight tirelessly to maintain and defend these foundational principles.
Despite these dark moments, our work continues. This week, we announced the recipients of WOLA's 2025 Human Rights Award: MOVIR (Movimiento de Victimas del Regimen) of El Salvador and Senator Tim Kaine. Both honorees exemplify the courage and dedication needed to advance human rights and democratic governance in these trying times.
This year, we've adapted our recognition of these extraordinary champions by transforming our traditional gala into a full month of content and programming. In a moment that demands flexibility and innovation, we're changing our approach to fit the times, ensuring that our message reaches further and our impact grows deeper.
In times like these, we must draw strength from one another. The attacks on civil society, the erosion of democratic norms, and the challenges facing human rights defenders across our hemisphere require us to stand together with renewed determination. We will need to lean on each other—our shared values, our collective expertise, and our unified commitment to justice—to navigate the road ahead.
Your support has never been more crucial. As we face these unprecedented challenges, we need the resources to continue our advocacy, research, and coalition-building work. I urge you to make a donation today to help WOLA continue defending human rights and democracy when they need it most. Every contribution, no matter the size, strengthens our ability to stand up to authoritarianism, support civil society under attack, and advocate for the vulnerable communities who depend on our voice.
In solidarity,
