The Peace Movement in Mexico: Efforts to bring justice to the victims of violence in the country

The Mexico Institute and WOLA were glad to present a discussion on the current state of narco-violence in Mexico with renowned Mexican poet Javier Sicilia and members of his Movement for Peace with Justice and Dignity in Mexico.

In the midst of the drug-related violence that has resulted in over 50,000 deaths since 2006, Mexican civil society has begun to mobilize as an energized peace movement and thousands have marched across Mexico to demand an end to the violence, a change in security policy and justice for the victims.  On October 14, the Peace Movement held its second meeting with Mexican President Calderon and members of his cabinet to discuss the proposals they have developed on issues such as security and human rights, attention to victims, and citizen participation.

This event was an opportunity to learn more about the Peace Movement, its work to give voice to the victims of violence in the country and its dialogue with the Mexican government to discuss ways to end the violence in Mexico and bring justice to the victims.

Along with Javier Sicilia, we were happy to host Emilio Álvarez-Icaza, human rights defender and co-ounder of the Movement for Peace with Justice and Dignity in Mexico.