Healing for Sexual Violence Survivors in Colombia

Last month, MADRE and Taller de Vida (TdV) honored the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination by uplifting the voices of Indigenous and Afro-Colombian girls and young women through a virtual call to action, which we are pleased to share with you in the link below. In their testimonials, youth activists shared their experiences with racial injustice, stigma, and other challenges they face as Afro-Descendant and Indigenous girls and young women and how they are working to confront structural discrimination and inequality in their marginalized communities.

For example, Andrea, an Afro-Descendant girl who participates in TdV’s youth programming, told the story of the time she overheard a woman ask community pool staff, in reference to Andrea, why Afro-descendent Colombians are allowed to swim in the same area as white Colombians. After participating in TdV’s human rights trainings and self-esteem-building activities, Andrea had the confidence to confront the pool-goer and staff member about the racist comment. However, Andrea left the community pool feeling racially discriminated against and questioning why her skin color might bar her access to a community space all youth should be able to enjoy. With TdV’s support, Andrea continues to call for an end to discrimination in solidarity with her peers Luisa, Leidy, Anna Celly, and Yurleisy so that girls and other youth can live a life free of the stigma they experience.

With your support, MADRE and TdV are fostering a generation of Indigenous and Afro-Colombian girls who are ready to combat discrimination, reclaim their human rights, and build a more peaceful future.

Links:

• Click Here to Watch Taller de Vida's Call to Action