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Congress: Speak up for environmental defenders facing unjust persecution in El Salvador!
On January 11, 2023, five community leaders and environmental defenders were arrested in the rural community of Santa Marta, including leaders from the Economic and Social Development Association of El Salvador (ADES) who were at the forefront of the successful grassroots struggle to ban gold mining in 2017.
The Attorney General is accusing them - without evidence - of a crime that allegedly took place during El Salvador's Civil War
The community of Santa Marta’s long history of organization and the outstanding work of ADES - to fight for social transformation, defense of territories, and human rights - has inspired strong ties of international solidarity for more than four decades.
Once a trial was finally held in October 2024, an independent tribunal acquitted them of all charges. International observers described the process as transparent and fair.
But the Attorney General continues his persecution. Just after the right-wing legislature overturned the mining ban in December, the Attorney General is RE-TRYING the Santa Marta 5 (on the same charges!) on February 3, which the community has said amounts to "double jeopardy"
The community is urgently calling for international eye on this upcoming trial, including from elected officials.
Send an email to your Representative and Senators & urge them to speak out now!
Congress: Speak up for environmental defenders being unjustly persecuted in El Salvador!
Congress: Speak up for environmental defenders facing unjust persecution in El Salvador!
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