Standing with the People
of Ellacuria
Submitted by Lisa Nimmer
Our recent delegate trip to Ellacuria was not only spiritual, but educational. We learned about the 1980’s civil war atrocities and the treatment of the poor. We visited museums and churches that did not whitewash the brutality and saw the church where Archbishop Oscar Romero was assassinated for defending the people. It was meaningful to celebrate the annual “return from the refugee camps” with our friends in Ellacuria and see their joy and thanksgiving to God.
We also learned that present-day El Salvador is on a slippery slope to repeating its past. A law called “The State of Exception” allows police to round up anyone who may have gang ties with no probable cause, and not provide due process. Human rights are again being violated under the guise of cracking down on crime and safety for all.
In February their elections were held, and President Bukele ran and won another term which was formally not allowed by their constitution. The people of Ellacuria are concerned about the future and need us to stand with them during this uncertain time. In a letter written to us by Antonio he writes, “We lament that this government doesn’t respect the human rights of our people, and we oppose a government who tramples on the constitution.”
I encourage us all to learn more about the issues and continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in Ellacuria.