- Thursday, 09 Sep 2010.
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08.05.09 Colombian journalists speak on human rights
On Thursday 7 May two female journalists, representatives of Reporteros de Colombia, who work on the frontline in Colombia, visited the College to talk to students about life as a journalist in the conflict-ridden country.
The journalists face danger of death and kidnap daily, as they attempt to uncover the truth of Colombian army, paramilitary and guerrilla operations and speak out on behalf of those caught up in the fighting.
Mary Luz Avendaño, who was kidnapped by the FARC in 1998, outlined to students the difficulties faced by journalists and the local people in the continuing conflict. Many people, especially women and children, have been forced to flee their homes due to the fighting between guerrilla groups, paramilitaries and the army and many now live in poverty in shantytowns on the outskirts of cities.
Rocio Castañeda, coordinator of the Colombian Reporters project, explained how they are making efforts to preserve the credibility of Colombian Journalism and trying to equip journalists with the tools to pursue their profession in hostile and dangerous circumstances.
Students of Religious Studies, Law, Philosophy, Sociology and Media Studies were among those present and asked many questions about the issues arising from the presentation. A2 student Jhon Ramirez, a Colombian now living in Cardiff, said "It's good that journalists are informing local people in Colombia as well as the international community about the problems. We need to show more support for the people." Peter Thomas reflected "It's so wrong that the people are caught up in the conflict between the military and paramilitary groups." Meanwhile Jesse Sandhu commented, "It is good to hear journalists who are able to speak out freely here about social justice when there seems to be no freedom of the press in their own country. It's good to raise awareness about these things."
The visit of the journalists was coordinated between the college and CAFOD (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development). This event was aimed at raising awareness and support for peace and justice in Colombia as part of CAFOD Wales' Colombia Solidarity Link.
Pictured (l-r) Rocio Castañeda, Mary Luz Avendaño, Jhon Ramirez, Jesse Sandhu, and Peter Thomas.
