Dear Tanenbaum Community,
On August 22, we recognize the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, a reminder of the lives lost and the ongoing acts of violence rooted in religious intolerance.
Through our Peacebuilding program, we honor courageous individuals who, despite violence and persecution, remain dedicated to advancing peace and reconciliation. Their resilience inspires our mission to build cultures of respect and understanding, both in the U.S. and around the world.
This year, we are proud to share an article by our Peacebuilding Intern, Audrey Maize, who interviewed Tanenbaum Peacemaker in Action, Ricardo Esquivia Balletas.
For decades, Ricardo has worked in the Montes de María region of Colombia, where armed conflict, narcotrafficking, and state neglect have left rural communities vulnerable. Through his organization, Sembrandopaz, Ricardo builds networks of resilience, empowers citizens to claim their civic rights, and pursues peace, even when doing so has made him a target.
His story is a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to seek justice in the face of violence, and of the truth at the heart of his mission: “Peace is the fruit of justice.”
Please find the full article here!
As we reflect on this day, may Ricardo’s work, and the work of peace activists worldwide, remind us that honoring victims also means uplifting the voices of those who continue the struggle for justice, dignity, and peace.
Warmly,
Rev. Mark Fowler, CEO, Tanenbaum, and the Peacebuilding Team