Survivors Lead Historic Advocacy Event in Guatemala City

This month, for the first time ever, survivors of violence led a public advocacy event in one of the busiest public spaces in Guatemala City: the downtown.

Their message was clear and urgent: protect women and children from violence, end impunity, and demand justice.

Organised entirely by members of Mi Historia Importa (My Story Matters), IJM’s Guatemalan survivor chapter, the event marked a powerful shift – from silence to action. Every detail was coordinated by women who have experienced violence themselves: securing sponsorships, managing logistics, and leading the programme.

Karla Salazar, a volunteer and member of the Coordinating Team, shared: "Advocacy is important to Mi Historia Importa because we want to bring about change. It means turning the pain of our women, children, girls, and adolescents into action. We want to find action plans that bring justice to each of these stories – justice to my story."

Survivor member Eunice García added: "Advocacy helps us recognise that we can speak up. Even though we were taught that we must remain silent, My Story Matters teaches us that we have a voice." 

The gathering also honoured the victims of Guatemala’s most emblematic cases of violence and abuse – stories of femicide that shook the nation and exposed deep cracks in the justice system. Survivors called for transformation, inviting others to join a growing movement rooted in courage and hope.

This milestone event signals a new era in Guatemala: one where survivors lead the charge for justice, healing, and systemic reform – with IJM standing alongside them in support.

Learn more about how survivors and IJM are confronting violence against women and children. Their courage, combined with long-term support and aftercare, is paving the way for lasting change.

Learn more about our work to stop violence against women and children >>