In defense of democracy: solidarity with the people of Jujuy

As we commemorate 40 years of uninterrupted democracy, it is worth pausing to reflect on its quality and its current challenges. In Argentina, we have said NEVER AGAIN, and the events unfolding in the province of Jujuy cannot go unnoticed. Demonstrating and petitioning the authorities are enshrined in our constitution, and social protest within this framework is a right. The forms of repression seen during this time are unacceptable, and it is even more unacceptable that there are attempts to legislate against existing guarantees. Democracy cannot be sustained through coercion and violence. Democracy is the power of all those who express themselves, those who defend themselves against oppression, and those who, among other things, protect the environment by preventing the establishment of new extractive industries like lithium mining.

The people of Jujuy are demonstrating their commitment to democracy and the defense of freedoms. It is essential to acknowledge the crucial role of teachers in this process, alongside other actors such as the Indigenous communities. They did not waver in their demands; they mobilized without being intimidated, setting an example of autonomy and conviction.

From the CLACSO Working Group on anti-patriarchal struggles, families, genders, diversities and citizenship We stand in solidarity with them, supporting the urgent need to defend democracy and its freedoms. We pledge to continue monitoring and denouncing any advances by neoconservative and right-wing powers that threaten what has been achieved in recent decades. Therefore, we condemn the brutal repression that took place in the Province of Jujuy, Argentina, and we are working to restore peace, hoping that the government will reinstate the necessary dialogue and return to democratic means of conflict resolution.

From our respective spaces, we will continue our daily work of addressing human rights, fighting against violence, and defending the environment. We take this opportunity to keep the memory alive and explicitly demand justice for all femicides in Argentina and around the world. This includes the murder of Cecilia in the Province of Chaco and the murders of all women who, like her, await truth and justice.

We ask for respect for the pain of their families and we protest against oversimplifications of the events and against any attempt to manipulate or exploit these situations for political gain. Today, more than ever, we point the finger at Argentina's classist and discretionary judiciary. Therefore, we reaffirm the need for a feminist judicial reform that guarantees transparency, efficiency, and sensitivity to structural inequalities. It is within this framework that these crimes can be effectively clarified and ethically addressed. What has happened is yet another warning sign for Latin America.

We register this complaint as part of the anti-patriarchal struggles of our America.

June 21th, 2023
CLACSO Working Group
Anti-patriarchal struggles, families, genders, diversities and citizenship

This text expresses the position of CLACSO Working Group on anti-patriarchal struggles, families, genders, diversities and citizenship and not necessarily that of the centers and institutions that make up the CLACSO international network, its Steering Committee or its Executive Secretariat.