http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/02/world/iyw-guatemala-gender-violence/
The article begins with the story of Adelma Cifuentes, who suffered through domestic violence for over 12 years. One day, as the abuse progressed, two men came to her home and were ordered to kill her by her husband. Cifuentes was able to survive due to her two sons pulling her to safety after the first shot. However, the abuse did not end there. When she returned home, Cifuentes’ husband continued his attacks and threatened to rape their little girl unless she left, which sparked the journey for justice and change.
Although Cifuentes’ case is dramatic, in Guatemala, almost 10 out of every 100,000 women are killed due to gender based violence. The country of Guatemala ranks third in the killings of women world-wide. According to the United Nations, two women are killed there every day. The Mexican drug cartels play an immense role in the rate of violence directed towards women within the country.
However, despite the culture of oppression that is directed towards women in Guatemala, there are rays of hope and change that is slowly taking place. The topic of gender based violence is slowly losing its taboo meanings with the help of organizations such as, Centro de Investigación and Abriendo Oportunidades. These organizations are helping to direct power back towards women whose voice was lost within the violence that has been a part of their daily living. With the continual support from organizations and the United Nations, there is the possibility of hope and change for the vulnerable women of Guatemala.
Question: How do you guys believe that domestic abuse issues in other countries can be faced, despite cultural norms and traditions that essentially direct paths towards gender-based violence?