2.6 challenge for human rights in Colombia
Sara Chandler is raising money for Colombian Caravana
Participants: Charlotte Gill, Maika Jimenez, Cathy Evans Sara Chandler
Story
On Sunday 26 April, I am going to do 2.6 hours of non-stop dancing to fundraise for the Colombian Caravana. It won't be expertdancing, but I promise to dance not stop (or at least till I drop) We are a team dancing in our homes and will set up a Zoom at the start and the end of the time so you can keep an eye on me, laugh at me, or even join in for a bit! It's one way of keeping fit.
General fundraising has been hit very hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of fundraising events have been cancelled and many charities, particularly smaller ones, are struggling to maintain services because of this huge reduction in income. The Caravana has had to cancel or postpone at least three fundraisers so far and other summer plans are on hold as we all adjust to this new reality.
But our work doesn't stop. The Caravana is needed as much as ever. Home isn't the safe place it should be human rights lawyers at-risk. It means the normal protection strategies they have in place don't work - they can't change their location frequently or vary their route to work. We've even seen reports of protection of human rights defenders being taken away and scaled back despite the very high risk they face, especially now.
We want to scale up some of our work so we can support Colombian human rights lawyers through these really difficult times. If you chip in, as well as supporting our ongoing work, we will use your donation to:
- host virtual check-ins with lawyers at risk so we can act quickly on threats and make it clear the intentional community is still watching;
- respond quickly with urgent advocacy and legal interventions on cases that are crucial to achieving justice;
- provide a platform for Colombian lawyers at risk to share their stories in their own words and advocate for their better protection;
- hold virtual events so you can connect with Colombian lawyers, and we can increase our knowledge and understanding of the situation they are in and the current impact on justice in Colombia.
If you know me well, you'll know how much time I dedicate to the Caravana and how important it is to me. Finances are difficult at the moment, but if you can spare any money, please do, you know it will be well spent.
Thank you you very much for your support, and best wishes from Sara