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'Send a message to Colombian authorities without delay.' - Warren (Smokey) Thomas.
Toronto (29 July 2010) - The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE) is calling on its members to support yet another activist in Columbia who has been threatened because of her work for human rights.
"OPSEU has learned from Amnesty International that on July 21 a shot was fired through a window into the office of Justicia y Vida (Justice and Life) where Colombian human rights activist Lilia Solano carries out her courageous work," the union says.
"Fortunately no one was hurt. OPSEU members and staff visited this office in August 2009 and met some of the women Lilia was assisting on a daily basis," it adds.
"On July 23, she received a phone call from someone who detailed her daily activities and accused her of being a traitor to her country and threatened that she would be killed."
OPSEU president Warren (Smokey) Thomas is calling on members to raise their voices to protect Lilia and her colleagues.
What can members do?
"Send a message to Colombian authorities without delay," Thomas says.
"Express concern about the threatening phone call and the shot fired at her office and ask for an immediate, impartial and thorough investigation to find the perpetrators and bring them to justice. Request that authorities immediately implement protection measures in consultation with Lilia and her colleagues. Ask for a reply regarding what steps have been taken."
OPSEU has published a full webpage of information and contacts for activists in Canada to use in joining the campaign. Please check the link below.
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE
More information:
• OPSEU - Call for Support for Threatened Colombian Activist
• NUPGE's Colombia Page