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We need your help to stop the risk of violence in Chiapas, Mexico.
On July 8, the residents of the municipality of Pantelhó, Chiapas - including members of the Las Abejas de Acteal Civil Society, a historic human rights indigenous organization- reported receiving threats from organized criminal organizations that have been attempting to establish operations on indigenous land.
In recent days there have been armed clashes on the outskirts of Pantelhó and Chenalhó, Chiapas. [google satellite map links to these places to make it feel more real?] Local leaders have taken the decision to resist, making the case organizations must not be allowed to establish roots in their communities.
The conflict is raging approximately 2 kilometers from the Las Abejas de Acteal headquarters. Our partners in Mexico estimate that more than 120 members of the peaceful community have already been driven from their homes. Some have taken refuge in La Casa de la Memoria and La Esperanza and have no plans to return given the imminent risk of an armed attack. Other families have opted to stay in Penthaló. The situation is tense and very dangerous.
The Mexican Federal Government must act immediately to protect the lives of the inhabitants of Penthaló and maintain the rule of law.
To President Of Mexico, Andres Manuel López Obrador
Through this, the international community expresses its concern for the safety of the communities in Chiapas, particularly Penthaló, that, according to Civil Society organizations and media reports, is being subject to threats and intimidation from criminal organizations that put them at risk of a violent attack.
Penthaló is home for individuals like Simon Pedro (assassinated last July 8th in that same municipality) and organizations like Las Abejas de Acteal, that have worked tirelessly for peace in their region and now face the risk of extreme violence from the hands of criminal organizations seeking to dominate the region.
Please act with urgency to protect the residents of Penthaló. Stopping the criminal forces invading this zone of Chiapas is in the interest of all Mexicans, as is establishing the trust and stable conditions necessary for long-lasting peace in Chiapas.
Thank you for sending an email to AMLO's Deputy Secretary of Human Rights Mexico, Alejandro Encinas Rodríguez. Together, we can make a difference.
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If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at marco@globalexchange.org.
Thanks again for your support!