“The people refuse to die at the hands of the extractive corporate empire and the government that promotes and protects it,” Juan López said. He was a leader of UUSC’s partner Fundación San Alonso Rodriguez (FSAR) in Tocoa, Colón, and a steward of environmental justice. He was targeted by state and corporate powers and assassinated on September 14, 2024.
López was murdered for his defense of Guapinol and the San Pedro Rivers Along with fellow river defenders, he fought to end illegal extractive mining. He and his peers were awarded the 2019 Letelier-Moffitt Human Rights Award for their advocacy. In his acceptance speech on behalf of the group, López said, “Long live the hope and rebellion of the communities who are the true owners of the award that we are receiving today.”
Juan López expected that the hope and rebellion of the Guapinol community would outlive him, but he could not have known how soon it would have to do so. Fundación San Alonso Rodriguez and movement leaders deeply mourn the barbaric murder of López and the loss of his vibrant leadership. As we approach the anniversary of his assassination, UUSC recommits to fighting for justice for López and the Guapinol community.
The Tocoa coalition fighting for justice has identified several ways our members can act in solidarity with their campaign for judicial action:
1. Share Juan’s story and a message of solidarity
Save this graphic and share it with your networks. Pair it with this article to spread awareness.
2. Encourage your faith community to participate in this year’s Guest at Your Table program
Since 1975, Guest at Your Table (GAYT) has connected Unitarian Universalists to UUSC partners working to advance human rights. Participants receive stories, videos, and worship materials that profile movement leaders. This year, GAYT has a feature on Juan López and Fundación San Alonso Rodriguez. GAYT is designed for all ages and connects communities while making a meaningful impact. Talk to your congregation’s leaders and learn more here.
3. Stay informed of judicial updates on the Guapinol Resiste blog
The fight for justice and accountability is ongoing. Stay informed of the latest developments and ways you can act in solidarity by reading the Guapinol Resiste blog or following them on social media.
While we mourn the senseless loss of López, may we also take action to tend to the growth of his liberatory vision. “We dream of a world free of violence, free of drug trafficking, free of corruption and empire-” López proclaimed. “Empire that imposes exploitation, poverty, misery, and war in the name of democracy and freedom…Wake up humanity, there is no more time!”
