Norma Cruz facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Norma Cruz
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Nationality | Guatemalan |
| Occupation | Human rights activist |
| Organization | Foundation Sobrevivientes |
| Awards | International Women of Courage Award (2009) Chevalier of the Legion of Honor (2011) |
Norma Angélica Cruz Córdova is a brave Guatemalan human rights activist. She is well-known for her important work helping women who have experienced violence.
Contents
Norma Cruz: A Champion for Women
Her Important Work
Norma Cruz is a dedicated human rights defender. She leads an organization called the Fundación Sobrevivientes (Survivors' Foundation). This group is based in Guatemala City and helps women. It started on July 3, 1996.
Helping Survivors
The Survivors' Foundation gives "emotional, social, and legal support" to many women. These women are seeking justice and protection. For example, in 2007, her foundation helped find and bring to justice 30 people. These individuals were accused of serious crimes against women. The organization also runs a safe shelter for victims. This is one of the few shelters like it in Guatemala. The foundation also works to protect mothers whose babies are taken illegally. This is part of a harmful system for international adoptions.
In Spring 2011, a theater group in Boston called the American Repertory Theater honored Norma Cruz. They dedicated their play Prometheus Bound to her and seven other activists. They said this play aimed to give a voice to those who are being silenced.
Facing Challenges
Since May 2009, Norma Cruz has received many threats. These threats have come through text messages and phone calls. Her family has also reported receiving threats. The Guatemalan government has given her police protection. However, the threats have continued. Because of this, Amnesty International called her work a "priority case" in 2011. In March 2011, the offices of her organization were damaged. This happened during an attack with a Molotov cocktail. Luckily, no one was hurt in the attack.
Awards and Recognition
In 2009, the US Department of State honored Norma Cruz. They named her an International Woman of Courage. They stated that Cruz is "an inspiration and symbol of courage and hope." She inspires women in Guatemala and everywhere else. She received this award from US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. First Lady Michelle Obama was also there.
See also
In Spanish: Norma Cruz para niños
