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I met Veronica when we selected her to join Rise Up’s first cohort of Guatemalan leaders in 2009. As a young indigenous woman, Veronica was already dedicated to supporting indigenous girls in her community to stay in school. Over the last 10 years, Veronica has mobilized young women throughout Guatemala to rise up and fight for their dreams to create a more just and equitable country, including successfully advocating for a ban on child marriage. Veronica is not only inspiring the next generation of young women leaders, but she’s also inspiring her daughter, Melody.
“My mom, for me, is a super mom. Day by day I learn from her... She wants me to be more than she is, and I know that I’m going to show her,” says Melody. Melody is following in her mother’s footsteps, organizing young girls to raise their voices in their communities and beyond.
During this global pandemic, Veronica and Melody are using community radios and car megaphones to share prevention messages to keep girls and women safe in response to increased rates of gender-based violence. They are also encouraging people to stay home and remain positive in the face of this crisis — as Veronica says, “fear will not paralyze us.”
Veronica is a force — a dedicated and steadfast force for good who endures the tests of time and fluctuating political climates in Guatemala.
I am inspired by Veronica and the many mothers like her for their strength, commitment, and unwavering love. And I am grateful for the perseverance that my own mother taught me. As a proud mom of twin 8-year-old boys, I hope to pass those lessons on to my sons.
Today, we ask you to give in honor of a Mom in your life.
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