Santiago Maldonado

Santiago Maldonado: The Missing Mapuche Activist

Timeline of Events

On August 1, 2017, Santiago Maldonado, a 28-year-old Mapuche activist, went missing in Argentina. He had been participating in a protest against the eviction of Mapuche communities from their ancestral lands. On August 17, 2017, Maldonado's body was found in the Chubut River. The autopsy revealed that he had drowned, but the cause of his death remains unknown.

Investigation and Controversy

The investigation into Maldonado's death has been marred by controversy. The Argentine government has been accused of covering up the truth about what happened to Maldonado. In 2018, a federal court ruled that Maldonado's death was a "forced disappearance" and ordered the government to investigate the case. However, the government has not yet complied with the court's order. The case remains open, and Maldonado's family continues to demand justice.

The Mapuche People

The Mapuche are an indigenous people who live in southern Chile and Argentina. They have a long history of resistance to colonization and have been fighting for their land rights for centuries. In recent years, the Mapuche have faced increasing repression from the Argentine government. In 2017, the government passed a law that criminalized Mapuche protests. The Mapuche are a proud and resilient people who are fighting for their rights. Maldonado's death is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for indigenous rights in Argentina.

What Can You Do?

There are many things you can do to help the Mapuche people: * Learn about the Mapuche and their history. * Support Mapuche organizations. * Speak out against the repression of the Mapuche people. * Boycott companies that profit from the destruction of Mapuche lands. You can also help by donating to organizations that are working to support the Mapuche people: * The Mapuche Nation * The Indigenous Environmental Network * The Rainforest Action Network

Conclusion

Santiago Maldonado's death is a tragedy that should not be forgotten. We must continue to demand justice for Maldonado and for all indigenous people who are fighting for their rights.