Re: The murder of Griselda Tirado Evangelio and the safety of her family
To: Governor of Puebla Lic. Melquiades Morales Flores Gobernador del Estado de Puebla
From: Jenna Virk, LRWC
Date: 2003-08-25
We have become aware of a situation about which we feel sure that you would wish to be informed, so that you can direct the appropriate government officials to take prompt actions in keeping with the Constitution, laws and international legal obligations of the Republic of Mexico.
We are concerned for the safety of Griselda Tirado Evangelio’s family. Ms. Evangelio was murdered on August 11, 2003. Five days later, unknown perpetrators attempted a forcible entry into the Evangelio home, which was unsuccessful. Given that the person responsible for the murder of Griselda Evangelio has not been caught, LRWC fears for the lives of her family. We urge the government of Mexico to take immediate action to ensure the safety of these men, women and children.
We trust that you will take immediate measures to guarantee the safety of Griselda Evangelio’s family, as well as to all persons who are exercising their rights and duties as human rights workers. We also trust that you will call for an immediate, full and impartial investigation into the threats and intimidation against the Evangelio family, as well as a full investigation into the killing of Griselda Evangelio.
We feel confident that your office will take these and all other necessary steps to ensure that the Republic of Mexico complies with both the letter and spirit of the UN Declaration on the Rights and Responsibilities of Individuals, Groups and Institutions to Promote and Protect Universally Recognised Human Rights and Fundamental Liberties. This Declaration recognizes the legitimacy of the activities of human rights defenders and their right to carry out their activities without any restrictions or fear of reprisals.
We would greatly appreciate your government’s response to LRWC by mail, email or fax in response to these matters and of all the actions taken by your government to ensure that these individuals are granted the protection of the law in accordance with your country’s international obligations. We look forward to hearing from you at the earliest possible time.
