As my time in Cusco comes to end, I can’t help to think about how much this experience has changed my life. I never imagined that I would have the opportunity to visit Cusco, especially do such a impactful labor with Casa Acogida Mantay. I leave this experience with so much gratitude and hope to see a Peru with more equity. I put an emphasis on “equity,” since during my time in Cusco I realized that there’s so much work needed to be done in Peru.
Gender Violence is one of the many prevalent issues that have affected many women and young girls across the country. It continues to growth in fast rates due to the normalization of gender roles, misogyny, sexism, lack of mental health. In addition, the incosistency of the Peruvian Governement has contributed to the violence many young girls and women experience by restricting rural communities of quality education, sexual education, and medical centers. However, regardless all these adversities Casa Acogida Mantay has showed me that in every story, there’s resilience and willingness to construct a better future, a better Peru.
My perspective of how I viewed the world has changed. I feel more connected to my country due to the relationships I built during my time in Casa Acogida Mantay and to my interest of pursing a career in advocating for Gender Violence in Latin America. This has also guided me throughout my Capstone Project, which has helped me ask the correct questions as a way to dig deeper into my analysis.
I want to wholeheartedly thank Global Scholars, ONF, the Center of Human Rights Advancement, and the College of Social Sciences for guiding and funding me through this immersive opportunity. And to Mr. Oliver, Dr. Hicks, and Dr. Irigoyen, thank you for giving me a space to share my ideas and helping me make them a reality.
Lastly, thank you Casa Mantay for opening your doors to me and teaching me so much. I leave Cusco, Peru a completely different person.
Without you all, this wouldn’t had been possible, so thank you!
HSF House Blogs 