The human rights record of the current Honduran government is deplorable. Since President Lobo came to power after the 2009 coup d’état, political violence has continued unabated and those responsible have acted with impunity. The present government has been found guilty of multiple atrocities, including abuse of the media, arbitrary detentions and the excessive use of force. Despite calls from activists and human rights groups to end military aid to the Honduran government, the US government continues to provide more than $18 million a year to the Honduran military and police.
Representative Hank Johnson of Georgia recently proposed the Berta Cáceres Human Rights in Honduras Act (HR 5474) in honor of the slain environmental and indigenous leader. This legislation would suspend U.S. funding to the Republic of Honduras for their police and military operations, including funds for equipment and training, until the Honduran government stops the police and military from violating citizens’ human rights. We fully support Representative Johnson’s proposed legislation and demand an immediate end to US military aid to the Honduran military and police.
Dear Congressperson,
Since the coup in 2009, the Honduran government has oppressed and intimidated its own citizens with impunity. Despite a long record of human rights abuses, the US government still sends the Honduran government $18 million a year in military aid. We find this completely unacceptable.
Representative Hank Johnson of Georgia recently proposed the Berta Cáceres Human Rights in Honduras Act (HR 5474) in honor of the slain environmental and indigenous leader. This legislation would end all US aid to the Honduran military and police until the Honduran government ends it human rights violations. We, the undersigned, do not want our tax dollars to strengthen these oppressive institutions and wholeheartedly support Representative Johnson’s proposed legislation. We ask for your support and co-sponsorship on HR 5474.
We thank you for your consideration and look forward to creating meaningful change.
Signed,
CODEPINK and allies
