Cristosal, an Episcopal-affiliated organization dedicated to human rights in Central America, was forced to terminate its humanitarian aid program and cut staff due to the recent U.S. foreign aid freeze. The organization had been providing essential services to 1,600 internally displaced individuals, ensuring their safety and legal support amidst crises driven by violence and political turmoil. Noah Bullock, Cristosal’s executive director in El Salvador, emphasized that the reduction in legal assistance threatens the safety of human rights defenders and the justice of those they serve.
Founded in 2000 through a partnership between clergy from El Salvador and the U.S., Cristosal has grown into an independent nonprofit, broadening its reach to Guatemala and Honduras. Over the past two years, it has aided over 7,500 people affected by violence in the Northern Triangle. Bullock noted the critical role of family networks for those fleeing violence, highlighting that without humanitarian support, victims face dire choices between home violence and dangers along migration routes.
The U.S. foreign aid freeze, part of President Trump’s initial executive actions, paused over $60 billion in funding to evaluate its alignment with U.S. policy goals. This funding withdrawal has severely impacted grassroots organizations dedicated to helping migrants and vulnerable populations in Latin America. Cristosal, recognized for its leadership in human rights defense, faced drastic staff reductions, laying off 70% of its workforce in the region since Trump took office.
Cristosal’s mission involves not just assisting the displaced but also providing legal support for those whose human rights have been violated. The organization has documented extensive human rights abuses in El Salvador, particularly amid President Bukele’s state of emergency, which limits citizen rights and allows arrests without due process. Bullock recounted evidence of torture and extrajudicial killings within the prison system, stressing the firm’s commitment to representing families affected by such violations.
Despite the U.S. funding cuts, Cristosal continues to receive support from private philanthropic organizations and Episcopal churches, crucial for maintaining its vital services. Bullock articulated the organization’s priorities amidst this crisis, focusing on legal support for victims of egregious abuses. He underscored the importance of unrestricted donations from the Episcopal community, which allows Cristosal to swiftly address emerging human rights challenges and fill financial voids.
Cristosal, an Episcopal-affiliated organization, has had to end its humanitarian aid program and cut staff due to the U.S. foreign aid freeze. This organization aided 1,600 displaced individuals and has fought against human rights violations in Central America. Despite the cuts, Cristosal remains committed to its mission with support from private donors and continues to advocate for victims of violence.
In conclusion, Cristosal, an Episcopal organization in Central America, has been critically impacted by the U.S. foreign aid freeze, forcing staff cuts and the cessation of its humanitarian services. The organization plays a vital role in supporting internally displaced people and human rights defenders amidst rising violence and political instability. Despite funding challenges, Cristosal continues to rely on private donations and philanthropic support to fight for justice and document human rights violations in the region.
Original Source: episcopalnewsservice.org
