Pro-life group in Mexico offers aid to domestic violence victims

Mexico City, Mexico, Jun 8, 2020 / 17:42 pm

With reports of domestic violence on the rise during the coronavirus lockdown in Mexico, one pro-life platform is offering women help, shelter and legal advice.

Linda Rebolledo, the coordinator and spokeswoman for La Vida Por Delante (Life Going Forward), lamented that during the lockdown to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic, "unfortunately domestic violence has increased against women, [including] women with an unwanted pregnancy [and] women in vulnerable situations."

Various organizations have estimated an increase in reports of violence against women ranging from 30% to 70% during the coronavirus lockdown, which began March 23 in Mexico.

Rebolledo told ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish language news partner, that Life Going Forward "is dedicated to supporting all women in vulnerable situations," so they can feel "safe and supported."

Women in Mexico experiencing any type of violence or abuse can contact the pro-life platform via its website (www.lavidapordelante.mx), WhatsApp (52 553 677 8518) or by phone (01 800 6853 777).

The pro-life group can connect women in need with shelter, medical specialists, psychological support, and legal advice.

Through the different organizations linked to Life Going Forward, women can also get job training "so that they can get a job and not depend financially on the person who's abusing them," Rebolledo said.

She emphasized that "no woman should be violated in any way, not psychologically, mentally, or financially--much less physically or sexually." She encouraged women in abusive situations to seek help.

In addition, the order only allowed only businesses deemed essential to remain open. The coronavirus lockdown in Mexico was originally set to end April 30, but the government extended it to May 31.

Starting May 18, some parts of the country have begun the gradual reopening of the economy and social activities.

According to Johns Hopkins University statistics, Mexico has reported more than 113,000 cases of COVID-19 and more than 13,500 deaths.

This article was originally published by our sister agency, ACI Prensa. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.