Before talking about how Catholic social teaching could bring about change within Colombia, it is crucial to understand the status of everyday civilians as well as church officials. Considering that the official religion of Colombia prior to the 1991 constitution was Roman Catholic, it is easy to see why the majority of the population share this faith. Although they state that they do believe in God, Colombia has no stated religion, and those involved in the drug trafficking would like it to remain that way (Compassion). Having a set religion, means having guidelines to live by, and these guidelines go directly against the drug trade since it gives them morals to live by. Although the Catholic Church is trying to bring about change within Colombia with faith and hope, they first need to work on eliminating the fear that everyone has.
Living in fear is what many Colombians are accustomed to doing everyday. They live in fear of their crops being destroyed by poison, their families being kidnapped or murdered, and having no money to sustain themselves (Driver). Neither side of this war cares about the civilian population and will use it to their advantage when need be, but this is not even this biggest issue. The biggest problem is not that the people don't have faith either, but that their faith cannot be properly exposed simply because they could die for it. A mother will not stand up to a man with a gun if her children are in danger, and that is what most people have to deal with. Those who stand up for what they believe in are the enemy, and the enemies of these paramilitary and guerrilla groups pay the ultimate price(Compassion). And those who are supposed to be on their side will kill them if they even have the slightest inkling that they could be remotely guilty.
So what could be done to help? Many people immediately think, "Well the US is pouring so much money into helping Colombia". What is not understood is that much of the money the US is using is being used to help pay for the war to continue (Driver). The US is not tracking their money to make sure it goes to help the people, they just give it to the unstable government and call it a day. What really needs to be done, especially by the Catholic Church in Colombia, is a lead by example. It's all well and good that there are many different organizations out there trying to help, but in the end it won't have a lasting affect if the people cannot stand up for themselves. The Church and her officials need to stand up to the armed forces, the government, and anyone else who is involved. They should not take up arms and join the war effort of course, but if people see that the Church can stand up for themselves knowing that there could be fatal repercussions, then they will too.
"Colombia Facts." Colombia Facts. Compassion. Web. 16 May 2012.
I disagree with your post, because if there are armed rebels and cartels willing to kill anyone to take their land or that get them out of the way of their trade, then there is no way to keep people from fearing that. People anywhere would fear gunshots or a group of rebel soldiers walking into town. I do agree though with your statements about the money the U.S gives in support. The money is given for surveillance and protection, instead of being used to help those in danger or affected by the warfare resulting from the drug trade.
ReplyDeleteThis post correctly highlights the dangers faced by Church officials and supporters, and the reasons why the Church needs to lead by example. However, in essence, the Church is doing this with programs such as “Peace is Possible” that try to instill hope in the minds of Colombians. But to agree with your comment, the Church must purge itself of any corrupt officials that are involved in the drug trade and political conflict. These people would not be setting a good example for the people if members of the faith they adhere to were involved in the conflict that is making them suffer. This being said, I do not completely agree with people being in danger simply because they are Catholic. In a country that is 80% Catholic, it is obvious that members of the drug trade may be Catholics themselves. Although they may be hypocritical in their morals, they are not being killed simply because they are Catholic. They are only in danger if they attempt to stop the drug trade.
ReplyDeleteWhile I agree that fear is a major feeling of the people that prohibits the elimination of the drug trade in Colombia, I do not agree that if the Church took a stand, which I believe they are already doing through their efforts and programs like Catholic Relief Services, that it would make as big of a difference as you are implying. The Church is already taking a stand and leading by example; what has to be done is not simply this, for people are still living in fear even with the Church's opposition of the drug trade. Your post is correct in highlighting the fear the people have and the reasons why action needs to be taken and someone has to stand strong against the illegal trade; however, although it would be a good step, I do not believe it would produce any lasting effects.
ReplyDeleteOf course, it is not simply because they are Catholic that people within Colombia are being persecuted. I simply highlighted this fact, while also saying that those who actually follow their morals and go against the drug trade are in danger. Simultaneously, it should also be realized that the Church should blatantly go against the drug trade and try to stop it, even though would put them in danger. Also, I agree that there is some good being done by these programs and organizations, I simply do not think it is enough. Colombians need not only these programs, but strong leaders that can stand up against the drug trade not only within the Church, but also within the government.
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