Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the Jesuit Martyrs
November 16, 2019 marks 30 years since the murder of six Jesuit priests, their housekeeper, and the housekeeper's daughter at the University of Central America in El Salvador. The sacrifices of martyrs Ignacio Ellacuría, S.J., Ignacio Martín-Baró, S.J., Segundo Montes, S.J., Juan Ramón Moreno, S.J., Joaquín López y López, S.J., Amando López, S.J. and housekeeper Elba Ramos, and her 15 year-old daughter Celina Ramos have shaped Jesuit education, Ignatian organizations, and likewise, Alpha Sigma Nu. Since 1989, Jesuit schools have become more mission-focused and driven to activism on social justice issues because of this terrible moment in history. All across the Jesuit and Ignatian family, commemorations of the UCA martyrs are filling websites, classrooms, and inspiring events. The Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice run by Ignatian Solidarity Network will take place this weekend in Washington, D.C.. This popular, annual event is filled to capacity and will highlight the fight for justice that cost the eight martyrs their lives in 1989. Importantly, it will also focus attention on social justice issues that we must fight today.
There are many resources to learn more about the Jesuit Martyrs and their impact.