In August, Loretta traveled to Hermosillo, Mexico to accompany PODER as they commemorated the 10th anniversary of a toxic oil spill in the Rio Sonora. The oil spill is, unfortunately, considered the worst mining-related disaster in the country’s history. Through a series of events, PODER united the community and challenged Grupo Mexico, the mining company that caused the oil spill, along with the local government that continues to back the company.
PODER organized a festival which consisted of musical and puppeteer acts, in addition to providing a space for local vendors and organizations to sell their products and explain the importance of the community’s right to clean water. PODER was pleased with the turnout of the festival, which drew many families.
Additionally, a few days after the cultural and music festival, PODER held an event for the press in front of Hermosillo’s judicial office, in which they unveiled an “anti-statue” meant to be a bold statement against the actions of Grupo Mexico and the government. Not only did the anti-statue send a strong message, but the organization also projected messages demanding that Grupo Mexico and the government take accountability and bring about remedy, and gave space for local human rights defenders to speak their piece.