Commemoration of the Martyrs of Central and South America Each year, a line of white crosses is placed on Loyola's Academic Quad in memory of the martyrs of Central and South America, honoring those who have been killed because of their faith and their commitment to standing up for the rights of those who are voiceless. Twenty years ago, six members of the Jesuit faculty at the University of Central America were violently murdered by military forces in El Salvador on November 16. These men were priests, steadfast in their faith; men of truth, committed to peace and justice for the poor. Alongside them, the Jesuits’ housekeeper and her daughter were killed; two Salvadoran women who represent the thousands of innocent casualties in the struggle against injustice, violence and oppression. We also remember the three religious sisters and one laywoman who were murdered, raped, and mutilated on December 2, 1980. These American women dedicated their lives providing food, transportation and other assistance to the people who were marginalized in El Salvador. If you would like to learn more, come on November 16 at 7pm to the Chapel to "Remembering Our Martyrs from El Salvador," a commemoration which will include an educational video clip about the martyrs’ lives and the circumstances in El Salvador, as well as a reflective tribute to honor these men and women. Since November 16 is the 20th anniversary of the death of the Jesuits martyrs, Loyola will be remembering them alongside many other Jesuit schools worldwide. Six of our very own Jesuits will represent those killed in El Salvador: Fr. Linnane, Fr. Jack, Fr. Brown, Fr. McDermott, Fr. Connor, and Fr. Donahue. Anne and Marie McSweeney will represent the housekeeper and the daughter who also died innocent deaths alongside the Jesuits. In addition, two Maryknoll sisters from the Baltimore community and CCSJ staff members Sr. Catherine (Missy) Gugerty and Margarita Dubocq will represent the Four Churchwomen. Earlier on November 16, there will be a Mass at 12:10pm dedicated to the Martyrs. Furthermore, during the month of November, we will be showing a Just Art Exhibit in Cohn Hall. This exhibit is dedicated to these Martyrs and the thousands of others who have been killed or disappeared in Central and South America. Come see it soon! As you cross the Quad this month, please remember the individuals whose lives have been given in sacrifice for the freedom and liberation of the people of Central and South America. “Those who make an option for the poor must be prepared to
share the same fate as the poor."
- Archbishop Oscar Romero 
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