On June 3, 2017, Luna Ortiz, an 18-year-old girl, was murdered in Benavidez, Tigre. Marisa Rodriguez, the victim's mother, recounted how events have unfolded since then and how it has been for her to cope with the loss of her daughter and seek justice.
Marisa expressed her profound pain by describing the helplessness she feels facing the fact that Luna's alleged killer, Isaias Villareal, strolls freely through her neighborhood, defying the restrictions imposed by the justice system. She lamented the fact that the restraining order is not enforced, which causes her distress and sadness.
Regarding the mobilizations and marches for women's rights and against gender violence, Marisa acknowledged her desire to join them, but health issues prevent her. However, her support and solidarity with the women who continue in this fight are unwavering.
Remembering Luna, Marisa shared how her daughter gave her a new perspective on the struggle for women's rights, even when she herself did not initially share those convictions. Luna's mother revealed how her daughter's presence remains a source of inspiration and companionship in her absence, and how the gender violence Luna suffered marked both of their lives.
The nuances of the trial for Luna's murder revealed chilling details about the young woman's tragic fate. Despite compelling evidence being presented, the Argentine justice system failed to convict the guilty party, leading Marisa to raise her voice and seek justice at the international level, turning to the Inter-American Court.
Finally, Marisa recalled the anguish of the days following Luna's murder when she demanded her daughter's body and received it prepared for the wake. This tragic episode has marked Marisa's life and strengthened her determination to fight for Luna's memory and for all women who have suffered gender violence.
