Nicaragua is in crisis. What initially began as peaceful protests has evolved into countrywide conflicts between unarmed civilians and government paramilitary forces. Sparked by constitutional changes to consolidate power and eliminate political competition along with some of the most rampant and widespread corruption in the region, the people finally had enough when Ortega let precious ecological sites burn down rather than accept help from neighboring countries and imposed controversial social security reforms. More than 100 people, including children, have died since anti-government protests began six weeks ago, several hundred have disappeared and over 1,000 have been injured. Private sector, civil society and activists have banned together to remain steadfast in their demands for justice and the restoration of democratic institutions. Violence has broken out throughout the country. The economy is now at a standstill. Local businesses are being forced to shut their doors and communities are being thrown into despair as tourism has ceased and violence reigns. As in times of civil unrest, women are bearing a disproportionate burden of violent threats.

JOIN US in calling on international government leaders, members of the U.S. Congress and Senate, and multi-national corporate executives to raise their voices on behalf of the Nicaraguan people.