This was stated by Antony J. Blinken, US Secretary of State, when highlighting Mayerlis Agarita’s role, a Colombian from Montes de Maria, in the International Women's Day commemoration.

Mayerlis Agarita’s work, a forced disappearance and other armed conflict events victim, was recognized by the United States Government. This happened during a virtual State Department ceremony celebrating the International Awards for Women of Courage (IWOC).

A group of exceptional women from all over the world were honored, mainly for their fight to defend population’s rights in their countries of origin. The First Lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, delivered a speech acknowledging their accomplishments.

"Mayerlis Angarita has been instrumental in the impplementation of the Peace Accord in Colombia. Her relentless engagement has brought Government and civil society groups together to stop violence and narcotraffic," said Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State.

For his part, and speaking about Mayerlis, United States Ambassador to Colombia, Philip S. Goldberg, affirmed that she “is a powerful advocate for her community and for the protection of women leaders nationwide. With each victory achieved by brave leaders like Mayerlis, Colombia grows stronger and takes a step away from violent conflict and toward lasting peace. Nothing makes us prouder than standing beside her, a Woman of Courage.”

After receiving international recognition, Mayerlis Angarita replied: “If I were born again and somebody asks me If I wanted to be a defender again, I would not hesitate. Seeing women who are consumed in a victimizing state, and then, after one or two years, to be able to see them as rights’ subjects, empowered with their businesses and their children, that is the best satisfaction you can have serving.”

(End/YUM/COG/RAM)