Rosa Hidalgo: A Journey of Activism from Mexico to Canada

Rosa Hidalgo, originally from Mexico, shares her profound journey as a human rights and environmental activist now residing in Canada.

With over six years in Canada, Rosa's activism began in Mexico, working with campesino and indigenous communities to defend rivers and lands from extractive projects. She explains how student movements sparked her activism during her college years, leading to community work and a deep involvement in human rights defense amid governmental repression and criminal influence in Veracruz.

Rosa’s transition to Canada was influenced by personal pressures and hostile conditions in Mexico due to her activism, initially planning a six-month stay which extended further.

In Canada, she joined the Committee of Human Rights for Latin America, continuing her advocacy work with pride and reinforcing grassroots efforts. Despite geographical change, Rosa feels deeply connected to her roots and focuses on providing crucial support to various human rights initiatives in Latin America, including working with artisanal miners in Northeast Antioquia and supporting people affected by state terrorism in Guatemala.

She further addresses systemic racism faced by Mexican immigrants in Canada and stresses the importance of technology in maintaining international solidarity. Rosa’s story is one of resilience, commitment, and an unwavering fight for justice, representing the struggles and contributions of women and immigrants in activism.