Jennifer Clement writes to Miroslava Breach Velducea - Day of the Imprisoned Writer 2018

Jennifer Clement | Miroslava Breach Velducea

Dear Miroslava,

This is not an easy letter to write as you will never read these words.

Last year, on 23rd March 2017, you were shot eight times as you left your home - one of six journalists killed in Mexico in 2017.

Mexico is the most dangerous place in the world to be a print journalist. Aware of this fact, you continued to write and to expose that which demanded to remain hidden. You pursued truth, and for that you paid an unacceptable price.

No one has been charged with your murder. There has been no justice. In 2018 another five journalists have been killed in Mexico, and the year is not finished yet.

I want you to know that at PEN, we will continue to work to bring an end to impunity, violence, and the persecution of writers and journalists. We will campaign to bring change to countries such as Mexico, where journalists today face great risk. We will never forget your determination and courage.

Jennifer Clement