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| Graphic by Jaciello |
FAHE HO ITA - On the 25th of September 1999, the tranquil municipality of
Lautém in East Timor bore witness to a harrowing chapter that would forever
leave a profound mark on the collective memory of its people. This sorrowful
incident unfolded shortly after the historic Popular Consultation held on the
30th of August 1999, signifying a pivotal juncture in the annals of East
Timor's history.
Led by Joni Marques, a prominent member of the pro-integration militia ALFA, a group of nine individuals perpetrated a heinous act of violence that claimed the lives of numerous innocent souls, thereby casting a somber shadow over the nascent aspirations of this fledgling nation.
This tragedy would claim the lives of distinguished members
of the clergy, including Mother Erminia Cazzaniga, Mother Celeste de Carvalho,
Brother Jacinto Xavier, Brother Fernando dos Santos, and Seminarian Valerio da
Conceição. Among the victims were other individuals, notably Indonesian
journalist Agus Mulyawan, as well as Cristovão Rudy Barreto and Titi Sandora
Lopes, who were accompanying the clergy on their journey. Tragically, eight
others, including Izinho Freitás Amaral, met a similar fate in the same fateful
location.
Reports from that mournful day suggest that Mother Erminia
was targeted during her moments of prayer. Joni Marques, the leader of the
group, purportedly acted on information that indicated the Catholic Church's
support for East Timor's quest for independence, which subsequently led to the
brutal and devastating massacre.
🗺️ Explore the massacre site on
the Google Map
Reflecting on this heart-wrenching episode, it is incumbent
upon us to pay tribute to the indomitable spirits of those who laid down their
lives in the pursuit of justice and freedom. The sacrifices made by these
valiant individuals stand as an enduring testament to the adversities endured
by the people of Timor in their unyielding struggle for self-determination.
To the families and loved ones left behind, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences. The anguish of losing someone to such gratuitous violence is beyond measure, and we honor your unwavering strength in the face of insurmountable grief. May the cherished memories of your departed loved ones serve as a wellspring of fortitude and inspiration as we continue to labor for a more equitable and serene world.
This tragic episode serves as a poignant reminder of the
cruelty inherent in warfare, and it prompts us to contemplate the ongoing
conflicts in our world, such as those in Ukraine, Israel and Palestine, and
other inhumane wars. As we remember the sacrifices of those in East Timor, we
should also reflect on the broader implications of senseless violence in our
contemporary global landscape.
To the generations yet to come, let this sorrowful episode
serve as a poignant lesson in the resilience of the human spirit and an
unwavering commitment to upholding the dignity of all. In the ceaseless pursuit
of justice and freedom, let us never forget the sacrifices borne by those who
came before us. May their bravery and unwavering commitment illuminate our path
as we work steadfastly toward the realization of a world where such grievous
atrocities are but distant echoes in the annals of history.
Adapted source: Timor-Leste's war history.
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May all your souls rest in most eternal peace 🙏😔🫡
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