Day of Remembrance for Truth and Justice 2024 (Argentina): Argentina observes the Day of Remembrance for Truth and Justice on March 24 to pay tribute to those who perished during the “Dirty War,” a period of state-sponsored violence. Argentinians observe this day, particularly those who lost loved ones during the military dictatorship that lasted from 1976 to 1983.
Protesters demand justice and additional investigations into the circumstances surrounding the disappearances and deaths of more than 30,000 individuals. The Argentinian government holds a commemorative celebration in recognition of the sacrifices made and to express its sincere restitution to the individuals who remain injured and unaccounted for.
Day of Remembrance for Truth and Justice History
On March 24, 1976, the military overthrew the Argentine government along with the current president, Isabel Perón. The country was placed under the command of Lt. General Rafaél Videla as a new national reorganization process commenced. It is common to refer to this period of governance as the “Dirty War” or “La Guerra Sucia.”
Throughout their reign, the military engaged in numerous acts of violent repression against more progressive citizens. Individuals or organizations deemed a threat to the ruling government were subject to persecution, such as Marxists, journalists, artists, students, and other political organizations. They prohibited periodicals, books, music, films, plays, and other plays that they deemed to be a threat to their rule. In a sudden turn of events, families who opposed this regulation had their children removed and placed with military families to raise them. Official estimates place the number of missing individuals at 30,000, but numerous estimates suggest the figure is significantly higher. It is difficult to obtain these figures because the military administration at the time destroyed all records.
After seven bloody years, democratic elections were conducted in Argentina, and the Dirty War came to an end. The enduring sorrow over the lost children, nevertheless, inspired the formation of Las Madres y Abuelas de Plaza de Mayo, also known as the Mothers and Grandmothers of the Plaza de Mayo. This organization, comprised of relatives of numerous war casualties, was outspoken in its pursuit of retribution for their cherished ones. Even though the new administration made some progress toward justice, the military commanders’ trials and punishments sowed unrest in a country that had already suffered greatly from the civil war.
As a result, despite the considerable endeavors of the authorities, numerous wrongdoers evaded punishment for their offenses. The mothers and grandmothers of the Plaza de Mayo found this intolerable and intensified their campaigns to obtain justice for the missing. They demonstrated in the streets while adorned with headscarves that bore the names of departed family members who had perished in the conflict. In 2006, the Argentinian government officially established a commemorative day to honor these victims, which continues to be observed to this day.
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FAQs regarding the Day of Remembrance: Truth and Justice
In Argentina, how is the Day of Remembrance for Truth and Justice observed?
Peaceful street marches and rallies are observed in Argentina, during which participants occasionally carry photographs of their comrades lost in the “Dirty War.” In addition, they unite with innumerable organizations and relatives of the vanished in their fight for justice on behalf of the victims.
What gives the conflict its moniker, the Dirty War?
The military junta instituted and employed the term “dirty war” themselves, asserting that warfare employing “different” approaches was indispensable for preserving social order and eliminating political subversives. A supposition arose during the 1985 Trial of These Juntas that the term in question functioned as a guise to masquerade as legitimate military operations to obscure gang and terrorist activities.
What action did Jorge Videla take?
The Dirty War began as a result of the Jorge Rafael Videla-led revolution that deposed Isabel Peron from the presidency in 1976. In 1985, he received a life sentence for homicide, illegal confinement, and additional human rights violations. However, in 1991, Argentine President Carlos Saul Menem granted him a pardon.
How does the 25th of May matter in Argentina?
‘Día de la Revolución de Mayo’ or the Anniversary of the First National Government is observed on May 25. According to the majority of people, it marks the establishment of Argentina’s first patriotic government. Today, in 1810, it was established under the colloquial name ‘Primera Junta.’
What additional significant holidays does Argentina observe?
Two of the most significant festivities in Argentina are Independence Day on July 9 and the Anniversary of the First National Government on May 25. Both are recognized as national holidays by the government.
How to Observe Truth and Justice Remembrance Day
A white handkerchief painted
As a symbol of state-sanctioned violence, the streets of Argentina are adorned with white handkerchiefs. You may apply Truth and Justice Day paint to a wall or floor with a white handkerchief.
View documentaries and films concerning the conflict.
Observe documentaries and feature-length films that depict the repercussions of the Dirty War. Commemorate this tragic period in Argentine history by organizing a special viewing party on this date.
Proclaim the word
An annual street demonstration takes place in Argentina, wherein individuals gather to demand superior human rights policies and an ongoing investigation into the issue at hand. One possible way to observe the day is to participate in the rallies or to advocate for the cessation of injustice.
Five intriguing details regarding the Dirty War
Perilous Flights
It was rumored that the military junta disposed of bodies by tossing them into bodies of water from aircraft.
The Locas
During their initial demonstrations, government officials attempted to devalue the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo by referring to them as “las locas” (madwomen).
The terror that transcends generations
In December 1977, to quell opposition to the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo, the Argentine government abducted and murdered one of the organization’s founders.
Anti-football demonstrations
The Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo capitalized on Argentina’s hosting of the 1978 World Cup by organizing protests at the event and obtaining international attention.
DNA Examination
Mary-Claire King, an American geneticist, contributed to the recovery of a number of the missing children through the development of a contentious technique involving the comparison of the mitochondrial DNA of bereaved parents with the DNA of their deceased children.
DAY OF REMEMBRANCE FOR TRUTH AND JUSTICE DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | March 24 | Sunday |
| 2025 | March 24 | Monday |
| 2026 | March 24 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | March 24 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | March 24 | Friday |
