A New Day Dawns

Around the world, people are waiting with great expectation for the inauguration of a new U.S. President on Tuesday. Like me, many are hopeful that this will be the dawn of a new day for foreign policy and domestic harmony, even in the midst of great economic upheaval and looming questions.

For those committed to the cause of the Colombian people, we hope that our president-elect will stand for positive, civilian efforts toward building peace and ending impunity. We hope that he will honor the countless Colombians who stand up every day and raise their voices for justice, instead of giving the Medal of Freedom to a presidential counterpart who has proven unwilling to renounce and halt the use of state violence against his own people.

The changes underfoot have forced us to take a serious look at the foundations of our society. Will we stand for human rights above the claims of corporations? Will we seek peace based on dialogue instead of weapons and threats? Will we build a new economy that sustains the well-being of all creation, not just for people but for the whole planet, not just in our country but in Colombia and around the world?

As we look toward the dawning of this new day in history, one thing is certain. If this is to be a day of profound and lasting change, it will be based on a growing commitment of the people to be engaged in politics and the democratic process. We the people must stay informed and raise our voices each and every day if the promise of this new day is to be fulfilled.