Family members seeking justice for innocent victims of arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances during the state of exception in El Salvador.Justice Funder Initiative
Cristosal is an internationally recognized human rights organization dedicated to defending democracy, advocating for justice, and providing protection assistance to victims of human rights violations in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.
The Current Critical Moment
Resurgent autocracy, mass human rights violations, and corruption directly impact the lives, freedoms and security of Central Americans and are drivers of forced migration through Mesoamerica. Today, hundreds of families that have suffered torture, extrajudicial killings, trafficking, hate crimes, political persecution and crimes against humanity have placed their trust in Cristosal for legal assistance and protection as they courageously seek justice and rebuild their lives.
At this critical moment, cuts to United States foreign assistance have forced major reductions in our programing. The end of US foreign assistance for democracy and human rights work is a symptom of a changing geopolitical landscape where it is unclear what institutions, and global powers will back financially and institutionally human rights advocacy.
Now, more than ever, we cannot depend on governments to fund critical human rights work- this work must be sustained by a movement of people who share the conviction that respect for human rights and dignity is the foundation of peace and security for all people.
The Justice Funders Initiative is an opportunity to ally directly with the people who suffer the loss of freedom and are courageously struggling for justice and to join a community of donors, networkers, and advocates to build financial and political support to sustain Cristosal’s work in Central America.
Programmatic Objectives:
Provide high-quality, rights-based legal representation to victims seeking justice or facing persecution
Empower individuals and communities to actively participate in legal advocacy and justice-seeking efforts.
Seek truth about human rights violations and corruption through forensic investigation and case documentation.
Raise public awareness about due process rights and judicial independence through strategic communications.
Develop skills and technical specialization for human rights professionals who accompany victims and survivors’ struggle for truth and justice.
The Justice Funders is more than just a funding effort—it’s a movement.
Together, we will:
Leverage our networks to bring in new allies and resources.
Strengthen relationships among like-minded advocates dedicated to human rights.
Demonstrate the power of collective giving to sustain justice efforts even under authoritarian regimes.
Learn and grow together through personal updates, online and in-person gatherings, and direct engagement with key staff on strategy and mission.
How You Can Help:
Make a gift today and a multi-year commitment to continue your support: Every contribution, no matter the size, strengthens our mission.
Connect Us: Help us expand our network by introducing Cristosal to individuals, philanthropic foundations, and organizations who share our vision of justice and accountability.
Make Introductions: Connect us with individuals, funders or organizations that share the same values through a personal introduction via email or in-person meeting.
Host a Gathering: Organize a small event, such as a lunch-and-learn, or an informal coffee chat, to share about our work with potential supporters.
Invite Us to Speak: Arrange an opportunity for us to present at a professional network, university, faith community, or philanthropy group.
Supporting this initiative will sustain a growing program to document abuses, protect victims and drive legal action against human rights violations, corruption in Central America by seeking justice for victims, holding leaders accountable, and challenging unconstitutional reforms.