Demand Justice for Disabled Protesters
For nearly 100 days, a group of physically disabled people in Bolivia have been protesting to demand a yearly subsidy of 3,000 Bolivianos (approximately 434 U.S. dollars).
When President Evo Morales responded by offering a one-time subsidy equivalent to 145 U.S. dollars, protest leaders rejected the offer and attempted to enter Murillo square, where the Presidential Palace and Parliament building are located. Police prevented protesters from entering the square by using tear gas, pepper spray, and electro-shock devices.
Act now to condemn the use of violence by police forces and to urge the President to meet the protesters requests for a yearly subsidy.
We the undersigned urge you to meet the requests of disabled Bolivians for an annual subsidy of 3,000 Bolivianos.
Further, we are concerned at the use of violent force, including tear gas, pepper spray, and electro-shock devices, to prevent protesters from entering Murillo square. We call on you to condemn such excessive use of force by police and to ensure that the people injured receive medical attention immediately.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
