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Latin America and the US Left in the Era of Human Rights Wildcat

Alexander Blair

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Published in Solidarity: Latin America And The US Left In The Era Of Human Rights (Wildcat)

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The era of Human Rights Wildcat, spanning from the mid-1960s to the early 1980s, marked a period of intense political upheaval and social transformation in Latin America. This article aims to explore the complex relationship between Latin America and the US Left during this period, examining the ideological affinities, common struggles, and tensions that characterized their interactions.

The Human Rights Wildcat era witnessed a surge in human rights activism across Latin America. Governments in the region faced increasing pressure to respect basic human rights as international scrutiny grew. The United States, with its strong rhetoric on human rights, played a significant role in shaping this discourse, often using it as a tool to advance its own foreign policy objectives.

The US Left, influenced by the civil rights movement and anti-war sentiments, found common ground with Latin American activists who were fighting against military dictatorships, poverty, and inequality. Both groups shared a commitment to social justice, democracy, and the rights of marginalized communities.

Solidarity: Latin America and the US Left in the Era of Human Rights (Wildcat)

by Steve Striffler

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	932 KB
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Print length	:	256 pages

Latin American intellectuals of the time, such as dependency theorist Andre Gunder Frank and liberation theologian Gustavo Gutierrez, developed influential theories that explained the region's underdevelopment as a result of economic dependence on the United States and Western imperialism. These theories resonated with the US Left, who saw Latin America as a victim of global capitalist exploitation.

The US Left provided significant solidarity and support to Latin American activists, often traveling to the region to witness human rights violations firsthand. They organized protests, fundraisers, and campaigns to raise awareness about the struggles of Latin American people. Additionally, the US Left established organizations such as the Committee in Solidarity with the People of El Salvador (CISPES) and the Nicaraguan Solidarity Network to channel support to specific movements.

Despite shared ideologies and objectives, tensions emerged between the US Left and Latin American activists. Some criticized the US Left for its perceived paternalism and lack of understanding of the region's complex political realities. Others questioned the effectiveness of US-led solidarity efforts, arguing that they often prioritized US interests over local needs.

The US Left's influence on US foreign policy toward Latin America was complex. While they often pressured the government to take a stronger stance on human rights, they also faced limitations imposed by the Cold War context. The US government's support for anti-communist regimes in Latin America, such as in El Salvador and Guatemala, often clashed with the Left's demands for human rights and social justice.

The Human Rights Wildcat era laid the foundation for ongoing struggles for human rights and social justice in Latin America. The solidarity forged between the US Left and Latin American activists helped to raise awareness about the region's challenges and paved the way for continued collaboration. However, the tensions and criticisms that emerged during this period continue to shape the dynamics of international solidarity and the relationship between the two regions.

The relationship between Latin America and the US Left during the era of Human Rights Wildcat was a complex and multifaceted one. Ideological affinities, common struggles, and solidarity efforts existed alongside tensions and criticisms. While the US Left played a significant role in raising awareness and providing support for Latin American activists, their influence on US foreign policy was constrained by Cold War realities. The legacy of Human Rights Wildcat continues to shape the ongoing struggle for human rights and social justice in Latin America today.

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Solidarity: Latin America and the US Left in the Era of Human Rights (Wildcat)

by Steve Striffler

5 out of 5