In a poignant ceremony in Caracas, the Venezuelan government and a collective of Venezuelan artists came together to pay tribute to Julieta Hernández, an artist and victim of femicide in the Brazilian Amazon. The tragic loss of Hernández, whose life was abruptly ended last week by the riverside in the Amazon, has reverberated through the Venezuelan cultural community and beyond.

Tribute to Julieta Hernández at Casona Aquiles Nazoa

The Venezuelan Minister of Culture, Ernesto Villegas, told journalists that the tribute occurred at the Casona Aquiles Nazoa, an erstwhile presidential residence. Here, various artists gathered to honor Hernández, who had embarked on a bicycle journey across the Amazon to reach southern Venezuela before her untimely disappearance.

The circumstances surrounding Hernández’s death are harrowing. The Civil Police of the Brazilian state of Amazonas confirmed that she was sexually abused, strangled, and buried by two individuals, who are now in custody.

Complex Mix of Emotions

Villegas expressed the complex mix of emotions surrounding the event: grief over the horrific nature of Hernández’s death and a simultaneous celebration of her life and joyous spirit. “We are moved by the abominable circumstances of her physical disappearance…and at the same time, we are with her, smiling with the children she dedicated her life to,” he stated.

In her honor, Villegas announced the creation of a space within the Casona dedicated to Hernández, intended to serve the circus arts. This initiative is envisioned as a broad movement, a testament to Hernández’s legacy as a “true ambassador of peace” from Venezuela.

Vibrant Figure in the Artistic Community

Hernández had been a resident of São Paulo for several years, where she was an active member of the feminist collective Circo di SóLadies, a theater company. Performing as ‘Payasa Jujuba,’ she was a vibrant figure in the artistic community, using her talents to bring joy and laughter.

Her murder has sparked widespread condemnation from artistic and feminist organizations, with statements released on social media and public demonstrations. In Barcelona, a protest was held last Friday, uniting female clowns and cyclists in a show of solidarity and grief.

The impact of Hernández’s death extends beyond the loss of an individual; it underscores the broader issues of violence against women and the risks faced by female artists and activists. Her story has become a rallying cry for change, highlighting the need for more excellent protection and recognition of women’s rights and societal contributions.

The tribute in Caracas was a memorial for Hernández and a call to action. It served as a reminder of the power of art to heal, unite, and advocate for social change. By dedicating a space to circus arts in her name, the Venezuelan cultural community is ensuring that Hernández’s spirit and dedication to the arts continue to inspire future generations.

Emblematic of Global Struggles

Julieta Hernández’s life and tragic death have become emblematic of the struggles faced by women artists and activists around the world. The outpouring of grief and solidarity from the international community underscores the universal resonance of her story. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched with her art and in the continued fight for justice and equality.

As artists and officials gathered to honor her memory in Caracas, a palpable sense of loss mingled with a determination to continue her mission. Establishing a dedicated space for circus arts in Hernández’s name is a fitting tribute to a woman who brought joy and laughter to so many. It is a space that will nurture artistic talent and serve as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

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The tribute to Julieta Hernández in Venezuela is a poignant reminder of the enduring power of art to challenge, comfort, and unite. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring impact one individual can have on their community and the world. As Hernández’s life and work continue to inspire, her story remains a call to action against violence and a beacon of hope for a more just and equitable world.