Blake Taylor's Reflection:
This project opened my eyes to the severity of conflicts abroad. I learned about the disgusting mistreatment of the Peruvian citizens by the terrorist groups as well as their own government. These atrocities undoubtedly fall into the category of war crimes. I was surprised to see a countries own government turn on its people. I was also surprised to learn that there was not only one terrorist extremist group but two that were locked into conflict and are still fighting to this day. Researching this issue expanded my knowledge of other conflicts around the globe. I learned about many other countries people who are suffering from a lack of human rights. I learned from Francisco Soberon that leading the under privileged can make others conform to your cause. he taught many people and inspired thousands. Good leadership can influence others as it clearly has for the Peruvian citizens. I truly believe that his organization (The Association of Human Rights in Peru) has helped relocate and protect the people of Peru.
Lee Kopecky's Reflection:
Upon researching the Civil conflict in Peru, the thing that shocked me the most was how long it took for any change to come to the country. It really gave me perspective on to how long it takes important global issues to be solved. My research has taught me that the best thing to do in a human rights crisis is to bring as much attention to the issue possible or it will take forever to change.This is exactly how Francisco Soberon accessed this situation, and eventually led the country out of this turmoil. And if i have learned one thing from my research, is that the people of crisis's like these don't have to time to wait forever.
Gabe Sullivan's Reflection:
The most surprising aspect of this project was the shear brutality of the Shinning Path and the government funded death squads. Though all of the fighting was on home soil this did not slow the war machine which were these two Peruvian groups locked in civil conflict. The research I found showed that when one side would commit a horrible injustice to their rival the other side would likely retaliate with another horrible act. However, this is true for most civil conflicts all over the world. Even if the victim is a fellow citizen it will not lessen the bloodshed. Francisco Soberon taught many Peruvian citizens how to inspire positive messages and inspired thousands of Peruvians to stand up to the injustice in their home country.