A recognition of perseverance in the search for justice
In an act full of symbolism, José Luis Castillo Carreón, father of Esmeralda Castillo, a young woman who disappeared in Ciudad Juárez in 2009, was awarded the Honorary Doctorate by the School of Higher Studies of Chihuahua. The ceremony, held on May 3, recognized not only his tireless search for truth and justice for his daughter, but also his work as a defender of human rights and spokesperson for victims of gender violence in Mexico.
From father to activist: A transformation forged in pain
The disappearance of Esmeralda marked a before and after in the life of José Luis Castillo. What began as a personal search became a crusade to make visible the cases of feminicide and forced disappearance in the country. Over 16 years, Castillo has acquired knowledge in criminal law and gender perspective, tools that she has used to accompany other families in similar situations.
The educational institution highlighted in its speech: “José Luis Castillo Carreón has transformed pain into a tireless fight for human rights. His work transcends the personal, becoming a national reference”. In addition to his legal activism, Castillo has promoted initiatives such as “Esmeraldatón”, a race against human trafficking, and has participated in prevention campaigns in schools and public spaces.
The context: Ciudad Juárez and the crisis of disappearances
Ciudad Juárez, the epicenter of gender violence in Mexico, registers one of the highest rates of femicides and disappearances. According to data from civil organizations, at least 1,500 women have disappeared in the entity since 1993. Castillo has become a key figure for dozens of mothers searching for their children, organizing marches, sit-ins and demands before the authorities.
Despite the years, Esmeralda’s case remains open. Recently, Castillo denounced that his daughter was removed from the National Registry of Missing Persons, a fact that he described as “an attempt to erase her memory.” Before the Attorney General’s Office of Chihuahua, he insists that the search must continue under the premise of finding her alive.
Legacy and reflections
The Honoris Causa Doctorate not only honors Castillo, but also highlights the outstanding debts of the Mexican State in matters of justice. Human rights experts point out that recognitions like this are vital to maintain social pressure on unpunished cases. “José Luis’s struggle reflects that of thousands of families in Mexico. His story is a reminder that justice cannot depend only on the perseverance of the victims,” said a representative of the NGO Paso del Norte Human Rights Center during the ceremony.
May 19, 2025 will mark 16 years since Esmeralda disappeared. Meanwhile, his father’s work continues to be a beacon for those who demand a country where no family has to live the same life.
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