Feb 12 • 03:13 UTC 🇦🇷 Argentina La Nacion (ES)

Childhood, Punishment, and Absence

The article highlights the plight of children imprisoned during Argentina's military dictatorship and the ethical challenges faced in addressing their rights.

The article discusses the historical context of child imprisonment in Argentina during the military dictatorship, specifically focusing on the transfer of minors to Olmos prison under the guise of space constraints in specialized institutions. It notes that the ethics of incarcerating children were seldom questioned, with the notable exception of Matilde Kirilovsky de Creimer, who served as president of the Minorities Commission of the La Plata Bar Association. Matilde took a courageous stand by bringing the case to court, proposing a groundbreaking alternative to housing minors in the vacant governor's house rather than in a prison, and her legal action was successful.

Matilde Kirilovsky's efforts underscored the idea that a lack of resources should never justify the violation of children's rights, illustrating that it is possible for the judiciary to hold power to account, even in the most challenging circumstances. Her actions provided a significant precedent in advocating for the rights of minors during a dark period of Argentine history when their treatment was often ignored. The article also touches on her dual identity as a poet under the name Matilde Alba Swann, suggesting that her artistic work offered deeper insights into the emotional and ethical complexities surrounding childhood that the law alone could not address.

Through its exploration of Matilde Kirilovsky's life and her commitment to children's rights, the article highlights the significance of individual action and moral courage in the fight for justice, particularly for those who are most vulnerable in society. It serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning state actions and advocating for the protection of fundamental human rights, especially in contexts where such rights may be neglected or overlooked.

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