Founded in 2009, the "Casa Social Cultural y Memoria" aims to create an alternative to the conflict-ridden everyday life in the city of Buenaventura. Prof. Dr. Thomas Fischer, holder of the Chair of Latin American History and Director of the Center for Latin American Studies at the KU, referred to the difficult situation in the country's largest port city in his laudatory speech: There is great social inequality, and many young people and women in particular feel they have no prospects. Gang crime as well as drug and arms trafficking also contribute to people slipping into illegal activities. The Safe House, which has now received an award, is doing valuable work here.
Leaders of social movements meet at the "Casa". Volunteers use tools such as mural painting, amateur theater and a recording studio to show young people alternatives to violence. "Especially in times when dehumanization and social division are increasing worldwide, such spaces are invaluable", said Ulrike Schurr-Schöpfel, spokesperson for the working group “AK Shalom” that awards the prize. "With this award, we want to make this extraordinary commitment visible and honor it, while at the same time sending a signal of international solidarity."