A vigil, ‘Not One More Latina,’ is scheduled for Friday in West Jordan, Utah, to honor Latina women who have tragically died as a result of domestic violence and to increase awareness of this critical issue.

Community United Against Violence

Organizers are stressing the importance of community unity and providing support for victims of domestic violence. Rocio Sifuentes, whose sister Gaby Sifuentes Castilla was killed by her former boyfriend in 2021, is a driving force behind the event.

“Every woman murdered is part of a family and part of a community,” Sifuentes powerfully stated. “If you hurt any woman, you’re also hurting our community.”

Remembering Lost Lives

The vigil aims to raise awareness that Sifuentes’ sister’s story is not isolated. Representatives from Utah’s Latino community organized the event to remember those lost to domestic violence.

Since last July, law enforcement reports indicate that three Latina immigrants have died due to domestic violence perpetrated by their partners. These include Lindha Zerpa Lara, who died on April 17th, and Jeusselem Elieth Genes Vitola, whose death occurred in late February or early March.

“They’re not just a number,” Sifuentes asserted. “They have families, mothers, sisters, friends.”

Vigil Details and Additional Support

The ‘Not One More Latina’ vigil will begin at 8 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, located at 1985 W. 7800 South, in West Jordan. While focused on the Latino community, organizers emphasize that domestic violence is a universal problem.

Brandy Farmer, president of the Mexican Civic Center in Salt Lake City, will be a speaker at the vigil. The Mexican Civic Center frequently hosts events for the Mexican community and has a history of domestic violence prevention initiatives.

In addition to the vigil, free ‘healing and prevention workshops’ will be held on Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 3441 S. 2200 West in West Valley City.

Ongoing Legal Case

The case of Gaby Ramos (Sifuentes Castilla) is ongoing. The trial for Manuel Omar Burciaga-Perea, charged with her murder, has been postponed to October due to a scheduling conflict with his attorney. Ramos was a well-known Hispanic radio host in the community.

Organizers hope these events will honor the lives lost and inspire action to create a safer environment for all women. More information and stories can be found in the Voces de Utah section.