Educate First-Generation Students in Honduras

Dear Friends,

We generally use this as a platform to share stories of change and the important work that we do together. While that still holds true, we also feel it is important to give you a glimpse of the reality that our scholars – and students across Honduras – are living right now.

Hondurans have been living through crisis after crisis over the past several years, most recently as a direct result of the people’s indignation over the politics and (unconstitutional) presidency of Honduras’ second-term president, Juan Orlando Hernández, who is increasingly implicated in drug-related corruption and represses peaceful protests with police and military violence.

This violent repression hit even closer to home last week. Last Tuesday, police released tear gas inside a bus that transports students from the public university campus in San Pedro Sula to the city of El Progreso, where OYE is located. Seven of our scholars were on that bus and were forced to escape the fumes through open windows. Tear gas was also released in the general parking area, which affected students attending classes in nearby academic buildings. We are relieved that all of our scholars - and the rest of the students on that bus - are physically okay, though very rattled. This is only one in a series of attacks on students over the past couple years who peacefully stand up for their rights and what they believe in.

One of the students returning home from university that terrifying night was Óscar.

Now 20, Óscar came to OYE in his early adolescence, nearly eight years ago. His boyish grin may fool you into thinking he is the typical young and carefree teenager, but that is not the case. Behind that grin is a serious and concerned young man who is striving to go to college, where he studies civil engineering, and provide financially for his mother and little sister.

For most young people in Honduras, the opportunity to go to college is not even on the table. So, while Oscar’s road is not always easy, the fact that he even has the chance makes him one of the lucky ones. You don’t have to tell him that, though. He already knows it and is determined to always persevere, stay positive, and never let opportunities pass him by.

Over the past 14 years, our generous community has come together to support nearly 400 young Hondurans to graduate from high school and - in most cases - continue on to higher education. Beyond their education, our scholars become empowered and engaged citizens who stand up for themselves and for what is right, even when it is hard.

Thank you for being a part of this community and for standing with OYE.

In appreciation,
Amanda

P.S. Right now, all small donations up to $50 will be matched 100% by GlobalGiving until funds run out. Your donation will receive an additional match by anonymous OYE donors until the end of the month as a part of our summer campaign. 

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