Guatemalans climb volcano in protest against domestic violence

Summary of story from BBC, January 22, 2012

Around 12,000 Guatemalans have climbed an extinct volcano in a protest against domestic violence.

The activists formed what they hope was the world’s longest human chain all the way to the peak of the 3,765m (12,352 feet) Volcan de Agua.

Among those taking part in the “Walk for Life” was Guatemala’s new President, Otto Perez Molina.

Guatemala has one of the highest murder rates in the world, and domestic violence is a particular problem.

The Volcan de Agua or “Water Volcano” – also known as Hunahpu by the indigenous Maya – towers above the colonial city of Antigua, 45km (28 miles) southeast of Guatemala City.

“We want violence to end in this country, we don’t want Guatemala to be one of the most violent countries in the world,” President Perez Molina said as he joined the crowds hiking to the top.