How long would you hold out for justice? How long would you work to secure a future for your children? Lakot’s story is one of great perseverance in the face of hardship, threats and violence.
At 17, newly married Lakot and her husband were forced to flee their farm in northern Uganda as the Lord’s Resistance Army spread violence and death. The couple lived in a camp for internally displaced persons for 14 years and raised four children there.
Lakot’s marriage was strong, but her husband died in 2008, just one year before Lakot was able to realize their dream of returning home. When she arrived, Lakot discovered that a neighbor had claimed the land as his own.
In many parts of the world, women like Lakot are vulnerable to violence and intimidation. Your support helps IJM defend them.
Lakot asked him to stop farming on her land. Instead, he attacked her. When she stood up for herself, he threatened to kill her with his panga, a large cutting tool. The local council ruled in Lakot’s favor, but the neighbor continued his trespassing and threats. Another court turned her away. Then local leaders referred Lakot’s case to IJM.
By that time, Lakot had been living with the violence of her neighbor for nearly four years. And sadly, the case was nowhere near over. Due to the many tricks and delays of the neighbor, it took another seven years and an incredible amount of perseverance for Lakot to fully regain possession of her home.
Thanks to the support of people like you, IJM was there to counsel and encourage Lakot. “Their constant home visits strengthened me emotionally, making me feel loved, and protected me from further victimization,” she says. She was also strengthened by her determination to leave her children a secure future in their home. “My children will be left to strive in this world after I die, so my resolve to fight never wavered.”
When justice takes years, most survivors don’t have the resources to fight alone, but your gifts mean IJM can be there—no matter how long it takes.
In many parts of Africa, widows like Lakot are vulnerable to land theft, part of the larger worldwide problem of violence against women and children. But because you care, IJM teams in Uganda are able to walk with survivors on their journey to justice and help local justice systems respond more effectively. Together we’re making great strides!
Because Lakot and IJM would not give up, Lakot and her children can feel safe in their home again. And because IJM supporters like you won’t give up, more people every year are rescued and protected from violence. Will you make a gift today to help someone like Lakot?
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