Peace Rally in La Ceiba, Honduras

This afternoon, hundreds of Hondurans from La Ceiba and surrounding areas gathered together to march for peace and democracy in Honduras.  Yesterday, in the capital city of Tegucigalpa, where all the violence has been reported, there was a similar rally held.  There, thousands of peaceful supporters of the new government gathered to make their voice heard.  It came as a stark contrast to the scattered acts of violence that came from a very small group of ex-president Zelaya’s supporters.

Peaceful march down "14 de Julio" in La Ceiba.

After the girls had naps and a quick dip in the baby pool, we headed downtown to watch the march.  Hundreds gathered, mostly dressed in white for peace or blue and white for Honduras, and peacefully walked with flags, signs, and chants such as queremos paz (“we want peace!”) and Hon-du-ras! It was a very prideful moment for us to see hundreds of Hondurans gather together and make a stand for what they believe is right for their country.  Though there was a big military presence, it wasn’t needed on this group.

Marcher holding a Honduran flag in the shape of Honduras labeled "Free"

We hung towards the back, stopped for ice cream, and then spotted the military beginning to assemble.  When we first showed up downtown, people warned us not to go to Central Park or the adjoining government building, that was where the Zelaya supports were gathered.  As we drew near, we saw a small group of angry looking protesters, mostly dressed in red.  Although nothing bad was happening yet, we knew this was our cue to leave.  Military had walled off the road, presumable keeping the two groups apart.

Honduran military blocking the road to Central Park.

Back in the car, we headed home to our quiet neighborhood.  It was an informative afternoon, seeing hundreds of Honduras peacefully rallying for peace, while a small, angry group of Zelaya supporters protesting.  Zelaya has pushed back his return trip to Honduras until this weekend, so please continue to pray for peace in Honduras.