The following passage is a powerful excerpt from the prologue of the book titled *"Nuestra voz importa, hoy yo levanto la mía"*, which translates to *"Our Voice Matters, Today I Raise Mine"*. It speaks to the deep pain and struggles faced by children and adolescents, particularly girls, who experience violence. The text reflects their emotional turmoil and their urgent call for change: *"We, the children, are violated, we are used as puppets. I hope that one day, someday, this stops..."* is one of the texts found in the book, setting the stage for the reader to encounter other powerful expressions like: *"It’s a bit strange to say it this way, but I am already tired of the violence against us. Many of us feel it when we walk alone, others feel it because we are violated."* These words serve as both a cry and a testimony of the harsh realities many children face across different regions of the country. They are also testimonies of hope and commitment, as the authors, young boys and girls, express their determination to contribute to the construction of a better future.
This book, along with the video, captures the expressions of adolescents and young people who are part of the communications group and the Educational Community of Benposta at its Bogotá headquarters. It is the result of a process within the framework of the project: "Culture for Life: Strengthening a communications process with children and adolescents affected by the armed conflict in Colombia," supported by the 1st Institute of Cooperation and Portuguese Language of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – the Embassy of Portugal in Colombia. Benposta once again advocates for the right of children, adolescents, and young people (NNAJ) to be heard.
Benposta is an organization dedicated to defending and promoting the rights of children, adolescents, and young people, creating protective spaces and opportunities for a dignified life, based on active participation and social commitment.