Jorge Gumucio, a Former U.N Ambassador spoke at Seton Hill University (SHU) Tuesday, Mar. 16, 2010 in Reeves Theatre. The speech took a personal look into a hostage situation that lasted over 120 days.
By Tyler Carter
Contributor
Jorge Gumucio, a Former U.N Ambassador spoke at Seton Hill University (SHU) Tuesday, Mar. 16, 2010 in Reeves Theatre. The speech took a personal look into a hostage situation that lasted over 120 days.
Gumucio told of his experience with the terrorist group Túpac Amaru Revolutionary Movement (MRTA) in Peru. The movement was violent and had strong base of young, zealous vigilantes.
Gumucio said, “ The attacks were a way to get ransom from high profile officials and entrepreneurs.” Gumucio along with 600 other hostages were held in the Japanese Embassy of Peru on December 17, 1996. The hostage situation was the the result of political unrest and the enforcement of greater penalties for those involved in guerilla warfare or any other form of terrorism.
The honest feel of the event gave the audience an appreciation for the country we live in, and the kind of government we have. Maria Mastramatteo a sophomore here at SHU said “Personally, I think that sometimes American students are less educated on current events than foreign students or even adults. If the event or situation doesn’t affect or involve us, we tend to keep our eyes closed. The speaker today brought a personal account of what happened internationally, allowing for the spread of knowledge and also questions.”
“ I thought his story was extremely powerful and inspirational. It was nice to have a speaker of his
political ranks relate everything smoothly and easily understandable. He definitely opened my eyes to
the severe political problems in Peru but also how fast and strategic the government was.”
The Peruvian government attempted to implement stronger rule and law over all terrorist activity,
which was the cause for this retaliation. Gumucio was one of many important; government
officials, politicians and entrepreneurs who attended the event on that fateful night.
“ The government in Peru has grown and has become more solidified. Peru is now holding elections and organizing their structure”, Gumcio said.
The audience was captivated by Gumucio’s storytelling and his use of humor to give the event a positive appeal. “ I never have come into contact with a former hostage, I found myself loving my life a lot more.” One student remarked.
‘’ They were captured and held for 126 days? I don’t think I have any room to complain, ever”.