Maria Campuzano dies at 44 years old, the activist who managed to prevent electricity from being cut off to families
He was a spokesperson for the Alliance against Energy Poverty
Barcelona"No thirst, no cold, no darkness." These were the causes championed by Maria Campuzano, who passed away this Sunday at the age of 44 (she would have turned 45 in July), leaving behind a life dedicated to the fight for a more just and egalitarian society. Spokesperson for the Alliance against Energy Poverty (APE) and a member of Engineers Without Borders, the activist was a benchmark in all battles for the rights to basic supplies, housing, and water. "She was our guide, the legacy she leaves us is to continue working and we will think about how Maria would have done it, her strength and example," explains Andrea Vides, a militant in these two organizations.
the Alliance against Energy Poverty (APE)In 2014, Campuzano was involved in the establishment of the APE, the organization that managed to stop supply cuts and led Endesa and the Generalitat to sign an agreement to forgive the debt of 25,000 families. "Her contribution has been crucial for Law 24/2015 and for regulations that protect the vulnerable," emphasizes Vides. Just a few weeks ago, she still participated in the organization's celebrations for its 12th anniversary.
Vides emphasizes that Campuzano "watched over the fight both on a personal and collective level" and was always very attentive to the female companions affected by power cuts, attending them in the bi-weekly advisory sessions organized by the APE. At the same time, she was able to build international networks for the right to supplies. "Everyone loved Maria very much," admits the activist.
Inspiration for the struggle
Today, her struggle companions remember her as a brave, fighter woman, who knew how to listen and was always present in all struggles, whether in the streets or in offices. For a decade she has been the face of APE, amiable and always willing to address doubts and requests for statements. In a joint statement from APE and Engineers Without Borders, they recall Campuzano as a steadfast, inspiring, and tireless activist, "who has managed to leave the world better than she found it, with a firm step and, at the same time, unprecedented sensitivity".
Campuzano's wake will open tomorrow, Monday, at 4 p.m. at the Tanatori de la Ronda de Dalt in Barcelona, and the farewell ceremony will take place at 6 p.m.
