“A single ceramic tile can hold a universe of stories.” The Carlos “Petete” Almirón Plaque, right here before us, is one such tile. It’s more than just a memorial. It’s a window into the heart of a turbulent time in Argentina’s history. The Carlos “Petete” Almirón Plaque commemorates a young life tragically cut short during the tumultuous days of December 2001. Carlos, nicknamed “Petete,” was an activist deeply involved in the protests against the government’s economic policies. He was a member of the Movimiento 29 de Mayo and CORREPI, organizations fighting for social justice and against police repression.
Carlos believed in creating change from the ground up, working within his community in Lanús and Monte Chingolo. His comrades remember him for his unwavering commitment and solidarity. On that fateful day, December 20th, 2001, Carlos joined the throngs of protestors in Buenos Aires. He stood on the front lines, facing the aggression of the state’s repressive apparatus. A fellow activist recalled their last embrace in the plaza, exchanging a hopeful “See you after we take power!”
Tragically, Carlos, along with 38 others, never saw the aftermath of those protests. He was shot by the Federal Operations Corps while leading a column of demonstrators back towards Plaza de Mayo. The officer in charge was Ernesto Sergio Weber, son of a notorious figure from Argentina’s dark past. The Carlos “Petete” Almirón Plaque is a stark reminder of the cost of dissent. It’s a testament to the courage of those who stood up against injustice, even in the face of deadly force. This small plaque carries the weight of history, a symbol of loss and the ongoing struggle for a better future. The plaque, created by Grupo de Arte Callejero in 2002, stands as a poignant tribute to Carlos and a symbol of resistance against state violence. It bears the inscription: “Carlos ‘Petete’ Almirón. Murdered by police repression in the popular rebellion of 20/12/01.” Let us remember Carlos “Petete” Almirón, his dedication to social justice, and the tragic events that led to his untimely death. His story, etched in ceramic, continues to resonate in the fight for a more just and equitable Argentina.