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The Mirabal Sisters: From “The Butterflies” to a Global Symbol of Resistance

Article of Sara Herasme

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In November we pause to remember three remarkable women whose courage transformed tragedy into a global call for justice: the Mirabal sisters — Patria, Minerva, and María Teresa.

These Dominican heroines lived during one of the darkest periods of their country’s history, under the brutal dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo. Refusing to remain silent, they became powerful voices of resistance — and ultimately, martyrs for freedom.

 

The Birth of “The Butterflies”

The Mirabal sisters, affectionately known as Las Mariposas (“The Butterflies”), joined the 14th of June Movement, a resistance group dedicated to ending Trujillo’s regime. Through organizing protests, distributing anti-government materials, and mobilizing their communities, they became a symbol of defiance in the face of terror.

 

Their activism, however, came at a devastating cost. On November 25, 1960, the sisters were ambushed and brutally murdered by Trujillo’s men. Though officials attempted to disguise their deaths as an accident, the truth was undeniable — and their martyrdom sparked outrage throughout the Dominican Republic. Within a year, Trujillo himself was assassinated.

 

From Tragedy to Global Movement

Nearly four decades later, in 1999, the United Nations designated November 25th as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, in honour of the Mirabal sisters. Their story reminds us that resistance to oppression — especially gender-based violence — begins with awareness and collective courage.

Every year, the UN launches a global campaign around this day, encouraging individuals and organizations to take part in ending violence against women and girls. The Mirabal sisters’ legacy continues to inspire these efforts, bridging past and present struggles for equality and justice.

This year the campaign is centered around the ending of cyberviolence against women, you can support by amplifying the 16 Days of Activism campaign available  here.

 

The Fight Continues

While the world has made progress, gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue, even in developed regions like Europe. In May 2024, the European Union adopted Directive (EU) 2024/1385, creating binding obligations for member states to strengthen prevention, ensure victim protection, improve access to justice, and enhance cooperation among authorities. This marks a significant step forward — but legislation alone is not enough.

Everyone has a role in this fight — whether it’s supporting local organizations, raising awareness, or simply educating ourselves.

In Belgium there are organisations dedicated to raising awareness and connecting victims of gender based violence with the correct services, you will find a list of resources at the end of this post.

 

Honouring “The Butterflies” Today

The story of the Mirabal sisters is not only one of resistance — it’s one of empowerment. Their bravery proves that ordinary people can ignite extraordinary change. As we commemorate November 25th, let’s carry their spirit into our communities, workplaces, and conversations. You can learn more of the Mirabal Sisters via the book, film and podcast that have been dedicated to their story and legacy.

By remembering Las Mariposas, we reaffirm our collective commitment to a world free from violence, fear, and silence.

 

 

List of resources and support in Belgium for victims of gender based violence, mental health support in general and support for migrants in vulnerable situations:

Specialized Centers for Victims of Violence

Psychologists

Brussels Region

Flanders (Vlaanderen)

 Wallonia (Wallonie)

  • Services de Santé Mentale de Wallonie

  • Specific Initiatives for Migrants and Vulnerable Groups:

    • Santé en Exil – Charleroi

    • Clinique de l’Exil – Namur

    • Centre des Immigrés Namur-Luxembourg – Namur

    • Tabane – Liège

    • Espace 28 – Verviers

    • ASBL Sémaphore – Mons

 

 
 
 

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