"Aurora" Play Raises Awareness on Forced Early Unions in Paraguay

A new play, "Aurora," is set to premiere, aiming to shed light on the critical issue of forced early unions in Paraguay. Developed through a collaboration between Plan International Paraguay and the TIA Maneglia-Schémbori theater group, the production seeks to raise awareness about the severe challenges and suffering endured by girls who are forced into marriage at a young age.

The play, written and directed by Rodrigo Pastore, will have a free public performance at the Alianza Francesa. It addresses the deeply ingrained societal normalization of early and forced unions, especially prevalent in rural and indigenous communities. This practice is closely linked to adolescent pregnancy, creating a cycle that Plan International Paraguay describes as one that "robs life projects, perpetuates poverty, and reinforces inequality."

Statistics from Paraguay's 2016 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) reveal that 16.1% of women aged 15 to 19 reported being married or in an early union, with a significant majority living in rural areas. Many of these young women had limited educational attainment, belonged to indigenous communities, or came from the poorest segments of society. Gustavo Benítez, a project manager at Plan International Paraguay, emphasized that child marriage and forced early unions "truncate childhood" and force girls into responsibilities they are unprepared for, violating their rights and limiting their access to education.

"Aurora" is inspired by the true story of a woman whose childhood was cut short by a forced union. The play explores her journey through memory, depicting the fear, silence, and violence she experienced, alongside her resilience and hope. The narrative unfolds as the adult Aurora revisits her past, confronting the moment she had to abandon her dreams to be given to an older man. The production features actors Lidia López, Malú Yegros, Teresa Barriocanal, and Felipe Jara, with a special performance on Wednesday, July 29th, at 7:00 PM.