Maria da Penha

Brazilian activist who fought for domestic violence victims and inspired landmark legislation

Dr. Maria da Penha Fernandes (b. 1945) is a Brazilian nurse and activist whose personal tragedy led to a national movement against domestic violence. After suffering severe injuries from her husband's attempted murder in 1983, her 12-year legal battle revealed systemic failures in Brazil's judicial system. Her case became the catalyst for the Maria da Penha Law (2006), Brazil's first comprehensive domestic violence legislation. This law established specialized courts, protection orders, and mandatory punishment for perpetrators - models later adopted by 12 other countries. Her foundation continues to train professionals in domestic violence response.Read her story on Wikipedia.

Da Penha's advocacy expanded internationally through UN Women partnerships and her role in the CEDAW Committee. Her memoir 《Breaking the Silence》 documents her journey from victim to global advocate. The landmark law bears her name, symbolizing Brazil's first recognition of domestic violence as a public crime rather than a private matter. Her work is highlighted in 《The Courage to Speak》 documentary. Despite her achievements, da Penha remains a lesser-known figure globally compared to her legislative legacy.