In Colombia, a date that should be marked by love, gratitude and family celebration has become, paradoxically, one of the most violent days of the year. Mother’s Day, which is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, historically records an alarming increase in homicide, quarrels, personal injury and domestic violence.
According to data from the National Institute of Legal Medicine and the National Police, this day even exceeds festivities such as Christmas or New Year in terms of violence. Only in 2023, Mother’s Day left more than 30 homicides and hundreds of injured throughout the country, mainly related to quarrels between family or acquaintances.
One of the main factors behind this violence is excessive alcohol consumption. The celebrations usually start from Saturday night and extend throughout Sunday, which causes altercations in family gatherings where old grudges or unresolved conflicts emerge.
According to the authorities, another critical element is domestic violence, which finds a trigger on these dates due to emotional pressure, economic stress – not being able to give a gift or celebrate as it would like – and the frustration accumulated in some homes. In addition, in sectors where the institutional presence is weak, access to weapons or the actions of gangs further aggravates the situation.
Every year, entities such as the National Police launch prevention campaigns and reinforce the presence in neighborhoods with high rates of violence. Attention lines for victims of domestic violence are also strengthened. However, experts agree that a more comprehensive approach is needed that combines emotional education, mental health care and sustained community policies.
Beyond statistics, Mother’s Day in Colombia reflects a painful paradox: love and violence cross in the same day. While thousands of people celebrate with flowers and lunches, many others face mourning, wounds and pain. The question is: how long will this trend follow and what are we willing to change as a society so that this date is again what it should really be – a life celebration?
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