State of the World from NPR In Mexico, Songs for Women who Kill Their Abusers
May 22, 2025
The podcast explores the harrowing realities faced by women in Mexico who kill their abusers, shedding light on systemic violence and punishment. It features Vivir Quintana's music, which tells these women's tragic stories, empowering them through poignant corridos. The conversation highlights the emotional struggles and resilience of these individuals, while critiquing societal indifference to domestic violence. Songs serve as a powerful medium for change, illustrating the fight against injustice and the quest for healing.
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Inspiration from Tragic Murder
- Vivir Quintana was deeply moved by the murder of her college friend and imagined if her friend had killed her abuser instead.
- This personal tragedy inspired her to research and tell stories of women who killed their abusers in Mexico.
Prison Stories Inspire Songs
- Vivir Quintana visited prisons and spoke with women jailed for killing abusive partners to create authentic narratives for her album.
- The songs include raw, firsthand accounts emphasizing the women's pain and struggle for freedom.
Brutal Silence on Abuse
- In Mexico, there is a harsh silence surrounding abuse victims despite the country's image as supportive during crises.
- Many women who kill their abusers face neglect from authorities and isolation from society.