Welcome to The Environmentalist, your column for understanding the natural world. Today we will remember the life and work of Mexico’s greatest monarch butterfly defender.
A man walks through a forest, surrounded by lush trees and greenery. Suddenly, a burst of orange and black surrounds him, as if greeting him. The monarch butterflies rise in gratitude; they know that without him, there would be no home for them to return to.
Homero Goméz González was one of the most well-known and respected environmental activists in Mexico and Latin America. He represented local farmers and Indigenous communities, leading successful conservation efforts in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in the forests of Michoacán. Brave and unwavering, he spoke out even when his work was threatened by criminal groups known as cartels.
“He was always looking out for everyone; he made sure that the forest was reforested every year,” said Javier Miranda García, a colleague of Goméz, to BBC.
Known as a guardian of the monarch butterfly, Goméz protected their habitat until, in the end, he paid with his life. On Jan. 3, 2020, Goméz disappeared. 16 days later, he was found dead in an agricultural well in Ocampo under suspicious circumstances. Many suspect involvement from cartels and even government officials; it was discovered through the autopsy results that his death was not accidental, and robbery was not a likely motivator. Tragically, in Latin America, activism — especially in defence of the environment — is often a death sentence.
The monarch butterfly holds a special place in Mexican culture, as they are believed to carry the souls of deceased loved ones. Recently, the monarch has been seen as a symbol of Latin American immigrants and the unity between Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. And so, with every monarch we see in the sky, we can believe that a part of Goméz’ soul journeys with them.
Goméz dedicated countless hours to exposing the destruction caused by illegal logging in Mexico, a threat that directly impacts butterflies. His efforts succeeded and he became an early advocate for environmental causes, as well as the face of monarch butterfly conservation. His passion extended to his family and loved ones, who remember him with deep affection; his entire community honours him with gratitude and admiration.
Thank you, Homero, for being a light in the dark. You showed us that change is possible if we are brave. As you once said: “If we are going to do something, we should do it without fear.” And oh, what a fearless man you were.
