Memories of political violence in Chile: 1970-2014

Abstract

In this article we reflect upon memories of political violence in Chile. We argue that the hegemony of memories from and about victims of human rights violations has contributed to the invisibility of other memories constructed by different social subjects, which differ from the previous ones and participate as well in the construction of the present. These memories, less visible and with no organized expression in the public sphere impact actions of both individuals and groups, since people interpret reality, construct opinions and make decisions based on them. These memories are less visible and recognized, participating in the process of memorialization in a less clearer and precise way, having however significant psychological, social and political effects. It is argued as well that limiting actions and policies of memory to the reparation for victims and the reconciliation among competing sectors of society has excluded the serious and thoughtful debate about political violence exercised in democracy from public discussion, restricting its moral condemnation to the defense of a Nunca más that excludes current practices.