In the heart of Buenos Aires, amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, lies a chapel where Ángeles Celerier, like many others, begins her day with a solemn prayer. Amidst the statues of Saint Cajetan and Saint Teresa, Celerier bows her head in reverence, not only to the canonized saints but also to a figure not recognized by the Vatican – Eva Perón.
“For me, she is the saint of the people,” declares Celerier, her voice resonating with conviction.
Across Argentina, Eva Perón, affectionately known as Evita, remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. Union members, politicians, and ordinary citizens alike hold her in high esteem, viewing her as a symbol of prosperity and social justice, attributed to the Peronist movement she championed alongside her husband, President Juan Domingo Perón.
Julio Piumato, a prominent human rights director, underscores Evita’s significance, emphasizing her role in dignifying the working class and advancing social justice during her husband’s presidency.
However, Evita’s legacy extends far beyond politics. Her compassion and activism endeared her to the people, earning her the title of “spiritual reservoir of the people,” as Piumato describes. Her visits to the elderly and single mothers, her advocacy for women’s rights, and her charitable endeavors left an indelible mark on Argentine society.
In the eyes of many feminists and social activists, Evita remains a symbol of empowerment and social transformation. Her image adorns flags and banners, serving as a rallying point for those advocating for the marginalized and oppressed.
Yet, Evita’s legacy is not without controversy. Critics point to allegations of corruption and authoritarianism within the Peronist movement, casting doubt on her altruistic motives. Despite such criticisms, her admirers remain steadfast in their devotion, viewing her as a tireless advocate for the downtrodden.
The enduring reverence for Evita transcends generations and political affiliations. For individuals like Rita Cantero and Rafaela Escobar, whose lives were touched by her compassion, Evita embodies the spirit of resilience and compassion that defines the Argentine identity.
As visitors flock to Evita’s grave in Recoleta Cemetery, laying flowers and offering prayers, it becomes evident that her legacy endures, her memory immortalized in the hearts of the Argentine people. In times of uncertainty and adversity, they turn to Evita for solace and inspiration, finding comfort in her enduring legacy of compassion and solidarity.
Evita’s image, imprinted on the 100-peso bills, adorns murals across the country, and her presence is felt in the daily lives of Argentinians. In restaurants like Saint Evita, her altar stands as a testament to her enduring influence. Whether through political activism or personal devotion, Evita’s spirit lives on, shaping the collective consciousness of a nation striving for equality and justice.
With inputs from AP’s global religion team.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
