On the 25th anniversary of his death” a memorial service for Chico Mendes” born Francisco Alves Mendes Filho” will take place December 22″ 2013″ 4 pm” at Holy Name Catholic Church” 920 11th Street NE” Washington” DC 20002. Chico Mendes was a Brazilian environmental activist and rural union leader.  He fought to preserve the Amazon rainforest” and advocated for the human rights of Brazilian peasants and Indigenous Peoples.

Invited speakers include Barbara Bramble (Senior Adviser” National Wildlife Federation)” Rev. Joe Eldridge (Chaplain” American University)” John Garrison (World Bank Civil Society Team)” Linda Rabben (Human Rights Consultant” Rainforest Foundation US) and Paulo Sotero” Director” Wilson Center Brazil Institute.

Brazilian music will be performed” and a reception will take place after the service. 

The event is free and open to the public.