"Añil" is a powerful film that sheds light on the untold stories of women who endured rape during the Salvadoran civil war at the hands of the security forces and the guerrilla forces. Through the voices of two survivors, this documentary captures their resilience and determination to break the silence surrounding these crimes. The film, a metaphorical journey of song, dance, and acting, confronts the state's failure to acknowledge and investigate these atrocities even after 31 years. Directed by Julio López and supported by the research of Dr. Paula Cuellar Cuellar, this documentary has received positive reception during community screenings, sparking important conversations about the past and the healing process for El Salvador.
Paula Cuellar Cuellar is a dedicated researcher and CFD Postdoctoral Teaching Fellow at Bowdoin College in Latin American, Caribbean, and Latinx Studies. With a Ph.D. in history from the University of Minnesota, her focus lies in Latin America's modern and contemporary history, explicitly studying violence in the region during the 20th and 21st centuries. Her research explores issues such as sexual violations in the Salvadoran armed conflict, post-conflict societies, disappearances in Mexico and Central America, and genocide in Central America. Paula's work amplifies marginalized voices, challenges dominant narratives, and advocates for human rights. She has taught various courses and contributed to esteemed publications.