28 years after the crime of José Luis Cabezas: the memory of his sister and his colleagues

January 25, 1997 marked a before and after in the history of the Argentine journalismwhen Jose Luis Cabezasphotographer and journalist, was brutally murdered in Pinamar. 28 years after the crime, his memory is still alive as a emblem of the fight for truth and freedom of expressionwhile the wounds from his murder remain open in Argentine society.

Cabezas, remembered for his unique journalistic nose and his ability to connect, left an indelible mark on the world of journalism, on his family and on his colleagues. your sister Gladys defines it as “a happy and good person”.

Gabriel Michicompanion and close friend, highlights his talent: “Jose Luis He had an impressive journalistic nose. “I could imagine the entire note before taking the photo.” Cabezas achieved iconic images, like that of the businessman Alfredo Yabranwhich made him the target of threats and finally, the victim of a heinous crime.

“I saw him convince people I would never have imagined. For example, Ernesto Sabatowho had a very difficult character, did it pose in front of a naive background in a square. I also remember when he managed to Oscar Andreani “dressed in a typical costume for a photo shoot.”

The crime that shook the country

The murder of José Luis Cabezas was not an isolated event. The photographer had been investigating corruption cases and drug trafficking in the province of Buenos Aires, exposing powerful figures like Yabrán. His work made him a target for retaliation. During his vacation in Pinamar, he was kidnapped and murdered. His body was found burned in a car in General Madariaga.

The impact of the crime was immediate. Thousands of Argentines took to the streets in marches and demonstrations demanding justice. “Never in the world has an entire society mobilized for a journalist”stressed Michi, who assures that this case marked a milestone in the history of the country.

Despite the initial condemnations, for many justice was not up to par. The responsible directors, including the members of the band “The Horneros”they are free. Even Alfredo Yabrán, accused of being the mastermind, avoided justice by taking his own life in 2000.

Gladys Cabezas regrets this situation: “This justice is slow and serves no purpose. There hasn’t been anyone arrested for a while. We have a completely absent state.”

Gabriel Michi also expressed his indignation: “It is incredible thatwho participated in the murder today they are free. some even reoffended in crimes. This reflects how the judicial system has failed miserably.”

The legacy of José Luis Cabezas

Over the years, the figure of José Luis Cabezas became a press freedom icon and the fight for justice. More than 75 streets, squares and neighborhoods in Argentina bear his namea tribute to his legacy.

“Today, José Luis is a reference. See how someone who was my partner became such an important symbol It’s something that impacts me deeply.”Michi reflected.

The Cabezas case “not only is a reminder of the dangers journalists face when reporting the truthbut also a constant denunciation of the failures of a judicial system that has not known how to repair the damage caused,” he highlighted.

28 years after the murder, the memory of José Luis Cabezas remains valid as a beacon of struggle for the fundamental values ​​of a democratic society: truth, justice and freedom of expression.

Photojournalist Day: why is it commemorated every January 25?

Each January 25 in Argentina commemorates the National Photojournalist Dayin memory of the murder of Jose Luis Cabezas. This day was promulgated with the Law No. 24,876he October 13, 1997and had the support of the Association of Graphic Reporters of the Argentine Republic.

“Don’t forget Cabezas”the motto imposed by the group of Graphic Reporterswhich becomes valid again on each anniversary of the homicide committed in the Atlantic Coast.