Raquel Liberman

Raquel Liberman

Raquel Liberman (July 10, 1900 – April 7, 1935) was a Polish immigrant to Argentina who became a notable figure in the fight against human trafficking and forced prostitution in Buenos Aires during the early 20th century. Her story is a significant example of the struggle against the Zwi Migdal, a powerful Jewish criminal organization involved in the white slave trade.

Early Life

Raquel Liberman was born in Berdichev, in the Russian Empire (now in Ukraine), into a Jewish family. After the death of her husband in 1922, she emigrated to Argentina with her two sons in search of a better life. However, upon her arrival in Buenos Aires, she fell victim to the Zwi Migdal, which forced her into prostitution.

Struggle and Liberation

Liberman's fight against the Zwi Migdal began in earnest in 1929 when she decided to escape the clutches of the organization. She sought help from the Argentine police, but her initial attempts were thwarted, as the Zwi Migdal had infiltrated the police force. Undeterred, Liberman continued her efforts and finally found an ally in Julio Alsogaray, an officer uncorrupted by the organization's influence.

With Alsogaray's assistance, Liberman filed a formal complaint against the Zwi Migdal in 1930. Her bravery led to a landmark trial that exposed the extent of the organization's criminal activities and its deep infiltration into Argentine society. The trial resulted in the conviction and imprisonment of several members of the Zwi Migdal, although the organization continued to operate in various forms for years afterward.

Legacy

Raquel Liberman's courageous actions marked a turning point in the fight against human trafficking in Argentina. She became a symbol of resistance against exploitation and a pioneer in the battle for women's rights and social justice. Her story has been the subject of books, plays, and films, serving as an inspiration to those who fight against oppression and inequality.

Death

Raquel Liberman died of cancer on April 7, 1935, in Buenos Aires. Though her life was tragically short, her legacy endures as a testament to the power of resilience and the impact one individual can have on society.