Héctor Abad Gómez
Héctor Abad Gómez | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1921 |
| Died | 25 August 1987 (aged 66) Medellín, Colombia |
| Cause of death | Assassination |
| Education | University of Antioquia University of Minnesota |
| Occupation(s) | Medical doctor, university professor, journalist, and human rights leader |
| Political party | Colombian Liberal Party |
| Children | Six, including Héctor Abad Faciolince |
| Medical career | |
| Institutions | University of Antioquia |
Héctor Abad Gómez (1921 – August 25, 1987) was a Colombian medical doctor, university professor, and human rights leader who founded the Colombian National School of Public Health. He developed practical public health programs for the poor in Medellín, where he particularly advocated for quality water, vaccinations, and human rights for the poor. He was characterised by his humanist views.
Abad is known for saying "the murderers don't know how to do: to use words to express the truth – a truth that will last longer than their lie." For his views and perceived leftist ideas, Abad was murdered in August 1987 by paramilitary groups.