Dora: A Daughter of Unforgiving Terrain presents the extraordinary survival story of Dora Rodriguez, who at nineteen years old became one of only thirteen survivors of a 1980 desert crossing through Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Fleeing the civil war in El Salvador, Dora’s search for safety led her into new dangers, where she would face life-threatening conditions that changed her understanding of resilience and compassion. Her harrowing journey became a defining moment that would shape her lifelong commitment to serving others.
Today, as Founder and Director of Salvavision, Dora uses her testimony to shed light on the realities of forced migration while celebrating the strength required to survive, rebuild, and dedicate one’s life to helping others. Her story offers profound insights into the human cost of political violence and the transformative power of turning trauma into service. Join us for this moving evening that promises to deepen understanding and honor the resilience of those who risk everything to find safety. Books will be available for purchase, and Dora will sign copies following the presentation.
