The Catholic peace activist who was injured during a protest in Buffalo, is a familiar name to the Viatorians.
Martin Gugino is a retired IT professional, who was protesting discrimination and racism at the most recent rally, but he regularly demonstrates for justice, for issues ranging from fair housing and human rights, to eliminating torture and abortion.
Martin Gugino, left, with his cousin, Tom Gugino of Las Vegas.
That’s how his first cousin, Tom Gugino — an active parishioner at St. Viator Catholic Community in Las Vegas — describes him.
“Martin has been protesting for 30 years, so this wasn’t his first time protesting a social justice issue,” Tom Gugino says. “I am not surprised Martin was on the frontlines of a protest as he has been protesting for most of his life.”
The Gugino family connections with the Viatorians go even further. Anthony Gugino, Tom’s son, is a Viatorian associate who is active in music and youth ministries, while his twin brother, Tommy will make his commitment as a Viatorian associate this year. Both have participated in the Viatorian Youth Congress, which promotes leadership and social justice in its young delegates.
“Viatorians are committed to peaceful protest against racism and all forms of oppression,” says Br. Michael Gosch, Assistant Provincial and Coordinator of Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation for the Viatorian Community.