Mr. Mondragon began working for human rights during the 1960s, as a volunteer for homeless families that lived in illegally occupied slums with very poor living conditions. Some of his other human rights involvements have included work with oil workers and migrant workers. He has been working as an advisor for indigenous and small farmers’ organizations for years, and as a consequence of this work, he received death threats.

Hector has worked as a consultant for members of the Colombian Congress as well as for the 1991 National Constituent Assembly. He helped draft legislation to address indigenous rights, peasants’ rights, and human rights. International entities, such as the Organization of American States and the World Bank, have occasionally contracted him as a consultant for issues related to indigenous rights and the rights of small farmers.

Hector continues his work but changes houses weekly and travels frequently.

Along with millions of Colombians, Hector continues to struggle peacefully for the poor, the indigenous, small farmers, workers and human rights. He says, "They deserve all our sacrifices, even if that includes the sacrifice of our own lives."