Martín-Baró was: a prominent scholar who studied in Europe, the United States, and Latin America; a prolific writer of numerous books and more than 100 articles; and a gifted speaker. Working and living among the Salvadoran people, he dedicated his life to the cause of human rights, equality, and social justice in El Salvador. Recognizing the devastating impact of U.S. policy toward his adopted country, he visited and spoke to many U.S. organizations, stressing our obligation to speak out against U.S. collusion with the Salvadoran oligarchy and military. He had a profound influence on a wide range of academics ,and activists in the United States and beyond.

Through his advocacy, research, and rehabilitation programs, Martín-Baró worked to heal the individual and collective scars of war and oppression. Shortly before his death, he had made plans to open a polyclinic to serve children and adult survivors of torture and war. In addition to his solidarity with the people of El Salvador, Martín-Baró was also a central figure in efforts to establish an international network of individuals and organizations working at the intersections of human rights and mental health.