Darfur

Should Olympics Be Used For Darfur?

2008-03-04T16:13:00.001-08:00

As the Olympics approach, do you think they should be used to bring attention to China's role in funding the Sudanese Government?

Should the Olympics be used to protest politically?

Situation in Western Darfur Getting Worse

2008-03-03T13:22:00.000-08:00

Western Darfur has been a source of recent attacks lately. Jebel Moon a specific area affected by the fighting is the home of thousands of people who are unable to escape the fighting between the government and rebels.

The people of Jebel Moon are stuck and without access to aid, they situation will turn grave if they are not able to leave.

The people of Western Darfur need help now.

We must continue to voice are dismay over the lack of help given to this area of he country.

Spielberg Says No to China and The Olympics

2008-02-24T08:21:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Steven Spielberg for pulling out as artistic director of the Olympics in protest of China's involvement in the Sudanese government. It seems Mr. Spielberg has had some impact as China has begun to "suggest" that the government of Sudan let in the complete hybrid UN/AU peacekeeping force.

Now, if more celebrities and athletes stood up and spoke out imagine what could be accomplished.

Like it or not China does have influence over The Sudan.

CT Lobby Day for Darfur w/ Mia Farrow

2008-02-12T14:41:00.000-08:00

Connecticut Teach Against Genocide (CT-TAG) Lobby Day
Date: February 19, 2008
Times: 9:30 am - 2:00 pm

Teach Against Genocide Lobby Day
WHAT

It's a chance to personally ask your State representatives to support legislation that provides every student with the opportunity to learn about past genocides, so that they will know how to prevent future ones. The day will start with speakers, including Mia Farrow, and training on lobbying for this bill.

WHEN

Tuesday, February 19, 2008, 9:30 AM - 2 PM

WHERE

State Capitol, 210 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT

HOW

So that we can schedule your legislative meetings, please RSVP with your name, contact information, district/representatives, and availability, to Danielle Millard at Danielle.Millard@huskymail.uconn.edu. If you cannot attend, please sign the attached petition, and send it to Danielle and it will be given to your representatives during the lobby day.

WHAT IS CT-TAG?

The Connecticut Teach Against Genocide Campaign (CT-TAG) works to pass and help implement legislation to have genocide education included in the curricula of Connecticut secondary schools. The legislation will also appropriate funding to ensure that educators have the necessary training and resources they need to teach this complex subject. For more information, please contact Danielle.

http://www.genocideintervention.net/events/2008/02/19/1447

New Attacks Force Refugees to flee Darfur

2008-02-10T12:13:00.000-08:00

It's February 2008 and the attacks on the people of Darfur continue.

The recent number 12,000.

That's how many refugees have fled Darfur after the latest attack.

This is black history month and it's a great time to learn of the struggles and obstacles overcome by African Americans in the US.

What will history say about what the world let happen to Darfur??

How will we answer when we are asked, "Why didn't anyone help?"

Americares Does Care About Darfur

2008-01-09T09:18:00.000-08:00

Americares is working hard to improve the living conditions of the refugee camps in Chad. With so many people being forced from their homes in Darfur, the population in Chad has expanded too quickly to maintain the proper health of those in the camps.

Americares has given money and medication to try and provide much needed medical help to those in the camps. Health care providers will also be trained so they are better able to help those in need.

The more people in the region are able to take care of themselves, the better the rebuilding efforts will be when the area is finally stabalized.

Another Holiday Season Another Year of Suffering in Darfur

2007-12-21T12:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my birthday and I thought about all the people who aren't able to celebrate a birthday. Some people aren't financially able and some like the people of Darfur are just trying to survive and celebrate each day they're alive.

Another holiday season and another year the people of Darfur live in fear, and another year they won't get what they wish for, peace and the ability to live at home without threat of violence.

Tis the season

Peacekeeping Force On Track In Darfur?

2007-12-20T12:30:00.000-08:00

The holidays are here, and Christmas is days away. While the people of Darfur won’t keep peace for Christmas, the New Year may start of better for them then the past 4 ½ years have been.

The UN/African peacekeeping force is due to arrive in Darfur on January 1, 2008. It’s a beautiful thought to think of the people of Darfur being safe.

The Scheduled date for deployment in January/February

~ Main body of formed police unit from Nepal

~ Battalion, signals unit, engineer unit, and transport company from Egypt

~ Advanced Party of Pakistani Engineer Unit

~ Battalion from Ethiopia
(http://www.innercitypress.com/muletunamidtcc121407.PDF)

I want to believe that this is the beginning of the end to the suffering in Darfur. I hope this will truly be A New Year for all those who have suffered too long in Darfur.

China & Darfur a Deadly Relationship

2007-12-18T08:45:00.000-08:00

Usually when Steven Spielberg speaks people listen, he hopes that rings true when he talks to China about their role in the Defer conflict. There has been accusations that China has provided arms to the Sudanese government, which in turn use the weapons on the innocent victims of Defer.

..” The protest of the displaced in Defer camps should come as a surprise only to Chinese policy makers. The displaced communities have for long time known that the planes, which attack their villages, are Chinese made, and that the bombs that flattened their houses and burnt their huts are supplied by China. The fuel and lubricants that the planes use are produced by Chinese companies. “ (http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/1217/p99s01-duts.html)

While one person or country can’t be blamed for the years of war in Defer, China does have a strong influence on the government of Sudan. If China would take a stand and cease, aiding the government the people of Defer may be able to finally go back home and live in peace.

Like it or not, the money China spends on oil in Defer is converted to war weapons.

Maybe

2007-12-17T11:47:00.000-08:00

“The abductees – many of them children – were held as sex slaves for a month before they managed to escape. Several became pregnant. With no access to health care, pregnancy made some of the women severely ill. Others opted for life-threatening abortions.” Link to this post

Everyday women in Darfur live in fear of being raped, and beaten. Going for water and firewood is a necessity and a dangerous task. It’s during this time that many women and girls are attacked.

I can’t write about this anymore, I’ve grown tired of writing about a topic that so few people care about. I’m frustrated and feel small against the seemingly never-ending war in Darfur. I honestly don’t think people care. People are worried about things in their own lives (rightly so.)

People wonder how they will afford to heat their home, put gas in their car, and food on the table. Maybe it’s these thoughts that keep us from worrying about people so far away. With so many problems facing so many of us, maybe it’s too much to ask people to worry about yet another issue. Maybe once all the other problems improve, maybe then we’ll be able to focus on Darfur, I only hope there will be something left to focus on.

Link for President Bush

2007-12-13T08:52:00.002-08:00

2007-12-13T08:52:00.001-08:00

Send Message to President Bush About Darfur

2007-12-13T07:56:00.000-08:00

http://action.savedarfur.org/campaign/stop_bashir/ixn57wu4vi5t3n8?

Send Message to Bush to urge him to remind President Bashir that he agreed to the UN peacekeepers.

2007-12-13T07:53:00.000-08:00

It seems President Bashir doesn't wish to comply with the UN in regards to peacekeepers. As the launch date gets closer, it seems the stall tactics are becoming greater. The people of Darfur have waited long enough and the peacekeepers must be deployed now.

"Bashir's Broken Promises Must Be Stopped

President Bush must stand up to the Sudanese government's game of lies and violence in order to ensure deployment of the U.N.-A.U. peacekeepers.

Send your message now." (savedarfur.org)

No Holiday For The Children of Darfur

2007-12-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

While most children are getting excited for the holidays and presents, the children of Darfur are hoping for safety and the return to a normal life. "In September, there were 40 cases of sexually transmitted diseases reported in children under five. “ (voanews.com/English/12/12/2007)

It’s a horrible time to be a child in Darfur. It’s deplorable for anyone especially children to live under constant threat of rape and death.

If only Santa could reach Darfur.

Darfur Now, Nothing Has Changed People Still Waiting and Dying

2007-12-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Darfur Now is a powerful documentary that unfortunately people aren’t going to see it. Sand and Sorrow is an HBO special on Darfur narrated by George Clooney. I’m not sure how many people saw that film, I haven’t seen the numbers. I still don’t understand, why people haven’t gotten upset, excited, and moved to do something about what’s going on in Darfur.

Nearly every basic right that we enjoy in this country is being taken away from the people of Darfur. It’s not enough that they were driven for their homes, or that their loved ones were killed. They are now made to live in tents and depend on strangers for their survival.

Not only are the physically drained, but mentally as well. What do the people of Darfur have to live for? When do the people of Darfur begin to loose hope?

Water Shortage Possible Consequence of Darfur War

2007-12-10T09:32:00.001-08:00

Today is human rights day and it saddens me that so many people around the world are having their rights violated. One of the saddest places of course is Darfur. As I have stated before, there are over 2.5 million people living in refugee camps.

Well, now in Northern Darfur a water shortage is becoming a mounting problem. “At some locations - such as Abou Shouk, the largest displaced persons camp in North Darfur and home to more than 54,000 people - water shortages are already a reality.” (all Africa.com/stories/12/10/2007)

In some of the camps in Northern Darfur, people have to stand in long lines for hours to get water. It’s not reasonable to think refugee camps will be able to sustain the ever-growing population.

If an end to the genocide doesn’t come soon, the death tool will begin to rise in these camps do to lack of food and water.

The UN must get a plan together and implement it sooner and not later.

Weekend Activities For Darfur

2007-12-07T17:10:00.000-08:00

WEEKEND ACTIVITIES FOR DARFUR

Torch Relay for Darfur (Olympic Dream for Darfur Event)
Sunday, December 9 at 1:00 PM
Downtown Boca Raton (Boca Raton, FL)

Darfur Awareness Day (Other)
Monday, December 10 at 8:20 AM
University School of NSU (Fort Lauderdale, FL) -
At my school, the University School of NSU

Miami-Dade Dream for Darfur Program - North Dade (Olympic Dream for Darfur Event)
Sunday, December 9 at 5:00 PM
Michael Ann Russell Jewish Community Center (North Miami Beach, FL)

Human Rights Day (Other)
Monday, December 10 at 7:00 PM
1st Congregational Church (Colorado Springs, CO)

Candlelight Vigil (Other)
Monday, December 10 at 6:00 PM
Corner E. North Broadway & High (Columbus, OH)

Warrants For Issued for Men Responsible For Darfur Genocide

2007-12-06T12:46:00.001-08:00

Moreno-OCampo is one of the six people highlighted in the film, Darfur Now. OCampo is the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, and is seeking punishment for those responsible for the displacement of millions of people in Darfur. Ocampo has gotten as far as serving arrest warrants fot two of the main figures responsible for the Genocide.

Ahmad Huran is one of the men deemed responsible for the ongoing war. Recently in a sick twist of fate Huran was promoted to oversee peacekeepers for the displaced people in Darfur. While Ocampo is working feverisly to bring people to justice, the International Criminal Court, has no power to bring people to trial, which begs the question why isn’t the ICC granted more power?

My Fast For Darfur

2007-12-05T09:27:00.001-08:00

Today I observed the fast for Darfur. I only fasted during the morning, because I have to take medication. Having not eaten for only a few hours, it became painfully clear what people who have no food go through. Today’s fast was to protest the lack of security the women in Darfur have received. It’s tragic the number of women who have been raped during this ongoing war.

Rape, hunger, and ultimately death have been the life of Darfur civilians driven from their homes and forced to live in refugee camps.

A citizen in a refugee camp spoke one of the saddest lines I ever heard in a movie. She said, “Soon the white man will come and arrest those that have done these horrible things, and we will be saved.”

The people of Darfur have not lost faith and hope in humanity to come and help them.

Divestment in Darfur to Stop Genocide

2007-12-04T16:36:00.001-08:00

Mia Farrow Starts Fund 4 Darfur

2007-12-04T12:27:00.000-08:00

Actress/Activist Mia Farrow has started a new fund to help Darfur. The organization, Fund 4 Darfur was started to help aid the over 2.5 million displaced people who depend on humanitarian aid for survival. Specifically, the money donated will be used to help survivors of the Darfur genocide.

Mia Farrow conveyed her dismay over the lack of outrage regarding the situation in Darfur. "One white woman in peril with a teddy bear has captured more media attention than the past three years of our brothers and sisters in the Darfur region," she said. "I look back at what we were doing during the Rwanda situation and in America we were watching the O J Simpson trial."

Good causes will always have to fight for their place in the media spotlight, it’s unfortunate that time and resources are wasted on stories of little relevance, like Brittany Spears, and Paris Hilton.

Thank you Ms. Farrow, it's nice when you hear of someone using their celebrity status for something so worthwhile

Darfur National Action Week

2007-12-03T08:36:00.001-08:00

This is Darfur National Action Week. The situation in Darfur has not improved; people are still not able to go home. Darfur refugees are still living in crowded camps depending on aid workers for food.

It is true, there are problems in every country, but there are enough good people in the world to fix the not jus tone, but many issues. During Darfur National Action Week, speak out about the violence that is still ongoing.

If you would like to get more involved, you can contact your state representatives and urge them to continue to work with the UN to solve this problem before more blood is shed.

Thank You

Motive Behind Save Darfur

2007-11-29T09:08:00.000-08:00

While there has been recent debate on the motives of the Save Darfur Coalition it’s tragic that this is what we take from the situation. The source of the debate is seemingly the way the war is classified as Africans vs. Arabs.

One article goes on to say this is about the oil in Sudan and other natural resources, I say that may be one issue, but the biggest issue is helping the people of Darfur.

There is a war in Darfur, there are people dying by the thousands, there are people displaced; these are facts. What may be n question is the reason behind proposed help. I know our group The Connecticut Coalition to Save Darfur; give our money to Americares what of the best agencies around.

We will continue to raise awareness for Darfur and other parts of the world in need.

George Clooney & Don Cheadle Awarded for Darfur Work

2007-11-28T09:23:00.001-08:00

George Clooney and Don Cheadle will receive the Peace Summit Award in December. The award was given based on the work the two actors have done on behalf of Darfur. Both actors can be seen in the film Darfur Now.

It’s nice to see celebrities use their status for something positive. We need more public figures to stand for something, and try to make the world a better place. I urge everyone to see Darfur Now it’s an amazing film.

Corporate Sponsors It's Time To Speak Up for Darfur

2007-11-27T10:30:00.001-08:00

As the start of the Olympics in Beijing get closer, the protest of its host gets louder. Eighteen large corporate sponsors were graded on their relationship with China. The results were disappointing.

"Our major conclusions were that the corporate Olympic sponsors are engaged in a form of silent complicity with the Chinese government in its support of genocide," said Ellen Freudenheim, who conducted research for the project. (Reuters.com)

All it would take is for these sponsors to voice their concern about China’s relationship with the government of Sudan. “There is no way Khartoum could thumb its nose at the entire international community and the United Nations as well without the full knowledge that it is being backed by China," said actress Mia Farrow, a Darfur activist. (Reuters.com)

There is still time and hope for the Olympic Sponsors to voice there concerns.

The corporate sponsors included in the survey are:

McDonalds and Adidas Atos Origin, Lenovo, Manulife, Panasonic, Samsung, Swatch, Anheuser-Busch, BHP Billiton, Eastman Kodak, Microsoft, Staples, Visa and Volkswagen, Coca-Cola, Johnson & Johnson and UPS (Reuters.com)

Let’s not help this Genocide continue.

No Welcome Mat For China in DArfur

2007-11-26T09:29:00.000-08:00

China has sent peacekeepers to Darfur, but they are not welcomed according to the rebels. This situation has turned into a quandary. The rebels don’t want China to supply the peacekeepers because they see China as an ally to the government forces who have brutalized their people.

China is the largest buyer of oil in Sudan and their money enables the government to fund their army. Therefore, it’s understandable that the rebels made up of victims of the governments violence, would be skeptical of Chinese peacekeepers. The problem is the government will only allow certain groups into the country.

The government doesn’t want foreigners except China in the country and the rebels don’t want China.

So, it looks like another stalemate.

Still Waiting for a Blessing in Darfur

2007-11-23T12:38:00.000-08:00

The day after Thanksgiving when we are all eating wonderful leftovers I think about the starving people throughout the world, and my heart goes out to them. My heart goes out to the homeless and the victims of crime.

As a member of the Connecticut Coalition to Save Darfur, my heart is heavy when I think of the victims of Genocide in Darfur.

The 2.5 million plus people living in refugee camps in Africa depend on the aid workers to eat, and survive. These relief agencies work with a daily threat of violence.

If Genocide is a concern purchase a t-shirt to show you support of ending the Genocide.

I'm Thankful I live in the USA

2007-11-21T17:15:00.000-08:00

I’m Thankful for Living in the USA
I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving. I'm thankful for:

My two healthy boys.

Having a job and the means to put a roof over our heads and food in our mouths.

I'm thankful that I can come and go without being attacked.

I'm thankful I'm not a citizen of Darfur. I'm also thankful that there are people fighting to bring peace to Darfur, so that someday soon they will be thankful to be were they are.

Rwanda & Darfur a Failed History Lesson

2007-11-20T12:58:00.000-08:00

The genocide in Rwanda took 100 days, and the world watched and did nothing. There was an estimated 800,000 citizens of Rwanda killed. The people of Rwanda were killed and those that survived temporarily later died in refugee camps. The history of Rwanda is tragic enough, but the fact that we didn’t learn makes it even more tragic. The conditions in Darfur have lasted four years, and there is still no end in site.

"... The world must deeply repent this failure. Rwanda's tragedy was the world's tragedy. All of us who cared about Rwanda, all of us who witnessed its suffering, fervently wish that we could have prevented the genocide. Looking back now, we see the signs, which then were not recognized. Now we know that what we did was not nearly enough--not enough to save Rwanda from itself, not enough to honor the ideals for which the United Nations exists. We will not deny that, in their greatest hour of need, the world failed the people of Rwanda ..." (U.N. Secretary-General, Kofi Annan speech)

"... the international community, together with nations in Africa, must bear its share of responsibility for this tragedy, as well. We did not act quickly enough after the killing began. We should not have allowed the refugee camps to become safe havens for the killers. We did not immediately call these crimes by their rightful name: genocide. We cannot change the past. But we can and must do everything in our power to help you build a future without fear, and full of hope ..." (President Bill Clinton speech)

Watch the PBS special tonight at 9pm Frontline: A story of Darfur

When Your Children Ask about the Genocide in Darfur, What will YOU say?

2007-11-19T12:24:00.001-08:00

When your children, and grandchildren study the genocide of Darfur in the future, what will you tell them when they ask why no one helped? As a child reading about the holocaust made me angry, seeing a film like Sophie’s Choice made me sick, and I couldn’t imagine living in a time in which something as vile as genocide was allowed to occur.

Now, whether people want to acknowledge it as a genocide the reality is, the people of Darfur, have been rapped, beaten and murdered. They have been driven from their homes. Those that have survived initially are living in overcrowded refugee camps. They depend on food from relief organizations to survive. If forces are able to halt the relief efforts and prohibit them from completing their deliveries the people in the camps will not eat, and they will die.

They cannot survive indefinitely in the camps. There is not enough sanitation, or even living space. The story of Darfur will be written in history books, and our children will ask how we let this happen.

There is a PBS Frontline special on Tuesday, November 20 9pm on Darfur called On Our Watch.

Frontline On Our Watch Story of Darfur

2007-11-18T07:45:00.000-08:00

Letter From Don Cheadle Darfur Now

2007-11-16T14:03:00.000-08:00

Below is a copied letter from Don Cheadle regarding his new film Darfur Now. The film is opening in CT today and will be playing at Bow-Tie Cinemas in Hartford (860-549-0030)(Brainard Rd.), and Garden Cinemas Norwalk. (203-846-8795)

Dear Vonda,

Thank you for your continued efforts to bring an end to the conflict in Darfur. I hope that you can join me in getting the word out about the new documentary "Darfur Now".

Darfur Now is a story of hope amid one of humanity's darkest hours. It shows how the work of six people can make a difference in Darfur, and how our voices united can bring an end to the unspeakable horrors the people of Darfur face every day.

It follows the achievements of a Darfuri woman, a community leader in West Darfur, a UCLA graduate, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, a U.N. humanitarian aid worker, and an actor and activist (me).
As you may know, a film's opening weekend is extremely important and determines the exposure it gets. Darfur Now opens this weekend, but only in selected cities. Come watch the movie and bring your friends so we can ensure a nationwide release, help educate people about the crisis in Darfur, and empower them to help end it.

Sincerely,

Don Cheadle, Not On Our Watch

Senator Obama's Plans to Address Issues

2007-11-15T10:27:00.000-08:00

“The Illinois Senator, Obama, listed climate change, nuclear weapons, poverty, HIV and AIDS and the genocide in Darfur as issues he plans to address.” (examiner.com)

Do you agree with the senator’s list of issues?

What do feel is the biggest issue the next president of the United States will face? Aside from the Iraq war, which is clearly the biggest issue, facing our country today, and most likely a year from now?

It is time the real issues of the people are addressed. It’s time the politicians stop taking care of their own agenda and start taking care of the needs of their people. It’s time the media stops wasting resources reporting on Brittney Spears, and report real stories about real problems.

We have a say on how our country is run! If they won’t listen, the first time say it repeatedly until someone listens.

Darfur on PBS 9pm Tonight with Mia Farrow

2007-11-14T11:28:00.000-08:00

Tonight on PBS Frontline will feature a story on Darfur. The program is titled “On Our Watch.” and features Mia Farrow. Mia has visited Darfur on several occasions and tells about what she has personally seen.

Mia explains, “On my first trip, I met a woman whose husband and children were murdered. She told me“, “Tell people what is happening here.” (TV Guide/Nov 19 issue)

Visit Mia Farrow’s website at miafarrow.org for pictures and information on Darfur.

Darfur Events This Weekend Stop By

2007-11-09T12:04:00.001-08:00

It’s Friday, whooo hooo. Everyone enjoy the weekend. If you have no weekend plans, there are several events occurring this weekend to support Darfur.

Rock for Darfur: State Radio @ House of Blues
Saturday, November 10 at 6:00 PM
House of Blues (Chicago, IL)

Rock for Darfur: Enter the Haggis @ Martyr's
Saturday, November 10 at 10:00 PM
Martyr's (Chicago, IL)

Rock for Darfur: Emmit Nershi Band @ Abbey Pub
Saturday, November 10 at 8:00 PM
Abbey Pub (Chicago, IL)

Wisconsin/Milwaukee Torch Relay (Olympic Dream for Darfur Event)
Sunday, November 11 at 4:00 PM
Holocaust Memorial (Milwaukee, WI)

Nov.11,2007 (Meeting)
Sunday, November 11 at 5:00 PM
Temple Church (Nashville, TN)

UM Sprint for Darfur
Sunday, November 11 at 1:00 PM
University of Miami (Miami, FL)

Genocide In The Human Heart: (Forum)
Saturday, November 10 at 2:00 PM
walla walla public library (Walla Walla, WA)

Fundraiser (Other)
Saturday, November 10 at 8:00 PM
Ailey Studios (New York, NY)

If you’re in the area drop by.
Happy Weekend Everyone!!!!

Darfur Events This Weekend Stop By

2007-11-09T12:04:00.000-08:00

Connecticut Residents the Coaltion for Darfur Needs You

2007-11-08T11:13:00.000-08:00

I am a member of the Connecticut Coalition to Save Darfur, our organization meets monthly and maintains a website at ctsavedarfur.org. Our group believes together we can pool resources that will eventually bring peace to the long suffering people of Darfur.

We hold events to educate, raise awareness and funds for Darfur. If you are a resident of Connecticut and are interested in joining our group email me, or sign up on our website.

We need all the help we can get.

The Crisis in Darfur, What's the Answer?

2007-11-07T14:57:00.000-08:00

“The real question, therefore, is not why the crisis in Darfur persists, but whether we will collectively do what’s necessary to end it.” (savedarfur.org)

There have been books written about the subject, and movies, the newest being Darfur Now.

The effort persists, yet the violence continues. So, what’s the answer? Let people continue to be murdered, simply because of who they are? Do we say there’s nothing we can do, and not let their problems enter our thoughts?

We are paying for the it’s not my problem mentality with global warming, that is also a factor in the Darfur tragedy. The land that was once farmed has been decimated by drought. There is less land to farm, so the prime land is fought over.

I don’t know the answers, I just know if people are being mistreated, it’s wrong and I would want someone to speak up for me if I couldn’t speak up for myself.

Darfur Now Movie Clooney, Don Cheadle

2007-11-06T15:27:00.001-08:00

New Movie Darfur Now.

The Olympic Torch Relay Continues

2007-11-06T15:01:00.000-08:00

With the 2008 Olympics being held in Beijing China, there are several events across the world aimed at bringing attention to China and their part in assisting the soldiers in Sudan. The fact is without the financial backing of China the government of Sudan would not be able to buy arms they use.

The Olympic Torch Relays are currently spreading across the country. Tomorrow in Portland Oregon, their activities for the Torch Relay will begin.

“Wed. 11/7 - All day Camp Darfur for middle and high school students to visit hosted by Lincoln High School STAND in SW. Survivors from Cambodia, Rwanda, the Holocaust, Armenian descendants and Darfur will be available to speak to students and walk through Camp Darfur. We would like a large cross section of schools from Multnomah, Clackamas, Clarke and Washington Counties.” (savedarfur.org)

See the following link Camp Darfur for more information.

This is an excellent chance to get informed, and show your support for Darfur.

Waxploitation CD to Benefit Darfur

2007-11-05T10:41:00.000-08:00

Waxploitation is releasing Causes 1: Darfur, a collection of 14 songs available on Itunes starting November 27. The music will only be available for 90 days, but may also be purchased in CD form by pre order.

The proceeds (100%) will benefit non-profit organizations, Doctors without Borders, Human Rights Watch, and Oxfam America.

The tracklist for the collection:

01. Safer (Exclusive Live Version) - Animal Collective
02. Stay All Night (Exclusive Chulahoma Session) - Black Keys
03. Rhododendrons - Bloc Party
04. Coat Check Dream Song (Exclusive Live Version) - Bright Eyes
05. Wataridori (Exclusive Piano Version) - Cornelius
06. Late Night Shopping (Exclusive Chris Vrenna Remix) - David Sylivan
07. World Shut Your Mouth (Rare Julian Cope Cover) - Death Cab For Cutie
08. Washington Bullets- (International) Noise Conspiracy
09. The Walk (Exclusive Live Version) - The Cure
10. Turn On Me (Exclusive Clint Mansell Remix) - The Shins
11. Rhthm And Soul (Exclusive Middle Version) - Spoon
12. One Day Across The Valley - Teargas abd Plateglass
13. Passing The Stars- Thievery Corporation
14. Gimme Some Truth (Exclusive John Lennon Cover) - Travis
(http://prod1.cmj.com/articles/display_article.php?id=51047325)

For further information visit:
www.waxploitation.com/2007/causes.html

Darfur Now Film Opens Today

2007-11-02T15:11:00.000-07:00

Darfur Now opens today in Los Angeles and New York. The film is a must see for those interested in the Darfur saga.

The film tells six different stories one involves a mother who joined the rebel force after watching her son beaten to death. Ahmed Mohammed Abakar use to be a farmer and builder, and now is living in a refugee camp.

The film is a testament to what people can do when they try, and work together.

Refugee Camps in Darfur, No Treat

2007-11-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

My boys went trick or treating last night, and received way too much candy as usual. We went to the same neighborhood we’ve always went to, the area in which their great grandmother lives. The neighborhood is safe, and their father grew up there everyone knows everyone. There is stability in the lives of my children, and I’m grateful for that.

The children and people of Darfur don’t have that luxury. They were first driven from their homes, and now are being driven from the refugee camps, they have tried to make home. Since 2005, the government has tried to close camps near cities in favor of camps in more remote locations.

"Our biggest fear is that this is going to continue," she said. "Even if it doesn't continue in the next week there is obviously a pattern here. It happens once, there's outcry, they stop trying to move people for a few months, then they try a new method of pressure" (http://voanews.com/english/2007-11-01-voa43.cfm)

Moving Darfur refugees to remote camps is at the least an attempt to break their spirits, and at worse to make it difficult for food and aid to reach the people. It’s sad that there has to be a fight for people to stay in refugee camps.

These Are a Treat To Darfur

2007-10-31T14:37:00.000-07:00

First, Happy Halloween to all. In honor of the day, I wanted to point out what a ‘treat’ some groups have been to the people of Darfur.

Kuwaiti Red Crescent Society
UNICEF
Doctors Without Borders
SaveDarfur
Americares
Don Cheadle (actor who has done a lot for Darfur currently in the new documentary Darfur Now)

There are many other organizations helping the victims and it’s nice to know acknowledge and honor those who work tirelessly to help others.

Paging the UN: Darfur Needs You, Now

2007-10-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

“Darfur is the world's largest ongoing humanitarian operation, helping more than 2,5 million refugees caught in fighting between the Sudanese government and rebels. “ (http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/Vote2008/story?id=3791358&page=1)
The genocide in Darfur is like nothing that currently afflicts any other part of the world, although genocide is a constant threat in many places.

I understand the call for the US to help those in our country, and the frustration by some American citizens with the US role as “caretaker” of the world. Yet, I believe that issues have to be prioritized, even people are being murdered in mass numbers, does the world not have an obligation to step in and say, stop this is wrong. Doesn’t anyone care that children are being beaten out of heir mother’s arms?

There is indeed plenty of suffering in our own country (US), but I’ve never run from armed men, or feared for my safety from the governments military.

If you were driving through another state, on your way home and saw a person being beaten on the side of the road, would you call the police, or would you say not my problem, because I don’t live here?

“The United Nations (UN) is an international organization whose stated aims are to facilitate cooperation in international law, international security, economic development, social progress and human rights issues.” (wilkipidea.com)

This is not a United States issue, it is a United Nations problem that must be resolved, for the safety of the people of Darfur, and the world. I just believe the United Nations should do what it has promised to do, and I think the United States should voice our displeasure that it has taken years to protect the people of Darfur.

Darfur, Who Cares?

2007-10-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

I post my blog to share information on the ongoing struggle of the people of Darfur. Some days I wonder why I bother, I wonder if anyone is reading, or if anyone cares. I’ve heard, “There are plenty of problems in the US we need to worry about.” “The United States can’t save everyone.”

If I could I’d work to save all the people who suffer in the world, but it’s not possible. What separates the Darfur situation from the countless other tragedies in the world is the magnitude of the brutality.

There are millions of people living in unsafe refugee camps. There have been hundreds of thousands of people killed, and they cannot turn to their government for help.

Who’s responsible for the safety of millions of people?

Peace in Darfur?

2007-10-27T19:06:00.001-07:00

“Too many people in Darfur have suffered for too long. Even as we sit here, I keep asking myself, how many more people have to die for us to know that it is the right time to make peace in Darfur.” (DR SALIM AHMED SALIM, The Sudan Tribune)

The peace talks began today, and while the majority forces are not present, the government has declared a cease-fire. Let’s hope the talks will turn to action and the cease-fire will hold. Maybe tonight the people of Darfur can rest in peace.

Not Even Talk of Peace

2007-10-26T16:33:00.000-07:00

As feared, the major groups in Darfur have announced they will boycott the peace talks that are scheduled to begin tomorrow. The situation in Darfur has deteriorated to the point where groups cannot agree to talk about peace.

So, with peace talks likely ineffective due to the lack of attendance, what’s the next step? The UN has promised a force due to arrive in Africa next year sometime.

Maybe if we wait long enough, there won’t be anyone left to save in Darfur.

Hostages Taken in Darfur

2007-10-25T12:36:00.000-07:00

After months of pleading with China to use its economic and political influence with Sudan to help the people of Darfur, the pleading has turned into demands. In an unfortunate event, two people have been taken hostage in an attack on an oil field in the Kordofan region.

Darfur rebels have warned all foreign companies that they have a week to get out of the area and stop doing business with Khartoum. Chinese companies are specific targets to the threats. The rebels accuse China of providing the funds that are used to purchase weapons to Khartoum.

Violence has begot violence and the rebels say they are defending the women and children of Darfur who are being murdered by weapons purchased with China’s money.

This is not the solution to ending the violence, and the conditions are getting worse by the hour in Darfur. An intervention is needed and if a peace, agreement is not reached immediately the death toll will rise astronomically.

Click here now to send President Bush and Secretary-General Ban a timely reminder that failure is not an option.

Genocide Survivors At The Olympic Torch Relay

2007-10-23T16:28:00.000-07:00

Sunday October 21, 2007 I attended the Olympic Torch Relay in Hartford, CT. Words will do injustice to the emotions I felt listening to the survivors of genocides speak of the horror they survived. There were survivors from past genocides in Rwanda, The Holocaust, Bosnia, Armenia, Sudan, and, Cambodia.

When you listen to their stories you wonder how anyone can stand by and watch as it happens again despite the hollow words of, “never again.”

The people of Darfur are not asking for a handout. The people of Darfur are asking not to be raped, and murdered.

Why won’t anyone protect them???

Visit savedarfur.org for locations of Olympic Torch Relays, and participate if you are fortunate enough to have one in your hometown.

Genocide Survivors at Olympic Torch Relay

2007-10-23T16:27:00.001-07:00

Ask China to Help Darfur

2007-10-18T12:16:00.000-07:00

As we know, the Olympics will be held in Bejing in 2008. China holds a lot of power in the Darfur situation, and as the host of the Olympics it's time for China to exhibit the Olympic spirit.
"Olympism is a philosophy of life, exalting and combining in a balanced whole the qualities of body, will and mind. Blending sport with culture and education, Olympism seeks to create a way of life based on the joy found in effort, the educational value of good example and respect for universal fundamental ethical principles."
(Olympic Charter 2004, Fundamental Principles, paragraph 1)

While athletes representing their countries will compete for medals in the Olympics, people of Darfur are competiting for their lives.

If you believe China should do all it can to help the people of Darfur, visit the site below to sign the petition and don't forget to visit savedarfur.org to find Olympic Torch Relays in your area.

http://action.savedarfur.org/campaign/china_must_act

Thanks for your help

Events for Darfur Come to Connecticut

2007-10-16T12:13:00.000-07:00

Author Jane Wells has traveled to Rawanda and Darfur and written several articles for publications including Vogue magazine. Ms. Wells will be speaking in Westport, CT at the Unitarian Church, on Thursday October 18 from 11:30 am-2pm. Gretchen Steidle Wallace will also appear and the two will speak, on "Women Surviving Genocide; Social Entrepreneurship as a path to Recovery."

For more information on the film or other "Days for Darfur", awareness events taking place in Fairfield County, visit www.stamford.ucomm.ued/darfursupport or call 203-329-1919.

In addition, The Devil Came on Horseback will be showing on Monday, Oct. 22, at the Garden Cinema in Norwalk, CT.

Lastly, the Olympic Torch Relay will take place in Hartford, CT on October 21, 2007. The Relay will start at 2pm and will feature Gabriel Bol Deng, Founder and Director of H.O.P.E for Sudan and one of the “Lost Boys” of the Sudan. David Morse, Author and International Activist Survivors of the Holocaust and of the Armenian, Bosnian, Cambodian, and Rwandan genocides, Ian Campbell, Musician, as well as other genocide survivors.

The Torch Relay will be held at Minuteman Park in Hartford, CT 311 Capitol Ave.

(Visit savedarfur.org, select Olympic Torch Relay for more information on the event.)

Will There Be Peace Talks?

2007-10-15T14:56:00.000-07:00

Riak Mashar on behalf of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM) delivered a letter to the National Congress Party and President Beshir, who refused to receive the letter. The letter is thought to contain a request that the government upholds the peace treaty signed in 2005.

The SPLM want the Khartoum's troops out of South Sudan. The NCP accuses the SPLM of failing to implement the peace treaty. Both sides have forces around Abiye, an oil rich area. At anytime fighting can break out among the two sides bringing to an end the scheduled peace talks October 27, 2007.

"Some 236,000 Darfur refugees now live in Chad along the border with Sudan, and around 173,000 of Chad's population are currently living in camps, the UN said. " (En.Rian.ru/world/20071015.com)

Any increase in violence will be detrimental to the already overpopulated camps.

Also remember the Olympic Torch Relay is happening around the country. This Sunday the relay will be in Hartford, CT at the Minuteman Park. (see savedarfur.org for a schedule of all the Olympic Torch Relay's) Drop by and show your support.

Save Dafur Now: Voices to Stop Genocide

2007-09-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

On September 17, there will be a rally in New York, Save Darfur Now: Voices to Stop Genocide. The rally is to urge the UN to send the peacekeepers into Darfur now. The rally will take place in Central Park the parks East Meadow’s. The rally will take place between 2-5pm.

There is also a pre-rally at 12:45 p.m. with a special service at All Souls church.

The expected attendees include:

MUSICAL PERFORMANCES BY:
O.A.R.
Suzanne Vega
Lupe Fiasco
Big & Rich
Berklee College of Music Ensemble

SPEAKERS (Note: Additional speakers and entertainers expected to be announced)
Dr. Madeleine Albright, former U.S. Secretary of State
Dr. Irwin Cotler, former Canadian Minister of Justice and Attorney General
Joey Cheek, 2006 Olympic gold-medalist speed skater
Jeff Johnson, BET, Hip Hop 4 Darfur
Joe Madison, host, “The Black Eagle” radio show
Larry Cox, executive director, Amnesty International USA
Rabbi Steve Gutow, executive director, Jewish Council for Public Affairs
Imam al-Hajj Talib Abdur-Rashid, The Mosque Of The Islamic Brotherhood
Representatives from 11 national Darfuri organizations
John Prendergast, senior advisor, International Crisis Group
Rev. Gloria White-Hammond, MD, chairwoman, Million Voices for Darfur campaign
David Rubenstein, coordinator, Save Darfur Coalition

If you’re in New York please stop by and take a stand to end the Genocide.

More information at savedarfur.org/now

Hagga Haroun another Life Taken in Darfur

2007-08-31T11:15:00.000-07:00

Hagga Abbas Haroun lived in a village in the Southern part of Darfur called the Nyala Region. After witnessing her aunt, uncle, and cousin killed, she fled north to Egypt. Egypt provided a reprieve from the violence; but it was overcrowded, and provided little hope for a sustainable future.

Haroun and the group she was traveling with made it to the Egyptian border. They rested for the night waiting for their chance to cross over into Israel where they hoped they could start a new life and raise their family.

Hagga Abbas Haroun never made it to Israel, none of the group did. Those that were not killed as Hagga was were captured and held in Egypt denied admittance into Israel. Hagga’s daughter Samar survived and now stays with a relative. With her mother dead, and her father still in Egypt the live they hoped to make for their daughter is gone.

The people of Darfur have been chased from their homes, when they flee to Chad sometimes the violence follows; they’ve run all the way to Israel only to be met with more violence or turned away. Where are these people to go? It’s not as if they have abounded their homes or left to pursue riches of another country.

The Darfur refugees have been forced from their homes, and now struggle to find safety. Until the United Nations does what is right, and necessary for the people of Darfur, they will continue to live in fear as they search for a safe place to call home.

Will the UN Peacekeepers be allowed in Darfur?

2007-08-29T16:14:00.000-07:00

Resolution 1769 authorizes a UN- African hybrid peacekeeping force. The resolution was passed in July. While this is great news for the people of Darfur, a similar resolution was passed last year and Sudan refused to let the peacekeepers enter the country. This was the first time a UN authorized force was turned away.

There is an established time frame for the deployment of the troops and December 31 is the deadline. This deployment must happen if there is any hope for the people of Darfur to return home. Everyday that passes without help from the UN the possibility of life returning back to normal for the people of Darfur slips further away.

Visit savedarfur.org for more information on resolution 1769.

Life in Darfur

2007-08-27T09:37:00.001-07:00

Living in the United States it’s hard to imagine what life is like in Darfur. Even during the best times, life in Darfur is difficult with constant drought, and challenging farming conditions. The people are accustomed to living in the only place they know. When the government began using more money for the military, and Northern Darfur, the people in the south asked for equity.

The reply from the government was the unleashing of the Janjaweed who went about raping, and killing the Dafurians. The women and girls must venture out to wells to get drinking water for the village while trying to avoid the Janjaweed. Men do not go for water for fear of being murdered.

The fact is, no one should live in fear of getting his or her basic needs met.

A great website that shows a glimpse of what life is like for the people of Darfur can be found at, http://www.darfurisdying.com/.

China, The Olympics, & Darfur

2007-08-24T11:41:00.001-07:00

The Olympics being held in Beijing has caused many to protest China’s involvement in the genocide in Darfur. Some feel this is the perfect opportunity to pressure China into ceasing its support of the Sudanese government and army. Some question if the Olympics is the right form to stage political protest.

The Olympics is about sportsmanship, and world competition. Joey Cheek a US Olympic Medal Winner delivered a petition with 40,000 signatures to the Chinese Embassy. On the eve of hosting the biggest international festival in the world, China must be conscious of its image. The world is coming to China and so are the critical eyes who wonder why China has not done more for the victims in Darfur.

“The goal of Olympism is to place sport at the service of the harmonious development of man, with a view to promoting a peaceful society concerned with the preservation of human dignity.” (The Olympic Charter)

Joey Cheek’s organization is wherewillwebe.org

China, The Olympics, & Darfur

2007-08-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

Olympic Torch Relay

2007-08-23T11:31:00.000-07:00

Olympic Torch Relay for Darfur

In the past China has aided the Sudanese government by selling weapons, and providing weapon-manufacturing factories. China has also vetoed previous UN sanctions aimed at aiding the victims of genocide in Darfur. To China's credit, they now have agreed to send military engineers to Sudan to help implement the peace treaty.

While China has begun to make changes, the world wants to send a message to the host of the 2008 Olympics. The message is, "China, bring the Olympic Spirit to Darfur."

The Olympic Torch Relay began this month in a refugee camp in Chad. Actress Mia Farrow lit the torch and began the ceremony. The torch will continue on to genocide sites: Rwanda, Armenia, Bosnia, Germany and Cambodia. The symbolic torch will also go through the United States.

The tentative schedule to date for The Olympic Torch Relay in the United States is as follows:

Sept 9, 2007 New York

Oct. 7, 2007 Boston

Oct. 7, 2007 Concord, NH

Oct 8, 2007 Pittsburgh

Oct 13, 2007 Cincinnati

Oct. 21, 2007 Des Moines

Oct. 21, 2007 Hartford, CT

Oct. 21, 2007 Chicago

Oct 28, 2007 Nebraska

(See SaveDarfur.Org for details)

Darfur the Crisis in Pictures

2007-08-18T08:33:00.000-07:00

The Janjaweed are Arab Militias. They patrol Darfur making sure the African Darfurians who have survived the genocide, are not able to return home.

Darfur The People Are Still Waiting, Hoping, For Help

2007-08-17T07:37:00.001-07:00

The Genocide in Darfur continues. Some bad things tht happen can't be helped, it's life, but this thing, this Genocide this most definately can be helped, and must be helped.

What does Darfur Mean to You?

2007-08-16T12:21:00.000-07:00

What is Darfur?