Violence in Darfur and its' surroundings (murder, rape and displacement, by the janjaweed, of unarmed farming families) has reached levels not seen since the beginning of the genocide more than 5 years ago. South Sudan, rich in oil, could be the site of the second genocide of this century.
China has refused to suspend transfers of arms to Sudan until El Bashir's government brings the atrocities to a halt. El Bashir has been backing away from all peace agreements.
In coming weeks, Congress will vote on an emergency supplemental funding bill for protection and aid. World food prices have skyrocketed. The World Food Program has announced (per an American Jewish World Service report) that rations will have to be cut in half, due to costs and endangerments to those who deliver humanitarian services to Darfur.
President Bush has threatened to veto the bill if it contains a penny more than he originally requested.
Congress must do its' share, the U.S.' fair share, to ensure adequate funding for aid.
Please, call the excellent Senator Chuck Schumer (212-486-4430), and/or Senator Hillary Clinton's headquarters (703-469-2008), and ask their staff to tell them to make--or keep--Darfur a priority when the voting for the bill comes up.
Just one or two brief phone calls. Please, continue, or begin, to be a part of our fragile world's moral conscience. Thanks so much.
