Darfur: Ways to Help the Genocide
Humanitarian Efforts in Sudan for Everyday People
If you want to lend a hand with the conflict in Darfur, these organizations may be a place to start.
In 2003 Darfur, a region in Sudan, became the nucleus for a violent genocide. Various grievances such as drought, oppression and neglect caused rebel groups to rise against the country’s government. The Sudanese leadership’s reaction to the rebellion gave rise to a group eventually known as the Janjaweed. With the government of Sudan’s aid, the Janjaweed have ravaged villages, depleted their resources and caused the deaths of at least 400,000 people.
The genocide in Darfur, continues to be a humanitarian crisis in our world today. Countless of world leaders, humanitarians, celebrities and average Joes have stood up for those who can’t in this African region. Those new to the cause may find the many organizations a bit overwhelming. Here are just a few of the worldwide groups taking action on Darfur.
According to its web site, “The key to [the Save Darfur Coalition’s] success is the millions of everyday citizens who have joined [the] movement.” Over 180 advocacy, humanitarian and faith-based groups comprise the coalition.
Founded in 2004, Save Darfur issues campaigns such as the Weekly Action Network, Dollars for Darfur and Voices From Darfur. In 2006, the American-based organization went global with “Global Day for Darfur,” a 41-city worldwide event demanding peace in Darfur.
Those interested in getting involved with Save Darfur have chances to donate financially, join or start a local group and/or join a petition to send to U.S. President George W. Bush and U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon.
United States-based Africa Action was created in 1953 and according to its Web site, “seeks to re-shape U.S. policy toward African countries.”
The Darfur situation is not the only effort the organization is tackling, but it is nevertheless fully engaged. For supporters, they provide their own “Top Ten Ways to Take Action to Stop Genocide in Darfur” which includes making a banner of handprints, organizing a vigil and emailing the U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan, Andrew Natsios.
Africa Action’s additional campaigns include the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa and a campaign to get rid of Africa’s debt.
Amnesty International seeks to bring justice to humanitarian crises worldwide. With the organization’s many campaigns, helping in the Darfur situation isn’t as direct as the previous two groups. But the group still keeps track of this crisis and calls to action.
According to Amnesty’s Web site, “[They] help stop human rights abuses by mobilizing [their] member and supporters to put pressure on governments, armed groups, companies and intergovernmental bodies.”
Some ways to get involved with Amnesty include, joining the group, receiving e-newsletters, subscribing to changes in their Web site and donating financially.
