Darfur Mondays

Wise Words

2007-05-21T10:56:00.000-04:00

As part of the conference I attended last week, I was able to hear John Prendergast deliver the luncheon keynote. John is a Senior Advisor to the International Crisis Group and has been to the heart of war zones and atrocities all around the world to tell the stories that need telling.

John was informative and inspiring. Like Robert Egger, he believes that nonprofits need to be on the forefront of organizing efforts if they are truly to make a dent in the world's problems. John highlighted the easy things everyone can to do help end the genocide in Darfur.

John has a new book coming out with Don Cheadle, which also highlights these actions and why they are badly needed immediately. John comes across as informed and passionate about this cause and you get he feeling that he'd go out of his way to get the chance to tell anyone at all about the horrors happening in Sudan and why they must end. That's what I call inspiration.

One of his best quotes was this, when talking about why ordinary individuals have to pressure their elected leaders to do something about the genocide:

Unless there is a consequence for inaction, there will be no action.

While I could wax philosophically about how this quote details the unfortunate landscape of American politics, the truth it conveys is much more important.

For a politician to do anything, there must be grave repercussions for staying the current course. Inertia is biggest to overcome in Washington, and it takes a great force to get the ball rolling and motivate a leader to author legislation, appoint a committee, or convene a meeting.

But the silver lining is that these folks do listen to the people. A flood of letters, a stream of phone calls, and barrage of emails will wake someone up. Jerry Falwell knew this and it forever changed the makeup of American political-religious activity. The NRA knew this and were in Senate offices minutes after the Virginia Tech tragedy.

So now it's our turn to know it as well. I'll leave you with John’s suggestions on what any and all of us can and must do. Act now:

Write a letter to your representative or Senators.
Schedule a meeting with them when they’re in town.
Call the White House.
Send an email to any of these elected officials.
Get others to do the same.

Exposed

2007-05-07T20:30:00.000-04:00

The first step is stopping a genocide is to find the truth. Then, you tell that truth to as many people as possible.

It was reported today that Amnesty International has uncovered a terrible violation of the arms embargo imposed on Sudan. Russia and China are accused of supplying the government in Khartoum with weapons. These arms are then being taken to Darfur, where one can only assume they will soon be used to kill innocent people.

I still hold out hope that a lot of diplomacy and negotiations can be used to end this conflict. But, when the Sudanese government, aided by other nations, deliberately violates sanctions, there needs to be a louder and stronger voice.

Of course then it gets complicated as to what this 'voice' is and who is speaking. But, it just might be time - no, it's way past time - to clearly outline what is expected from Khartoum and what will happen if these expectations are not met.

China's Big Move

2007-04-09T10:35:00.000-04:00

Could today's news about China be the major step forward that a lot of us have been waiting for? China told Sudan's President, Omar al-Bashir that his country needs to improve its security.

While this is hardly the muscle that strong China really needs to flex, it's a start. China, which will be hosting the Olympics in about a year, is one of the biggest trading partners with Sudan. Many have thought that China is the key piece in the puzzle that needs to be in place to stop this genocide.

This is a big step for China, which normally likes to remain silent on a lot of things. As they amass more and more capital, they can afford to do so.

Hopefully, China will continue to apply pressure enough for everyone to go back to the negotiating table and figure this thing out. Unfortunately, it won't happen without China's influence.

Tomorrow Night

2007-03-26T11:12:00.001-04:00

If you're in Nashville, make plans to com hear Dr. Gloria White-Hammond speak about the latest happenings in Darfur.

No matter your level on interest in or knowledge about the conflict, the lecture is sure to be a valuable experience.

Get the details here.

I Watched a Movie: Lost Boys of Sudan

2007-03-05T10:31:00.001-05:00

Lynnette and I watched Lost Boys of Sudan this past weekend. Just like God Grew Tired of Us, this film follows the fascinating journey of Sudan's Lost Boys as they are plucked from their refugee camp life and transported to the US. While Lost Boys are not native of Darfur necessarily, their story is important and can give insight into the horrendous downward spiral that is modern day Sudan.

As one might imagine, going from eating meager rations one day to having more food that you know what to do with the next can be quite a transforming experience. As can seeing your landscape littered with tall buildings whereas you previously only saw huts barely taller than you.

Each film chronicles a set of boys who tell of their fight for the lives when their homelands in Southern Sudan were raided by government militias. These young men are called the Lost Boys because many do not know where their parents are. If they are lucky, they might be part of the rare few who reconnect somehow with their mother, who was taken to another African country.

The Lost Boys who survived the thousand mile trek for survival were resettled eventually in refugees camps in Kenya. Then, little by little, some are given asylum in America through groups like Catholic Charities and the YMCA.

But adjusting to life here is not easy. Many rely heavily on aid from churches and other groups while the improve their English, get a job, and try to finish their education. Some Lost Boys become isolated, having been separated from the close ties they developed in the refugee camp. Others can't quite grasp the language enough to get driver's licenses or decent-paying jobs or begin a higher education.

But some do pave a way here, and after graduating or saving enough money, want to return to Sudan to help better the lives of many who are still there.

The story of any Lost Boy is fascinating and worthy of listening to. Chances are, some Lost Boys may have been resettled near you. For more information, check out the Lost Boys Foundation.

Stick It To the President

2007-02-19T16:37:00.001-05:00

It's President's Day, today. I've already mentioned the idea of quickly contacting our current administration for any reason, but I want to use this space to highlight Darfur.

Take less than 30 seconds by clicking here to urge Bush to do the following:

Strengthen the understaffed and overwhelmed African Union peackeeping force already in Darfur.
Push for the deployment of a strong UN peacekeeping force.
Increase humanitarian aid and ensure access for aid delivery.
Establish a no-fly zone.

You can do it. I know you can.

A Small Step For Justice

2007-01-29T16:19:00.000-05:00

Today, the President of Sudan, Omar al-Bashir, was denied the chairmanship of the African Union. This position rotates among leaders of African member nations. He was supposed to have the chair last year, but his turn was postponed a year because of the worsening situation in Darfur.

Justly, he was denied leadership again this year. Mr. Bashir is one of the main reasons Darfur remains as it is. His continued opposition to a joint UN-AU peacekeeping force leads directly to the deaths of innocent civilians.

I don't know if this rejection will immediately lead to Bashir to allow the troops to enter Darfur, but I hope something will.

A Home Run of an Idea

2007-01-22T14:41:00.000-05:00

In an article for Ethics Daily, Charles Deweese makes the case that sports is one of the world's largest religions. There is no doubt that sports pervades much of our culture. Stadiums and arenas are the cathedrals in which we pay homage and reverence to our larger-than-life athletes who can lead comebacks and victory marches. Sports makes many people cry, shout and dance. Talk of sports happens everywhere with loyal adherents stating their case for why their team or player is better (and therefore more deserving of praise and worship).

While Deweese rightly points out many negative effects of this phenomenon, a minor league baseball team announced today that they will donate half of all ticket proceeds from their game on July 29 to relief agencies in Darfur.

Many religions pride themselves on their charitable endeavors, and it appears that one of the most popular faiths, sports, could be on the same track. The Bridgeport Bluefish are not affiliated with a major league team and are part of the independent Atlantic League. This makes their endeavor even more admirable as they have no 'safety net' in terms of finances from a parent ball club.

Let's do the math. Let's say the Bluefish sell 3,000 tickets that day for $6 each. Half of that total comes to $9,000. If every team in the Atlantic League followed their lead, you're up to $72,000.

Now, if every minor league team copied this idea, we start to see some real dollars. There are currently 246 minor league teams, ranging widely in stadium size and ticket price. But, just to stay on the conservative side of things, we'll keep the same amount we think the Bluefish can bring in: 246 teams at $9,000 each = $2,214,000.

Now, let's step it up for the big boys. Major league teams have bigger stadiums and more expensive tickets. While a philanthropic cause like this held on a Saturday in the fall could have exponential effects for our experiment, we'll just stick with the averages. The average game last year sold 31,423 tickets at an average price of $22.21. Half of that price multiplied by all those bodies brings in a one day total of $10,463,859 for 30 teams.

The moral of the story: if every professional baseball team had a philanthropic day at the park to benefit Darfur, over $12.6 million could be raised.

If the promotion happened once a month, we're talking major money that can go towards changing the world.

Team owners are always looking for ways to pack the parks, so tell your local GM to step up to the plate hold a similar day in your town.

Cease-Fire in Darfur

2007-01-15T11:53:00.000-05:00

Last week, I wrote about presidential hopeful Bill Richardson making a trip to Sudan to try to broker some sort of peace deal.

Well, it looks like it happened. Flying under the radar last Tuesday was this statement that the rebels and the Sudanese government were ready to begin (again) a discussion of peace. Both sides agreed to a 60-day cease fire to begin negotiating an agreement.

While this is a lot of talk, it is a sign of hope that this genocide will indeed come to an end soon. Like the peace deal of last May, this agreement is very tender and fragile and the smallest infraction by either party will undo some hard work.

Stay updated with Google alerts regarding Darfur and sign up to be on the Save Darfur Coalition's email list. Stay educated.

The Last Year of the Genocide

2007-01-08T22:52:00.000-05:00

My hopes are high that 2007 will be the year that the genocide in Darfur came to an end.

While reality suggests this is a very long shot, I was happy to see the headline this morning that there is new energy from the US in terms of helping bring peace to Darfur.

This envoy is led by Bill Richardson. Mr. Richardson does have presidential ambitions, and it is only natural to questions anyone's actions when they have motives like this waiting in the wings. However, brokering peace in Darfur, while admirable, is not something most Americans are begging for, like lower gas prices or interest rates. Therefore, I wish the governor all the best. He has the experience and the ideas to perhaps make this think work.

So, as we're all making resolutions and hoping for the best year ever, let's hope that this is the year Darfur takes a giant step towards healing.

Merry Christmas?

2006-12-25T21:16:00.000-05:00

30 Seconds

2006-12-18T16:20:00.000-05:00

Maps

2006-12-11T13:17:00.000-05:00

I've found two great resources this week as the genocide in Darfur rages on.

The first is done by the BBC and is an interactive map showing the various conflict zones in Darfur. Click on the map to see what the latest is in a given area.

The second is at Daily Kos and uses Google Maps technology to get an overview of the destruction that is happening on the ground.

Both resources are valuable for those of us who will never see such calamity on the maps we usually look at. Even now, as I'm looking at maps of Miami in preparation for my and Lynnette's anniversary trip, I can't help but think about how lucky I am. I'm trying to figure out how to get from the hotel to the cruise port and not how to get water so my family can have something to drink while I try to avoid militias and fires.

Why Can't Anyone Fix Darfur Already?

2006-12-04T21:42:00.000-05:00

If you've got some time, click here to check out my rather lengthy analysis of the situation in Darfur.

I penned this paper for my law class this semester. In it, I propose a new course of action than abandons the current goal of mobilizing American voices.

I simply ask the question: Who can directly stop the genocide in Darfur, and how to we appeal to them?

Influence

2006-11-27T10:44:00.000-05:00

I thoroughly enjoy reading business magazines. Blogs, news sites and talking heads may be your thing, but if you want to keep up with why the things happen that give those people something to talk and write about, then pick up Fortune magazine.

In the current issue, they feature the 30 most influential business people of 2006. Making the list are MySpace founders, Chris DeWolfe and Tom Anderson. Maybe you're tired of hearing about these guys and their overexposure, but here's what I like: in their photo, Tom is brandishing a shirt that raises awareness about Darfur.

The site may play host to stalkers and time-wasters, and it may not work like it should a lot of the time, but these guys have made headlines, and Tom (everyone's first friend) used his snapshot in a top business magazine to spread the word.

Maybe he just wanted to look cool. Maybe he wants to be George Clooney. But, MySpace has been plugging Darfur with a recent concert series, and is using its wild ride to help others.

I'm down with that. And I now want one of those shirts.

The Messenger

2006-11-20T21:14:00.000-05:00

Now that we've defined our message of overlap and commonality, we must find someone who will bring the message to the Janjaweed soldiers. Who is best equipped to deliver this message? Who can accurately bring the good news that there is hope in a shared suffering?

In Gerry Mackie's description of Tostan, the message is initially delivered by Western 'outsiders.' However, allies are quickly formed so that the message is not seen as being exclusively delivered by foreigners 'who think they know better.' Understandably, any such attitude would lead to the messengers being branded as irrelevant and the message itself would fall on deaf ears.

However, due to the overlap in the message, the Darfurians should be the ones to bring the message to the Janjaweed. Their shared suffering allows them to deliver the message with integrity. They have authority due to their victimization and their privilege as 'insiders,' even though their position is viewed as inferior by the Janjaweed.

The plan? Upon impending attack, a village should formally surrender, announcing that they want to meet the demands of the soldiers as best they can. They must appeal on the grounds that they know why they soldiers attack, and that there are common threads upon which a bridge can be built to lay foundations for a healthy future together.

While such an idea seems ludicrously naïve, there is no doubt that in some cases there will be more killings, and the vulnerability of the Darfurians will be taken advantage of. Thus, it is recommended that the first attempt at this be done with a small group (five or less) of attacking Janjaweed (as opposed to a band of twenty or more).

Once an envoy from the village has appealed to the soldiers, a bond will be formed on their shared commonality and a peaceful future can begin. This approach will be combined with a public awareness and education campaign aimed at the Janjaweed soldiers. This campaign will be detailed next week.

Now, who will bring the message to the Darfurians so that they know how to speak with the Janjaweed?

Again, following Tostan’s method, an educational campaign must be done initially so that people can find hope in the message and its delivery. The campaign in Darfur will mirror that in Senegal that ended female genital cutting. Once Darfurians have been trained, they will be able to not only communicate effectively with the Janjaweed; they will be prepared to ultimately lead their own autonomous communities and governments.

The Overlap

2006-11-13T16:54:00.000-05:00

The Janjaweed militia kill for several reasons, but ultimately, they work for the same reasons most of us work: survival. Without work, most of us have no money, which we use to by the necessities of life, such as shelter, food, clothing and other basic needs. Part of Janjaweed payment, however, is the loot they get from raiding a village. When they enter a certain part of Darfur and raze the community, the animals, food, and other items they glean from the abandoned tents become theirs to barter with or sell at their leisure.

Of course, part of the reason they kill and rape (as opposed to just stealing) has to do with a lack of education regarding their fellow countrypersons. Believing propaganda from the government, these marauders feel that Darfurians are less than human at worst, and simply inferior at best. Thus, it is easy to kill someone when you feel as if they do not deserve to live. Their misunderstanding of their shared commonality contributes to the continuation of the genocide. Therefore, by addressing the shared humanity between the perpetrators and the victims, we can hope to build a bridge toward the cessation of the killing.

By categorizing the traits of their specific human condition, both the Janjaweed and the citizens of Dafur all have a need for the following:

Survival
Land
Governance
Race

When we examine these for each, we get what seems like two very different pictures:
Survival:

The Darfurians stay in camps, flee the militia attacks, and live in refugee camps for this reason
The Janjaweed kill, attack and destroy for this reason, as it is how they earn income and what they believe

Land:

The Darfurians live in Western and Southern Sudan
The Janjaweed live in Eastern and Northern Sudan

Governance:

The Darfurians want a fair representation and an equal say in those who govern them
The Janjaweed obey the commands of a dictator/president

Race:

The Darfurians are dark skinned Africans
The Janjaweed are light skinned Africans

There are shared commonalities in each of these. The shared qualities of each categories are greatest with the need for survival, and then the overlap decreases as we work our way down to race. But, where there is overlap, there is a message.

Similarly, below the surface are categories which also provide the overlap needed to send a message upon which community building can begin:
Race:

The Darfurians are dark skinned Africans
The Janjaweed are light skinned Africans

Religion:

The Darfurians are African Muslims and Christians
The Janjaweed are Arab Muslims

Humanity:

The Darfurians are people in the midst of the human condition
The Janjaweed are people in the midst of the human condition

Suffering:

The Darfurians experience victimization at the hands of the Janjaweed
The Janjaweed experience victimization at the hands of Khartoum

As you can see, below the surface, the commonalities are much easier to find. Beginning with an appeal to the shared humanity and suffering each group has will lead towards an acknowledgement of that which is in common above the surface, such as the origin of their races, their shared hope for Sudan and Africa, their need for representative government, and their universal quest for survival.

Below the surface, commonality is greatest at the bottom, in terms of suffering and decreases as we move towards race again. Imagine two hourglasses for each group, where 'survival' is at the top and 'suffering' at the bottom. In the middle, where the sand exits the top, there is a line, which will serve as 'the surface.' When we push each group's hourglass towards one another, the top and bottom overlap simultaneously and so fourth until both hourglasses are juxtaposed, one on top of the other. The more they are pushed closer, the more the groups share, and the deeper the message can get.

Therefore, the initial message has to stress the shared need for survival based on the human condition of suffering. When the Janjaweed recognize this basic right of the Darfurians, and the fact that this need is shared, new dreams can emerge wherein the two work together to ensure the survival of the other. In my wildest dreams, the Janjaweed protect a village in exchange for food and clothing. Living together, the group bridge the other gaps (even race) until the community thrives on trust built from shared needs.

There's your message. Now we have to figure out how to get it there.

What’s the Message?

2006-11-06T16:50:00.000-05:00

With a new target, we need to make sure we have the right message. If we've got the right people, but are telling the wrong thing, then we're as ineffective as having the right words and the wrong ears.

Taking a page out of Gerry Mackie's playbook will help us design our appeal to the Janjaweed. In his article from 2000 titled "Female Genital Cutting: The Beginning of the End," Mackie details an approach used by Tostan to eradicate the practice of female cutting in Senegal in the 1990's. The approach also helped to end foot binding in much of China.

In both cultures, the abusive practice had been linked to deeply held cultural beliefs and a economic viability. With two seemingly insurmountable obstacles, how were Westerners able to convince locals to end a practice that was hundreds of years old?

A three-pronged approach of education, discussion and commitment helped end the abuse and show an alternative way for those cutting and those victimized.

Because cutting is directly linked to marriageability in many cultures, a village would have to make a written commitment to not cut their daughters and to encourage their sons to marry uncut women. Once this happened for as little a generation, the tide had turned and the method spread to other villages.

Similarly, for Darfur, a three-pronged approach is needed to convince soldiers that what they are doing is wrong. Once education of the Janjaweed happens (largely by appeal to commonality, which is next week's entry), then a small group can join together to put down their guns and pick up the proverbial olive branch of peace.

The commitment that needs to be made is one of peace out of the necessity for survival and the education campaign can be languaged and launched similar to the one used in Senegal. Next week, I'll discuss the appeal (method) that is to be used with the soldiers in order to elicit buy-in. This appeal will be based on a shared humanity that is just below the surface of all human conflict.

On Monday, December 4, this entry will be a rather lengthy paper, which is the culmination of one of my classes for the semester. The previous three Darfur entries have laid the basic groundwork, which will be detailed in my paper. At the end, I hope to present a viable and workable solution to ending the genocide in Darfur.

The New Approach: The New Target

2006-10-30T12:51:00.000-05:00

Advocacy is the communication of a particular message to an intended target in an attempt to change the behavior of that target. I’ll begin the new approach I introduced last week with a discussion of a new target.

With Darfur advocacy up until now, the message has looked as follows:
The target has been the general public with the message of the reality of the Darfur crisis in the hopes that more advocates will be created who will tell their government of the reality of the Darfur crisis in the hopes these governments will then use their unique powers to pressure Khartoum to stop ordering Janjaweed militias to kill Darfurians.

As you can see, the message has been the same (I will discuss the concept of message here next week). Because of the lack of coverage of the genocide, advocacy groups (like Save Darfur) and individuals (like Nicholas Kristof) have proclaimed a message of awareness. Making people aware about the atrocity will compel them to act, and then a change will occur.

However, the target of this message has been on two levels. The levels have determined the change in behavior sought, and thus have influenced the message itself. The message to the general public has been one of public awareness. Facts and stories of the genocide have been aimed at regular (non-governmental) people in hopes that these people will then lobby their government to do what it is perceived only governments can do: sanction, declare war, form alliances, embargo, etc.

So, the message is languaged in a very specific way, hoping to get these people to then deliver another message to another target (governmental bodies), chief among them the US Senate, the US President, and the UN.

Thus, the advocacy strategy has been one of mobilizing more advocates. The justification has been that if enough people care, then they will leverage whatever political and economic capital they have to change the behavior of the government, so that these governments will put pressure on the government in Khartoum, who many hold responsible for the perpetration of the genocide.

The result of this strategy has been mixed. Yes, more people are now aware of Darfur, and, yes, more letters and messages have been delivered to Washington and New York. But, the genocide continues because the target is one that has a much greater perceived power to act than they actually have in their capacity.

Asking ourselves the following question will give us the proper target: Who could literally end the genocide?

Many think that the government in Khartoum could make a sweeping pronouncement and all killing, raping and pillaging would stop. But, for such a hateful force to halt behavior, action on the part of large governmental bodies must be massive, which is currently impossible given alliances and loyalties. More is needed, in other words, than sanctions and peacekeepers.

Quite literally, the genocide would stop if individual soldiers stopped killing people. The genocide would stop when soldiers put down their guns and use another means for income and food other than raiding villages. The genocide would stop if individual soldiers no longer choose to do what they do.

There’s our target. Now, what’s the message? I’ll be back next week with my thoughts on what this message needs to be and how it needs to be delivered to have a maximum impact.

A New Approach

2006-10-23T14:41:00.000-04:00

I firmly believe that in most social causes, it is as equally important to raise awareness as it is to raise money. I also firmly believe that if we are to truly alleviate a social problem, we must attack the root causes. In combining the two (awareness and root causes), we can eliminate many problems. For example, hunger could be combated if we informed those who aren’t hungry about the situation and then all worked together to find solutions to the problems that cause hunger in the first place.

I’ve been thinking about this approach, especially as it relates to Darfur. I desperately want to see the genocide ended in Western Sudan, and I want to relate to the average American ways in which he or she can help to bring that about. This is why I write every Monday about this very topic. I seek to raise awareness and show folks the little things they can do stateside to end the killing.

Lots of groups have sprung up regarding this issue. There have been public protests and elected officials have spoken about the situation. The UN has written a resolution. Some (albeit very little) press has drawn some (albeit very little) attention to the conflict. But, people continue to be raped, murdered and abandoned.

Solutions have been myriad. When thinking of a solution that ends the genocide, what is being recommended is a certain message to a certain audience. In terms of awareness, this message has been to the world’s citizens, the UN, or the White House. This audience is then encouraged to send a message to the Sudanese government in terms of military or economic pressure. Thus, the action step looks like this:

A campaign from social organization sends a message to American public to send a message to the White House saying “We, the American people, want people to stop being killed in Darfur” so that the White House will then tell Khartoum to stop killing or else face serious consequences.

The part about the White House or the UN sending a message gets sticky because white soldiers killing black people doesn’t look good, and China isn’t quite ready to sever oil-related economic ties with a supplier. So, the genocide continues.

Genocides always continue on too long, no matter when they’re stopped. Rwanda went on for too long, as did Hitler's terror in Eurpoe. Darfur is the next place in this unfortunate sequence of mass murder.

Unless a new approach is taken. Welcome to my world.

For the next six weeks, I will outline a plan that I think just may work. It may work simply because the other attempts at messages and targets haven’t. We’ve been advocating for the wrong message to the wrong audience.

I will be taking a page out of strategies that have worked to end foot binding in China and female genital cutting in parts of Africa. In both cases, despite laws and Western pressure, deeply embedded violent cultural practices were halted due to sending a message to those perpetrating the violence.

I believe this same process could work in Darfur, if we send the right message to those committing the atrocities: the Janjaweed soldiers.

Tune in next week when we explore the basic framework of how this will work. In the subsequent weeks, we’ll get into how the message will be delivered. Get ready to think big.

Is There Hope for the UN?

2006-10-16T09:28:00.000-04:00

I think the UN is a great idea. I really do. The thought of several nations coming together to ensure peace for the entire world is a beautiful notion.

Of course, lots of people have their complaints. And now I do, too.

My complaints aren't of the "I hate the UN because it didn't want to invade Iraq with us" variety. They're not of the "The UN is the Anti-Christ and Jesus should come back any minute" type, either. They're of the "I hate it when real change and decisions get bogged down by the committee process" variety.

This article from the BBC explains how the UN missed warning signs in 2001 about the growing crisis in Darfur. Failing to learn from the Rwandan crisis in 1994, a UN panel ignored what was unfolding in Western Sudan. Because of inaction, people died.

And they continue to die. As I write every Monday, the genocide is complex and a solution must be equally so. I think that the recently approved UN peacekeeping force is a giant step forward. Of course, Khartoum's refusal to accept this force is equally a step backwards.

And, while I (and probably you) don't have a vote on the floor of the UN (or in any committees), we can influence change at that level. Click here to send a message to Kofi Annan (it will take you about 27 seconds to complete).

We've all been on a team or served on a committee and felt the negative effects of the time it takes to generate the momentum needed to act. Multiple voices and perspectives are beautiful and valuable, but they can be hell on attempts to act quickly.

Quick and prudent action are badly needed to help the dying souls in Darfur. Do what you can.

Out of the Mouths of College Students

2006-10-09T09:58:00.000-04:00

With the help of my handy Google alerts, I came across two very interesting articles on Darfur.

The first is written by a college sophomore who questions the ability of major rallies to truly do any direct good for those victimized by the genocide in Darfur. She writes:

When reading about the 20,000 to 30,000 attendants at Central Park in New York City specifically, I wondered about a different alternative that didn't seem to cross the mind of a single person. What would have happened if every one of the 25,000 or so people in attendance had decided to work a job for $10 an hour instead of uselessly standing at the rally? For the sake of argument, I will assume the average total time commitment of every Darfur protest attendant was five hours. This assumption would mean that every participant could have grossed a total of $50, and thus the total sum amassed would have been $1.25 million. What would have happened if UNICEF, the Red Cross or any other humanitarian organization had been given an extra $1.25 million to aid the people of Sudan? Certainly it would have been more than the nothing that came out of a giant crowd of loiterers.

While a bit unrealistic, I like the way she thinks.

Also, MySpace announced that it would be doing a series of concerts and shows to raise awareness and money for Darfur relief. I enjoy seeing large and rich companies using their fame and fortune to help others:

The site's Rock for Darfur event is scheduled for Oct. 21, and will bring together more than 20 benefit concerts together to raise money for the humanitarian aid organization Oxfam's ongoing efforts to provide aid to the region in Sudan. Bands already on board for the event include TV on the Radio, Secret Machines and Insane Clown Posse. An undisclosed portion of each ticket's price will go toward Oxfam's coffers.

The youth movement is alive and well. Make a difference and invest in the future: feed a college student.

A Glimmer of Hope

2006-10-02T08:32:00.000-04:00

I try to remain a realist in all of life's situations, but usually, the optimist in me wins out. A few news stories today have me hopeful, but I remain well aware of the reality in Darfur.

The BBC News has begun a piece allowing victims of the genocide to tell their stories. This is very important, and helps to raise awareness about the genocide, which is an important first step towards stopping it. These true-life accounts put a face on the genocide that often seems so far away. Here's a quote from Fatima Abdelshafi, a 28-year-old farm laborer:

I cannot forget the killing of 21 people from my village. They were buried in one well which was covered with earth and then leveled.

Our herds were stolen from us and we were forced to leave our homes. We had no choice but to head for the surrounding mountains without shelter, food or water.

Why did they do that to us?

The BBC is also reporting that the Arab League and the European Commission are having talks in the region about finding a workable solution to the genocide. Since the May peace deal (which is as good as toilet paper right about now), things have actually gotten worse in Darfur. Last month, the Sudanese government in Khartoum blocked a UN resolution which would have put a UN peacekeeping force on the ground, replacing the bleak African Union forces.

These talks are potentially groundbreaking because Sudan is part of the Arab League (although they are saying that their military can keep the peace). Likewise, the European Commission is pledging financial support to the AU forces, something they currently lack. Regardless of what happens, more attention is being paid to the issue, and more voices are part of the conversation. Thus, this route has the biggest chance for a positive outcome than any other attempt in the past year and a half.

And, an editorial in today's Washington Post inspired me. Susan Rice, Anthony Lake and Donald Payne get in right in this piece. The trio calls out what needs calling out, including:

The hypocrisy of the Sudanese government
The lack of international attention
The double standards on the part of the American government
The feasibility of a real solution

The three authors don't just complain - they provide solutions. The entire editorial is worth your time.

As always, stay tuned. Go out of our way to find news about the genocide. Get informed, get involved, and change the world.

Small Steps for Darfur

2006-09-25T07:08:00.000-04:00

Take 5 minutes and educate yourself today about Darfur. Things continue to be critical, and it's important that each person takes the initiative to know about what's happening in Darfur (since American media obviously won't do this for you).

I recommend the following sites that I stumbled upon this morning:

There are a million things that need to be done, and all of them begin with your awareness.

Darfur Ideas

2006-09-18T10:35:00.000-04:00

Yesterday’s showing of Darfur Diaries was successful on several levels. Hundreds of folks gave up their Sunday afternoons to educate themselves on the worst humanitarian crisis in the world today.

After the film (which is a collection of 2004 interviews with refugees and internally displaced people), the theater was completely silent. I felt motivated to act like never before, but I also felt completely paralyzed by my own ignorance of how to act.

After the film, Dan Schafer, a professor at Belmont and local activist in Nashville, detailed the legislative approaches that have been taken. Dan candidly expressed his hesitancy that any US legislation would wholly end the conflict. Calls can be made, and resolutions can be passed, but the complicated intricacies of the situation (which were also explained by Nashville attorney Clint Alexander) demand that a workable solution is international in nature.

But, I still firmly believe that ordinary individuals can help the plight of the victims as they cope daily with death and displacement. I also believe that if enough of us are loud enough, the bulwarks of ignorance that keep this genocide in the margins can be shaken and the canopy of complacency can come crashing down.

In that vein, I want to highlight what Sharon Cobb, a Nashville filmmaker, asked on her blog:

I've never made a very good armchair warrior. I can only write about something for so long before I have to do something when words aren't enough.

The genocide in Darfur is going to take filming. It's going to take showing the American people what is going to happen after Oct. 1 when the AU pulls out. It's going to take showing the janjaweed raping little girls and killing their mothers who have to watch, then stuffing their fathers in water wells which can never be used again.

I need a small crew, one cameraman/woman, an interpreter, a mule (a person who can smuggle tapes out) and a medical assistant. All of them need to have nerves of steel.

We can fly into Chad, and have a driver smuggle us into Darfur. We can have the State Dept set up a meeting, or at least a phone interview with Minnawi.

To media outlets, will you please seriously consider sending me with a crew? I know it might be hard to cut into Anna Nicole Smith time, but it's only two million people who are going to die if we don't do something. The world needs to SEE what is happening, because talking about it hasn't stopped it.

A friend of mine asked me last night if I was afraid of dying by going to Darfur. I told her, "No, I'm afraid of living with myself if I don't."

What we (and Darfurians) need are enough of us ordinary folks who are willing to make a difference. Dream big, and perhaps we can make it so that no more movies about genocides need to be made.

Local Action

2006-09-11T21:12:00.000-04:00

I wanted to highlight this Nashville event, which coincides with a BIG rally in New York on Sunday. Things are about to get really bad in Darfur, and unless people get together to raise awareness, thousands will die. Get involved and act.

Tennesseans Against Genocide, in association with Vanderbilt STAND and Belmont Coalition Against Genocide, is presenting Darfur Diaries, a powerful hour-long documentary.
Sunday, September 17 is Global Day for Darfur, a day of rallies around the country and world, including a major rally in New York City to coincide with the convening of the 61st General Assembly of the United Nations, to urge immediate international action for Darfur.

We will also have Klint Alexander, a lawyer specializing in international law, who will speak briefly on what is preventing international action at this time and why action is justified. There will be an opportunity for questions.

Money will be collected for two humanitarian organizations with food programs in Darfur: Mazon and the World Food Program.

The humanitarian situation in Darfur is worse than ever. According to the American Jewish World Service, since June the number of Darfurians without access to food aid has doubled. Due to lack of funding, the World Food Program warns of further cuts in food aid by October, which could affect three million civilians.

The Latest Bad News

2006-09-04T14:46:00.000-04:00

Last week, a UN force was approved to monitor and keep the peace in Darfur. This force was supposed to relieve the weary African Union forces, which have become inadequate. The UN approval of peacekeeping troops was great news. The AU mandate expired at the end of September, and many wondered if Sudan would reassemble their own army in the western part of the country, causing more harm and death to the thousands of refugees.

But we can't celebrate just yet. The UN resolution stipulated that Khartoum had to approve the force. And, of course, Omar al-Bashir, the president of Sudan, immediately voiced his opposition to what he considers an invading army.

And, the latest reports show that the Sudanese government is rearming itself, waiting for the AU to leave, and betting that the UN will stay out.

Once again, we've got a sticky situation.

In less than six months, we've had two documents (May's peace deal and last week's UN resolution) that could ring hollow. Even worse, a lot of the 'official' diplomatic procedures have nearly run their course.

A few things need to happen:

NATO needs to step up and use its clout to send a non-Western led force into Sudan and keep the peace.
al-Bashir and crew need to stop systematically killing people.
Washington needs to take a stand, be vocal as hell, and show that where injustice exists, the US will be there to combat it.

Stay tuned.

Googling for Darfur

2006-08-28T09:11:00.000-04:00

Folks often ask how I get all of my Darfur info, given that most American news outlets give it little to no airtime or column space.

I Google.

Signing up for Google News alerts is an idea I highly recommend. By entering a keyword, you can have emails sent to you whenever that word comes over the wire. I get about 10 or so Darfur emails a day because I want the news as it breaks. I've also signed up to get Sudan and Africa alerts once a day.

Stay smart.

Cholera Ruins Everything

2006-08-14T16:40:00.000-04:00

From Reuters:

The number of cases of acute watery diarrhea has increased noticeably in the past four weeks, with outbreaks reported in camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the western Sudanese region of Darfur, as well as urban areas, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said.

Well, crap (no pun intended). It looks like when lots of people are forced from their homes while rebel militias rape and pillage, putting them all in one place with little access to clean water and healthy food leads to disease. Who knew?

Anyone who knows anything about science.

As I say nearly every Monday, the political finesse needed to get a lasting peace deal done is tricky. But, military power can secure borders in order for aid groups to distribute food and alleviate deteriorating medical conditions.

What is sad is that when people die from disease, their deaths will not usually figure into official body counts from the genocide. Never mind that these deaths ARE A RESULT OF THE GENOCIDE. If not for the government-backed Janjaweed, these folks would be living in their homes and not crammed with 50 others in a space smaller than my office.

Get a clue, America. Terrorism is happening right in front of our face and a few F-16s roaring overhead would scare the crap out of Khartoum enough so that they allows border access from Chad to prevent preventable diseases from breaking out in camps.

Thus, cholera is now also a tool of the Sudanese government, but is easily ignored because it's not as graphic as pitchforking newborns is.

Wake up and smell the dysentery, world.

Coming to a City Near You: A Refugee Camp

2006-08-07T13:28:00.000-04:00

If you want to be a good global citizen, then mark your calendar (from Doctors Without Borders):

Guided by MSF aid workers, visitors to this outdoor educational exhibit are asked to imagine that they are among the millions of people fleeing violence and persecution in, for example, Afghanistan, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, North Korea, or Sudan.

An estimated 33 million people around the world have been forced to flee their homes and live in temporary shelter, with nearly two-thirds of them displaced within their own countries. The exhibit is made up of materials used by MSF in its emergency medical work around the world, including emergency refugee housing, a food distribution tent, water pump, health clinic, vaccination tent, therapeutic feeding center, and a cholera treatment center. It addresses questions such as: Will I be safe? What will I eat? How do I find water? Can I get medical care? And where will I live?

The exhibit first appeared in the US in 2000, in New York, New Jersey, and Los Angeles, attracting almost 20,000 visitors.

Launched in France in 1995, A REFUGEE CAMP IN THE HEART OF THE CITY has since appeared in Austria, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Holland, Japan, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates, and is scheduled to appear in Italy, and Hong Kong.

This exhibit will be in Nashville at Centennial Park on October 4-8, 2006.

Conditions will emulate what millions are currently facing in Darfur and other easily-ignored locales. But, at the end of your day, you'll return to your comforts. Many others cannot.

And, these are the type of events that will be listed on CoolPeopleCare. Get ready for the revolution. Sign up to receive an email when we go live real soon, and if you work for a nonprofit, we're happy to let the world know about you and your events.

Also posted on: Darfur Be Damned, SamDavidson.net

God Bless the New York Inquirer

2006-07-31T10:11:00.000-04:00

The New York Inquirer is doing a special series about the genocide in Darfur. They begin the coverage with a reality check. It's been over two years since Colin Powell and the House of Representatives called this thing a genocide, but US and international efforts have been pathetic (as has been mainstream media coverage).

Go read today's coverage and then check back all week. This is very important.

Also posted on: Darfur Be Damned, SamDavidson.net

Big Headline

2006-07-24T16:14:00.000-04:00

This is a huge headline that broke before lunch: President Bush is set to meet with Darfur rebel leader Minni Minnawi tomorrow.

While this may not seem earth-shattering, I do have to give the president credit for seeming to care about this international crisis. Stay tuned here to see what happens.

Adding to the Complexities

2006-07-17T10:36:00.000-04:00

An article in today's Herald quotes former President Clinton:

"I would like to see a larger force go there with as many Africans as possible – and then other Muslim forces, perhaps from Turkey, or Pakistan or Bangladesh. I think that the government of Khartoum should be pressured to accept such a force. I think the AU should be supported."

This echoes sentiments shared by Brian Steidle when he spoke in Nashville in March. As much as America is capable of in terms of military power, a better move politically (and for the victims of the genocide) is if non-Western troops (preferably a NATO force) were the ones to keep the peace (and combat the militias).

The Darfur situation is already overly complex (I feel like I say this nearly every Monday). If you want a great Darfur: 101 page, check out either this article from the BBC, or this link from SaveDarfur.org. Anyway, trying to find the right troops, religiously, ethnically and politically makes a dire situation become prolonged. And in a genocide, every day counts.

Troops are needed badly, more so than my wife's hydrangeas need water. The AU force is tired and ready to hand this thing over to the UN. But the reality of war suggests that until the perpetrators are held accountable for their atrocities (which may take the form of armed combat), the genocide and its body count will continue to rise.

Pray for the peace of Darfur.

The Bracelet Stays On

2006-07-10T16:24:00.000-04:00

I was tempted nearly two months ago to take off my green bracelet.

I wear one of those rubber bracelets that nearly everyone has. I’d seen them for a while and decided I wanted to wear one for a really important cause, and I decided that once I found one, I would wear it until the point of wearing it was over. After learning more about Darfur and learning that a green bracelet was available to raise awareness, I decided that’s the one I wanted. I’ve worn it everywhere – to weddings, to work, to the beach – and on more than one occasion I’ve been asked what it means, and I’m always happy to share.

After the signing of a peace deal over 60 days ago, it looked like the bracelet would come off and I’d have to pick another cause. One of the rebel factions and the Sudanese government had hammered out a last-minute pressure-packed deal, and a lot of the world thought the genocide would end and we could go about our merry way and fight injustice elsewhere.

And then the BBC carried these words today:

Two months ago, in their haste to get a deal, the international community pushed through a peace agreement involving just one of Darfur's rebel factions - that of Mr. Minnawi.

The size of that mistake is now becoming clear.

Reports today describe violent fighting among rebel groups in northern Darfur. Many are dead. Relief workers can’t access the sight yet to assess the damage.

As I’ve written before, peace deals aren’t easy or quick, and as soon as international attention shifts because something as been signed, things can get worse very rapidly.

Pray for the peace of Darfur. And hope beyond all hope that new excitement and energy can be invested in a new and workable solution. And go get a bracelet.

How Do You Measure Success?

2006-07-03T16:12:00.000-04:00

The milestone was reached last week. In a ceremony on Capitol Hill, 2 very unlikely allies came together to focus on Darfur: Senators Bill Frist and Hillary Clinton became signatures number 999,999 and 1,000,000 in the Million Voices for Darfur Campaign.

Now that the target has been reached, will the US put more pressure on Khartoum? Will the President (who will soon be receiving a copy of each signed card) pool more resources to help end the genocide? Will Washington leverage its relationships with other nations in order to save innocent lives?

Meanwhile, at the African Summit meeting in Gambia, it appears that AU troops will stay in Darfur in order to keep the peace until the end of the year. This is a revised date from their earlier plan to vacate at the end of September. Again, this is a great achievement, as their presence is badly needed in a place that continues to deteriorate.

However, the peace deal that was signed recently continues to disintegrate. Lacking the full backing of everyone in the conflict, it now looks as if everyone needs to go back to both the drawing board and the negotiating table in order to provide the innocent civilians of Darfur with even a sliver of hope.

Success in catastrophes like this are rarely marked on the front end. No matter how many peace deals are signed, we don’t know how workable they are until we can touch the peace on the back end. Hopefully, 1,000,000 concerned citizens will be enough to start action, and hopefully an extension of African troop deployment will result is a safer Darfur. But we’re standing on the scary precipice and won’t know the results until we come out on the other end of this long, dark night.

Backed by Bill Gates

2006-06-26T07:44:00.000-04:00

Today’s BBC Article details a new panel to monitor and track aid donations to Africa. The panel will make sure that promised money gets to needy nations and that the recipients are spending their money correctly. The panel is chaired by Kofi Annan and has other big name members. But stopping me dead in my tracks was the phrase at the beginning of the second paragraph: “Backed by Bill Gates…”

Yesterday, Warren Buffett, another prominent multi-billionaire, announced that he was giving away a large chunk of his fortuned amassed over years of investing. I’m glad to see a super-rich guy understand the need to give away stockpiles of cash to those who need it more than him. Besides, after the first billion, everything else you make is just icing (or so I’ve heard).

The bulk (over $30 billion) of Buffett’s charitable giving will go to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Bill announced recently that he was leaving his full-time post at Microsoft to oversee the foundation full-time sometime in 2008. The foundation already had a sizable endowment, courtesy of the Gates. Now, it becomes even bigger, and can further attack global health problems.

Therefore, with nearly $60 billion in the bank, get ready for more things that are “backed by Bill Gates.”

Because, when this man and his charity back things, stuff is going to get done. $60 billion is definitely change-the-world kind of money. I always dream of winning the big (more than $100 million) Powerball jackpot and giving the bulk of it away to local organizations and friends who need it. Besides, after you win $25 million, the rest is just icing (or so I’ve heard).

But $60 billion moves mountains. It ends malaria, hunger, and maybe one day, even AIDS. $60 billion gets you the attention of just about anyone in the world. Which is why that the guy holding that extra-large checkbook is Bill Gates. Anything he backed in the 90’s was almost always golden in the computer and software world. But now, finding himself watching Web 2.0 change the world, and seeing open-source and Google calling shots in lots of the digital world, Mr. Gates has become a better philanthropist that software engineer. His greatest calling could be to give away money to global health initiatives in poor countries. All of his Microsoft days might have only prepared him for his time as nonprofit executive extraordinaire.

Some will complain that the rich get richer. Maybe so, but the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation has the methods and capital to change the developing world. Bill has said it’s unacceptable for Africa to be losing nearly 1,000 people a day to preventable and treatable diseases like malaria. He challenges the brightest minds the world over to develop easily transportable and usable vaccines.

Bill Gates built the Microsoft empire by making a product everyone needed and by making this product better than anyone else. He will do the same with his and Buffett’s money in the nonprofit world. He will do it better than anyone else, so from now on, whenever you hear of Bill Gates ‘backing’ something, pay attention, because not only is it going to be good, it’s going to be meaningful.

Vote for Me

2006-06-19T17:48:00.000-04:00

It was announced today that Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoellick is resigning his post. With a cushy Goldman Sachs job waiting for him, and having accomplished his goals of getting Condi off to a great start, he leaves his post after just 16 months on the job.

This is a bit saddening to me because Zoellick had been to Sudan and was an outspoken advocate on bringing an end to the genocide in Darfur. He helped being a fair amount of focus to several international issues so that the White House at least knew about what was going on in the rest of the world.

Even though the Washington Post article quotes Zoellick as saying that the Darfur situation has reached a 'certain plateau' with the signing of the peace accord, there is still much work to be done in that area, the rest of Africa, and the rest of the world. The end of the article mentions a few front-runners to be Zoellick's replacement, but I want to officially throw my hat into the ring.

I know that the position is appointed, and not voted, so go ahead and write the President and tell him to consider me. I can get you a resume if you want to attach that to your email.

When Genocides Aren’t Stopped, They Spread

2006-06-12T08:23:00.000-04:00

Like cancer, if untreated, genocides can spread. Take today’s story from the BBC regarding Sudan ‘exporting’ war. Not a pretty picture.

My friend Michael alerted me to a recent New Yorker article detailing President Bush’s “Not on my watch!” comment after reading the Clinton report on inaction in Rwanda in 1994. One paragraph that jumped out at me was:

"Yet it has never been the American way to venture abroad to stop mass slaughter by force. We entered the Second World War nearly three years into the fight, and then not to save Europe’s Jews but in response to a direct attack on our territory and, ultimately, to repel Fascist aggression. We did not save Cambodia from itself, and did nothing while eight hundred thousand Rwandans were killed. And, when Europe was again disfigured by concentration camps and ethnic cleansing, in the Balkans, we waited for years before pacifying Bosnia and, later, Kosovo with aerial bombardments. (Even then, the logic was as much strategic—to bring a defiant dictator to heel and restore order on NATO’s turf—as it was humanitarian.) We have not sent forces into Congo, although it has been riddled with massacres in the past decade, nor did we send troops to southern Sudan during the civil war there that claimed more than a million lives in the past two decades."

A policy of inaction is a terrible one to have. It is reactive at best and ignorant at worst. All of the armchair commander-in-chiefs can talk about what could have and should have been done differently in Iraq and elsewhere, but talk alone doesn’t end genocides.

With the UN now on the ground in Darfur and more troops committed from the AU, it appears that the new peace deal may be made manifest. Of course, once Darfurians are safely back in homes and can sleep through the night without fear of traveling murderers, the next step will be to deal with Chad.

Clearly, it does no good to get rid of the cancer in the stomach if it has already spread to the lungs. Only cutting out the disease at its source will rid the body of its ailments. Like cancer, the roots of genocide are hard to pinpoint, and ‘treatment’ can leave the patient nearly dead. This is not a simple solution, and any workable resolution will require creative minds - not inactive nations.

Momentum

2006-06-05T14:31:00.000-04:00

The bad news from last week was that the rebel factions, who did not sign the original peace agreement at the beginning of May, missed the extended deadline for signing the agreement on May 31.

After the rally in DC, it seemed like there was a lot of momentum. Newspapers began to pay more attention to the genocide, large and powerful nations sent diplomats to help negotiate during the peace process, and then a deal was finally brokered.

But this thing is still a long way from being over.

But, today, President Bush again stated his desire to have a workable solution. In my opinion, the best way for the president to salvage any sort of meaningful legacy is to focus on Africa.

While Americans moan and scream about gas prices, as Iraq falls apart, and the economy still looks like a giant question mark to many, George Bush could make the biggest difference in Africa. What if he spent the money to get the people on the ground to end poverty and hunger, cure disease and curb AIDS? What if he brokered peace between nations and inside of them? What if rebel dictators were voted out of office by freedom-hungry Africans? What if everything on that continent changed for the better because of initiatives spearheaded by this administration? What if, in 30 years, Mali was the next China and Malawi the next India?

Sometimes it's easier to move than clean your house.

The Fragility of It All

2006-05-22T09:25:00.000-04:00

As I mentioned last week, peace deals are never done deals. Lasting peace is a long process -- unending even -- and a small breach can throw the whole thing into the trash.

Reports early this morning mention a possible violation of the peace deal signed less than a month ago.

Of course, the Sudanese government is denying the accusations (just as they have denied involvement in or support of the Janjaweed’s systematic killings of the Darfur people). But, as always, those on the ground are telling the story that needs telling so that the world can see just how bad things are and how far things need to progress in order for the displaced millions to once again know the meaning of the word ‘home.’

Pray for the peace of Darfur.

What’s the Deal with the Peace Deal?

2006-05-15T13:46:00.000-04:00

Ever since a tentative peace agreement was signed last week regarding Darfur, people have asked me what I think about it, what it means, and whether or not I’m done writing about Darfur.

The last question is the easiest to answer: No.

As Jonah Fisher of the BBC puts it, “the short time since the deal in Abuja have shown the size of the challenge ahead.” Exactly.

Genocides don’t happen overnight, and neither does peace. Just as acts of genocide occurring over a period of time combine to form a ghastly ethnic cleansing, so the peace process takes months and years or rebuilding, forgiving, and moving on.

Look at Germany in the 1940’s or South Africa a few decades ago. In fact, look at them today. The scars of atrocity are still upon the land, the culture, the social fabric and the hearts of the victims. Understanding is a slow, but necessary, process. It can’t be microwaved for our convenience.

But, because the process of recovery is long and hard, one can only hope it will be permanent. Because it doesn’t appear out of the air like a magic trick, I hope it won’t disappear out of the air just as quickly. The baby steps of this process are fragile, and the support of the UN, the US, the UK and other authority-having entities are needed to parent the new day in Darfur.

Parts of the deal, like conscription of rebel troops, peacekeeping forces, and representation are only tangible manifestations of the deal. Other aspects, like forgiveness, justice, and healing take longer and aren’t as glamorous or measurable.

Here’s to hoping. Here’s to hoping that the marathon that is restoration happens as needed with the free world cheering on, offering a cup of cold water at mile 18. Here’s hoping for equality and democracy to be full grown out of the embryo of a peace deal. Here’s hoping that this never happens again.

Here’s hoping that Darfur Mondays become irrelevant.

Darfur Rally Video

2006-05-08T23:02:00.000-04:00

It's edited and ready to roll here. If you'd like a copy, drop me an email and I'll send you one. Thanks to my parents for their part in making this happen.

Impressions From the Rally

2006-05-01T21:53:00.000-04:00

I couldn’t stay for the entire rally, but the three sunburned hours I spent on the mall, surrounded by the diversity that has come to define our humanity, is an experience I won’t soon forget. Some friends thought it was odd that I was traveling to Washington, D.C. for just one day to march on the mall in support of a more concerted effort by the US to stop the genocide in Darfur, Sudan. But, as I told a friend at dinner, “This is my bowl game. I know of countless sports fans who travel to far off cities to watch their team play for a few hours. Assembling to raise awareness about the plight of the Sudanese is my bowl game.”

I stood in the much larger footprints of those who came before me and listened to those who spoke for civil rights, ends to wars, and reform in society’s areas that need it the most. Being on the mall in Washington makes you feel as though you are connecting with a history much deeper than yourself. The easy walk from the Washington Monument to the Capitol reminds you of the lives lost before you were conceived in order to preserve not just a nation, but the intangible qualities its represents: equality, freedom, and justice. While America has its setbacks and lapses, the freedom to assemble is easily taken for granted as you clap and sing along with those who share your viewpoints. Al Sharpton, Maunte Bol, Barak OBama, George Clooney, and Joey Cheek spoke with clarity and passion. People responded with clapping, shouting, and a deep resonance in the soul that only concerted action can prove exists.

One of the immediate and lasting impressions was the vast amount of Jewish people who participated. There is an obvious intrinsic connection for them, as descendants of a horrible genocide themselves. Not wanting to be in a long list of genocides, and instead wanting to prevent one instead of mourn it, the mall was filled with Jews, young and old, Reform and Orthodox, standing as one to say, “Never again.”

Equally representing their faith were a myriad of Jewish teenagers. Some wore matching shirts, some made signs, but all stood and listened to the likes of Elie Wiesel and Paul Rusesabagina. I looked in earnest for just as many Christian teenagers who were likewise taking a stand motivated by their faith. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find any. I guess they were at a lock-in or a pizza party.

I then began to look for any Christian groups, old or young. Again, I came up empty. Right before I left, I did see two men holding a banner with their church name, followed by, “welcomes you.” Had all the Christians arrived early, and were they all sitting up front where I couldn’t see their banners and T-shirts? Probably not. It was Sunday, after all, so I’m sure they were at home eating a big lunch before taking a nap in front of the TV. Outnumbering them were not only the Jews, but the Unitarian Universalists, the hippies, the university students, and the Chinese (look for another post later this week detailing this last group).

Maybe the Christian groups decided not to go because they had other events to attend. Maybe they were all busy, or organizing prayer vigils to remember the 400,000 victims of this genocide. Maybe, as the Jews marched, the Christians prayed, and both acts will combine to initiate a wave of action that ends this devastation.

I only assumed that a religion and way of life that models itself after one known as the Prince of Peace would turn out in droves in order to bring about peace. I only assumed that a religion that normally grabs headlines with their mantra about the ‘sanctity of life’ would march for a cause that seeks to protect that very ideal in Sudan. I only assumed that a group who would have overwhelmingly come out to protest abortion rights would also participate when a protest is called to combat the innocent slaughter of human beings.

Christians do care about this issue. I have been asked to speak to several Christian groups about the reality of genocide in Darfur. The American church is slowly waking up to what greets most of the world everyday: hunger, war, disease, and injustice.

Being on the mall helps everyone to dream. And yesterday, I, too, had a dream that one day, the American church will stand up and be the ones who advocate a quality of life that includes healthcare and happiness for everyone. I had a dream that no corrupt regime in any country would even think of taking advantage of its people because Christians the world over would be ready to protest, boycott, and call attention to injustice. I had a dream that the American church could be the catalyst that brings equal rights to all human beings and celebrates the diversity on earth as a reflection of the diversity that we know will be in heaven. I had a dream that Christians in America, often the very privileged class, would give of their time, resources, and talents to bring about the change that needs to occur to ensure that every living thing is protected and given a chance to be themselves and better their communities.

I have a lifelong call to motivate the American church to be the change that is needed in order to bring about the Kingdom of God on earth as it is in heaven. It starts with taking a first step in protest, not with sitting in silence.

Critical Week for Darfur

2006-04-24T09:57:00.000-04:00

Every week is critical for Darfur, but this week, several stories are occupying the headlines that have far-reaching implications for Darfur, Sudan, and the displaced victims of the genocide.

Osama Bin Laden

Just when you thought this guy had disappeared from the news to die in some cave somewhere, he releases another video of himself. Although the tape’s legitimacy is in question, this message calls for jihadists to convene in Darfur to fight against a possible UN force. Part of the genocide is religiously based: the Muslim Sudanese government is targeting non-Muslims, and the government-backed janjaweek militia is largely Muslim as well. Osama, who is opposed to Western influence in Muslim areas, wants to stop a non-African Union force from keeping the peace in Darfur and in the refugee camps. Of course, the government is still denying any involvement in the genocide and claims that things are peaceful, but the latest BBC news proves otherwise.

UN Votes

Later this week, the UN will vote on whether or not to send in troops to keep the peace in Darfur, as well as protect refugee camps. The African Union troops, who are horribly underfunded and only 7,000 strong, need reinforcements and a multi-national UN force could keep a lot more peace and save a lot more lives.

Also up for vote are UN sanctions on 4 key members of Sudan’s government. The sanctions include travel and trade restrictions, among other things. Unfortunately, Russia and China have said that they will veto any such resolution. Both countries are trading partners (oil) with Sudan and want to continue to benefit from its reserves.

Rally

I talk about it almost every Monday, but in 6 days, I’ll be on the mall. I hope to blog about it Sunday night and take some video as well.

History

Tomorrow is Holocaust Remembrance Day. Pray that we won’t have a Darfur Remembrance Day years from now. Pray that action will happen, people will be mobilized, and change will occur so that millions of lives can be spared and rebuilding can begin.

This Is Pretty Exciting Stuff

2006-04-17T21:50:00.000-04:00

Below is the line-up for the rally I'm going to in DC on April 30. If you haven't made your travel plans, it's not too late. Maybe we can meet for coffee after we get our rally on...

*Joe Madison, Emcee (host of "The Black Eagle," nationally syndicated radio broadcast)
*Elie Wiesel (Nobel Prize for Peace, 1986, Holocaust survivor)
*U.S. Representative Frank Wolf (Virginia, co-chair Congressional Sudan Caucus)
*Governor Jon Corzine (New Jersey)
*Paul Rusesabagina (Rwandan genocide survivor, depicted in the movie "Hotel Rwanda")
*Joey Cheek (U.S. Olympic Team, speed skater, Gold & Silver medalist, Torino, donated his winnings to Darfur charity)
*Russell Simmons (Founder, Def Jam Recordings; Chairman, Foundation for Ethnic Understanding)
*Rabbi Marc Schneier (President and Founder, Foundation for Ethnic Understanding)
*Cardinal Theodore McCarrick (Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.)
*Dr. Richard Land (President, Southern Baptist Convention, Ethics & Religious Liberties Commission)
*Rev. John L. McCullough (Executive Director and CEO, Church World Service)
*Rabbi David Saperstein (Director, Religious Action Center)
*Manute Bol (former NBA star, born in Sudan)
*Former Marine Captain Brian Steidle (Advisor to African Union forces in Darfur)
*Reverend Gloria White-Hammond (National Chairwoman, Million Voices for Darfur Campaign)
*Geoff Tunnicliff (International Director, World Evangelical Alliance)
*Simon Deng (Sudan Freedom Walk)
*Rabbi Steve Gutow (Jewish Council for Public Affairs)
*Ruth Messinger (Executive Director, American Jewish World Services; Former President, Borough of Manhattan)
*Erin Mazursky (Executive Director, STAND)
*David Rubenstein (Save Darfur Coalition)
*"Big & Rich" (Country music stars, playing acoustic)
*Gospel Choir (performing with special guest, TBA)

Elie Wiesel and Paul Rusesabagina are enough to get me pumped up as it is, but when Manute Bol shows up, the party really gets started.

Week of Big News

2006-04-10T21:19:00.000-04:00

For those who know me personally (and for those who don’t, but wish they did), all of my posts this week will relay big personal news, some of it months in the making. While very little of the content will deal with my usual social commentary, all of the news will enhance my ability in that arena. So, coinciding with Holy Week is my own week of transformation, announcement, and change.

My big news about Darfur is that I will be attending the rally on the mall. With the generous help of my parents, I will fly to DC on Sunday morning, April 30 and attend the gathering which will be the culmination of the Million Voices for Darfur Campiagn. The signatures and postcards that have been collected for the last several months will be presented to members of Congress and the executive branch. Such a presentation is done in the hopes that these elected officials will know how much the American people care about the unfolding horrors in Sudan.

I am obviously excited about the trip (and will write about it here), after having participated in my first public demonstration only a few weeks ago. This rally looks to be much larger and will be a celebration and a call to action and I can’t wait to be a small fraction of the multitude. I will be standing in the exact same place where many faithful and aware Americans have stood before me, expressing their concerns in hopes that their representation will act. It is moments like these that make me proudest to be an American and to live in a land in which people can assemble peaceably for any reason they choose.

If you haven’t yet done your part to be one of the million voices, you can do so here. And if you’re going to be on the mall, rally on, my friend.

And So It Continues…

2006-04-03T20:09:00.000-04:00

It would be wonderful to be able to write about some good news coming out of Darfur. After all, it looks as though the UN may take over the peacekeeping operation now being done by a dilapidated African Union force. But even that cloud of hope has a dark thunderhead behind it.

Now, the Sudanese government is trying to stop a UN convoy from surveying the Darfur region in order to see what type of multi-national force it will need to deploy. This is the same Sudanese government that paid the New York Times nearly a million dollars to place an ad extolling the virtues of Sudan and how the violence had stopped there. Apparently this government is in more denial about the reality along its western border than Charles Taylor is about his involvement in Sierra Leone massacres. (If the preceding reference made no sense to you, check out BBC News’ Africa page. It’s the best on the web regarding what’s happing on the continent.)

While there is increasingly much to be done in the way of aid, the killing occurring right now needs to first be stopped. This will allow a small, but needed, feeling of security to exist so that aid organizations can do their jobs in the overcrowded refugee camps in Darfur and neighboring Chad. Then, hopefully, all of Sudan can sit at the table and negotiate the future of the country, including dealing with its atrocious past.

The US can play a major role in all of this. Being voted on tomorrow is a supplemental appropriation bill that includes $100 million in aid for Darfur. And, according to Brian Steidle, 90% of all hand-written letters are read by members of Congress. The lesson: take the time and the $0.39 to write a letter and the odds are good that your voice will be heard.

Also on the radar is a rally for Darfur happening on the mall in DC. On April 30, the Million Voices for Darfur campaign will be presenting the signatures from all over America by those who want their representation on the hill to care and do more to stop the genocide. If you haven’t signed up yet, click here. I hope to be in attendance and, of course, will blog about it.

But, there are still 27 long days in between now and then. Hopefully in these days, the Sudanese government will be able to see what it is doing to its own people and allow international involvement in order to save not only the lives of its citizens, but the future of its country.

Fresh Ideas

2006-03-27T20:56:00.000-05:00

I saw this today and was amazed at the freshness of thinking. Coinciding with the rally on the Mall in DC on April 30 is a campaign entitled Dining for Darfur. Certain restaurants can sign up and 5% of the day's revenue will go to benefit humanitarian relief efforts in Darfur. Most of the restaurants are in New York, but if there is one near you, go out to eat and don't feel bad about what you order. And, if there's not one near you, tell your buddy who works at your favorite joint so they can get listed and get involved.

Thinking like this changes the world.

Choices and Words

2006-03-20T20:42:00.000-05:00

There was unfortunate news out of Khartoum today: Sudanese president Omar al-Beshir has summarily rejected a multinational UN force from keeping the peace in Darfur. Mr. al-Beshir believes that foreign intervention in his country will not help the people victimized by the genocide in Darfur. Instead, the president believes that the current AU force is enough to keep the peace and preside over the deteriorating security situation.

It doesn't take an expert on Darfur to know that such a suggestion is naive at best and absurd at worst. Perhaps Mr. al-Beshir is afraid to take a good long look at the situation his government is more than partly responsible for. A simple walk through the refugee camps in western Sudan and eastern Chad will show that people are remaining hungry, militias still run rampant and the depleted force of African Union soldiers is much too little to help keep the peace and give the victims a chance at recovery.

Even worse, Mr. al-Beshir claims he is committed to peace in Darfur. He says, "We reiterate our determination and keenness to achieve a lasting and comprehensive peace in Darfur through direct negotiations with the rebels to stop the bloodshed and killing of women, children and elderly people." This is ironic since another man, Mudawi Ibrahim Adam, has been jailed three times in the past year and a half for advocating for a lasting peace in Darfur. While Mr. Adam has his own views regarding the positive impact of security forces, his plight reveals the hypocrisy of the current regime.

As I told a south Florida congregation this weekend, the situation in Africa in general and Darfur in particular is a big mess. Pick a disease and an injustice, and I'm sure you can find it in Africa. This scares lots of people and paralyzes them from action. They look at the continent and think, "Where can I even start? There's so much that needs to be done, surely I can't make a difference. Big things need to happen in order to bring about change, and my small thing won't amount to much."

Obviously, logic like this will prevent anything good at all from happening. Every little act counts, whether it is signing up for the Million Voices campaign, donating money to a worthy organization, or supporting more UN and American involvement. Regardless, something must be done, and Mr. al-Beshir's words do very little to relieve the situation. Remember: inaction is a choice, too.

Mainstream Media Strikes Again

2006-03-13T21:07:00.000-05:00

This morning, NBC’s Today Show ran a piece on Darfur. It’s good to see this story getting the airtime it deserves in our American media outlets that are mainly driven my advertising dollars. I, of course, would like to think that this had some thing to do with my letter to Matt Lauer, but I know better. Nonetheless, I will give credit where credit is due, so thanks to NBC for educating your viewers.

Hollywood

2006-03-06T21:48:00.000-05:00

Below is the link to a video I made and showed to a group I spoke to last week about Darfur. The quality is okay. If you'd like a better copy, let me know and I'll get one to you. It is a quick and easy overview to show people who don't know what's going on over there. Enjoy.

Darfur Video

Writing in the Margins

2006-02-27T13:44:00.000-05:00

The Million Voices for Darfur campaign swings into high gear as February comes to an end. The movement hopes to collect over a million postcards, emails, signatures and phone calls in support of more U.S. involvement to end the genocide currently taking place in Darfur, Sudan. Between now and April 30, these items will be collected and then delivered to the president’s desk in Washington D.C.

The postcard that they are urging people to sign has the following text:

"Dear President Bush: During your first year in the White House, you wrote in the margins of a report on the Rwandan genocide, “Not on my watch.” I urge you to live up to those words by using the power of your office to support a stronger multinational force to protect the people of Darfur."

I think it is interesting the words Mr. Bush wrote in the margins. Sometimes, I thumb through books I read years ago, looking for highlights and underlines, and any notes I may have made in the margins. Usually, those words came in a moment of epiphany and revelation in which a brilliant thought crossed my mind that motivated me enough to write it down in hopes I could revisit the idea later. In other words, the writing in the margins is rarely meaningless.

I assume the same is true for the president’s marks on the Rwandan report. I doubt he did it as a show or display of resolve. I believe he wrote those words in a moment of heartbreak and sincerity. The question now is whether or not those old words can stir up new action.

Criticism is always easy to do; action and encouragement are much harder to come by. I believe the million voices campaign is a wonderful mixture of action and persuasion and will hopefully bring about the desired result of more direct U.S. and international involvement in Sudan. To do your part and write in the margins, click here and make your voice heard.

American Money

2006-02-20T16:41:00.000-05:00

While my main goal in writing about Darfur on Mondays is to raise awareness, there is no doubt that many other resources are needed to effectively end the genocide in Sudan. Resources like troops, protection, medical supplies, and of course, money, go a long way to helping a nation heal and carry on.

Thankfully, last week, President Bush took a small step to ensure that money, American money, would reach those victimized in this genocide. He sent a supplemental funding proposal to Congress, asking for $514 million in aid for Sudan, $339 million of which is earmarked for Darfur.

This is obviously good news on several fronts, especially for those who will be helped the most by this money. Sure, it could be more, but when you're talking about money, you can always have more. The amount the President asked for (and should get as Congress is expected to approve this measure) is a significant amount and will in fact go a long way in Darfur.

More importantly, this is a step in the right direction for this president, a self-proclaimed Christian. Up until now, we have seen Mr. Bush brush aside and underfund many relief programs, both at home and abroad. I am excited and glad to see him fighting for justice and helping the oppressed half a world away. I hope this is the first of many more steps for this president, so that he can leave a positive legacy - one that has to do with giving away American money, and not merely 'protecting' it.

Bullets for Food

2006-02-13T20:41:00.000-05:00

I'm not much for armed conflict. The notion of taking aim and firing at someone, or pressing a button to drop a bomb on a village kind of makes me sick. As each day passes, I'm glad that my chances of getting drafted grow smaller, and I continue in relative peace in my nice American life.

However, there are certain instances in which I would not hesitate to fight back, and sometimes wonder how much violence I might be capable of. Were someone to attack someone I love, I like to think that I'd blow their head off without another thought. Or I like to think that I'll be the one to stand up when I see someone weaker being picked on or pushed around. Thankfully, none of those situations have arisen, so I haven't had to put myself in harm's way.

With all of the armed conflict, mass murders and gang rapes going on in Sudan, I held out hope that it wouldn't come down to a powerful nation dropping bombs from expensive planes. And then I read this news. Last week, an armed militia hijacked aid trucks full of food that was to nourish nearly two million refugees. News like that makes me want to get a gun and stand guard. And if anyone wants to steal food trucks, they'll get a bullet or two in return.

A situation like this shows us that money is too easy of an answer. In order to use the money of countries like the US to buy food and supplies that so many survivors badly need, a peace-keeping presence is mandatory to insure fair distribution. Without it, food gets stolen and nothing gets done.

Currently in process is the increasing of UN troops in order to prevent occurrence like those that happened last week from repeating. One can only wonder the peace America could keep were its troops not scattered elsewhere. Nonetheless, there is still hope in Darfur - not that the food will be returned, but that sacrificial soldiers will be on the ground to make sure people get to eat.

A Genocide By Any Other Name

2006-02-06T14:42:00.000-05:00

"In a stunning act of moral and political betrayal, committed for the most expedient of reasons, the Bush administration State Department has suddenly decided that Darfur isn't the site of genocide after all."

The above opener from an article in the Sudan Tribune is important on several fronts. Again, it shows how little important news we get in America, and it also highlights the cold shoulder Africa is receiving from most of the industrialized world (the part of the world with the military and monetary resources to help the most and best).

However, it also shows how an administration can think that by ignoring something, it is sure to go away. Without getting into other issues relating to this presidency, and other topics on which we've heard "No comment" from the White House, the news last Friday shows that Darfur is being given the silent treatment, and maybe, just maybe, it will walk back to Africa with the poverty and disease and leave us alone.

Calling a situation a 'genocide' is serious business. The label carries with it an imperative to act. We hope that we would be appalled if our friend recounts how he watched as his teenage neighbor was kidnapped, or how he didn't jump in front of the car that was about to hit the baby. But when our government (all of it, not just the executive branch) labels mass murder and displacement as genocide and then does nothing to stop its continuation, we sit comfortably on our couches, munching away at our pretzels and cheese.

For the Bush team to now recant their earlier label and declare the situation was, after all, not a genocide, is like our friend rationalizing his inaction: "Well, the teenager looked like she wanted to go with the kidnapper, and the baby, well, it shouldn't have been in the street in the first place." Statements that carry a hint of truth surrounded by opinion may help us sleep better at night, but the reality remains. People are being killed, raped, and forced from their homes.

Call it genocide, call it systematic killing, call it a crapshoot of an unfortunate predicament. It doesn't change the reality of what's happening. People are dying as their homes are set ablaze. Gang rape is commonplace. Safety is a distant memory. And all this during the month when the US assumes the presidency of the UN Security Council, a position with a little clout in a deteriorating agency. There is much to be done. May we worry more that we're not doing enough than what to call this thing.

Replay

2006-01-30T20:32:00.000-05:00

This isn't getting any play in the press, so I'll reprint it and try to get the word out. This is a question to and answer from President Bush last week as he spoke at Kansas State:

Q: Thank you, Mr. President. One of the things that most of our Senate delegation has worked tirelessly on is the situation in the Sudan. Sudan was, of course, slated to be the chair of the African Union next year, which is -- they have tried, much like the United Nations, to do something. Does the United States have a larger role to play in the Sudan, and the entire sub- Saharan African region?

THE PRESIDENT: Yes, great question. We have played an active -- first of all, I do want to thank both Senators. I'm on treacherous ground here to kind of credit one versus the other, but I guess I will, since one of them is going to want a free meal going back to Washington. (Laughter.) I guess both. Sam, I mean -- Roberts is great on the issue, and Sam is the person I've been interfacing with the most, frankly, in the whole United States Senate, about his deep concern for life in the Sudan. Matter of fact, in the vehicle driving over here, he brought the issue up.

We have got an important role to play and have played it. I don't know if you remember the Danforth commission, where Jack Danforth, the former senator from Missouri, was my envoy to the Sudan to help resolve the north-south conflict. And there was a peace agreement in place. And the peace agreement was set back, unfortunately, because -- well, it's still intact, don't get me wrong, but the implementation was delayed somewhat because of John Garang's untimely death. He was the leader of the south of Sudan. So the important thing there is that we showed through diplomacy that it's possible to resolve differences, and to begin to reduce the abhorrent issue of slavery.

As you now know, the issue in Sudan is -- and by the way, one of the great strengths of this country is our faith-based programs that rose up in indignation about the slavery that was taking place in the Sudan. Much of the first wave of help that went into the Sudan, some of it was government, most of it was the response of the private sector, particularly the religious communities.

The issue now is Darfur. And when Colin was still the Secretary of State, he declared the policy of the U.S. and our deep concern that we are headed toward genocide. I think we're the only nation that has uttered those words thus far in Darfur. The strategy -- and it's a very complex situation. It would take yet another lecture to give you all the kind of ins and outs. But suffice it to say that we are deeply concerned about poor folks who have been run out of their villages into refugee camps, who are still being threatened by a jinjaweed militia and some rebellious groups that are trying to extract political gain through marauding and death and rape and destruction.

We've empowered the AU, and this is what your question really kind of -- part of your question leads to -- to provide forces on the ground, to provide stability. And what he's referring to is that the Sudanese government is going to be the head of the African Union -- that's what AU stands for -- which would then put them the titular head of the troops on the ground. And, obviously, that should be of concern -- concern to us. It is a concern to us, and it should be a concern to the AU nations.

That issue has yet to be resolved as to whether or not Sudan will be the AU. This is an important issue. We will continue to work with Congress to provide aid, food aid and help. We helped fly the AU troops into Sudan. We're watching it very carefully. We are considering different strategies as to how to make sure that there's enough protection at least to get people help and protection, and, at the same time, see if we can't try to broker the same kind of agreement we did north-south, with the Darfur and the government. Thank you for asking the question.

Me: I'm glad he's talking about it. And, I'll vote for Brownback (gasp!) if he mentions Darfur as he campaigns.

Give Peace a Chance

2006-01-23T16:25:00.000-05:00

A new campaign was launched last Thursday, dealing with the continued genocide in Darfur, Sudan. Coinciding with the 55th anniversary of International Genocide Prevention Day, the “Million Voices for Darfur” campaign hopes to raise awareness among faith, community and students groups.

One of the strongest points of the campaign focuses on heightening media coverage of the humanitarian crisis. While the genocide has been going on since 2003, the issue has still not received the attention worthy of the monumental atrocity that it is. Since then, senate confirmation hearings, pregnant celebrities and bird flu have all received substantially more airtime than the deaths of 400,000 people and the displacement of over 2 million more. It is hoped that this campaign will not just fill the gap in coverage of the Darfur situation, but challenge major news outlets to educate the public on the aid that is needed in Sudan.

To participate in this monumental campaign, go here and get involved.

I Have a Dream,Too

2006-01-16T22:11:00.000-05:00

If Dr. King taught and told us anything on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial 33 years ago, it was that you should either dream big or don’t dream at all. The speech he gave didn’t become known as the “I Have a Suggestion Speech,” but rather the “I Have a Dream Speech” that inspires us all.

His dreams so long ago of former slaves and former slave owners eating together was as far fetched a pipe dream as they came back then. Dreaming that his children wouldn’t be judged by the color of their skin was as hopeful as it gets. And dreaming that little black girls and boys could join hands with little white boys and girls was darn near impossible. But hey, if you can’t dream big, don’t dream.

The dreams that others and I have for Darfur are big dreams. Humungous. Larger than life. MLK-type dreams. We take the spirit of Dr. King and dream big. Hoping that the genocide will end tomorrow is optimistic at best and fairy-tale in scope. Dreaming that the victims will receive the aid and support they need to begin their lives again is a gigantic wish. And believing that this can all happen with an international coalition led by the world’s superpowers is a yearning so deep that only the most idealistic dare think it.

But, as we learned so long ago, we not only should dream big, but actively work together with others to make our dreams come true. Dr. King also taught us the virtue of never giving up. He showed us how to build a legacy that lasts long after our days on this earth. And he modeled nonviolence not as a task to be completed, but as a way of living. For these reasons we remember him today.

I don’t write these words to memorialize a great leader as I do to begin a new chapter in the quest to bring peace to a tried and weary land. I write to motivate the people who are suffering the most to continue the struggle of survival and to dream of a day when Sudan is both united and peaceful. I write to thank the aid workers, long overworked and fatigued from giving, that they may continue to dream of a day when the innumerable needs of the Sudanese have ceased. I write because I, too, have a dream.

A Single Step

2006-01-09T22:09:00.000-05:00

In hopes of raising awareness about the reality of genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan, Sam writes every Monday about a key issue in an attempt to stop the atrocity. Doing so may not bring about a wave of change, but it is a small ripple that represents the tide that needs turning.

There is an ancient proverb reminding us that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. This wisdom reminds us that each life experience, whether joyful anticipated or regretfully harrowing is begun by putting one foot on the ground, and then continued by putting one foot in front of the other. Such is how the journey began and continued for many "Lost Boys" of Sudan.

The Tennessean detailed a new art exhibit in its Sunday edition this week. The exhibit features works of the "Lost Boys" of Sudan - young men who fled on foot as their country plummeted towards civil war years ago, which inevitably led to the genocide occurring today. The paintings tell the story of the boys' arduous journey towards a better life in America, a journey that began with a single step and continue even today as they learn English and apply for college.

I encourage all of my Nashville readers to make time to attend this deeply illuminating and shockingly provocative show. My Oasis youth and I will get a private screening of the exhibit with commentary from two Lost Boys in March. Until then, I hope to see everyone visit the paintings and hear the story they tell without words. Countless other stories of Sudanese victims also need telling. May we open our ears to hear the cries of the world.

And Like That, It's Over

2005-12-26T12:22:00.000-05:00

Kevin Spacey’s character in The Usual Suspects has a great line near the end of the movie. In describing his alter ego, who is an elusive conman, he says, “And like that, he’s gone.” Keyser Soze is a cold-hearted vigilante who gets what he wants and then disappears without a trace. There is a lot of sound and fury, and in an almost mystical getaway, he is never heard from again. I think Christmas is a lot like that.

We spend the better part of November and December worrying about what gifts to buy, arranging travel plans, making lists, and wondering if there will ever be enough time. The calendar slowly approaches the doomsday that is the week of Christmas, and we are magically transformed into little children again as we rip open presents and wait for Santa. But then, the clock strikes midnight on the 26th, and like that, it’s over.

The collective world breathes a sigh of relief when the wrapping paper is thrown away, the leftovers have been refrigerated, and the tree all but boxed up. And, as quickly as we can take the Christmas music out of our iPod and wait in long lines for discounted wreaths, the holiday is a distant memory. We pack it away like we help pack the cars of those distant cousins that walk into our lives for a week a year. In a flash, it disappears out of sight.

What if the genocide in Darfur was over just as quickly? Sure, I’m an optimist this time of year, but what if? What if the tangled webs now woven of legislation, history and territory were over as quickly as we take down the Nativity?

Reality tells a different story. Those who are working diligently on the front lines know that rewards are small and that success is measured in the long term. Those of us writing about the situation from American living rooms hope with all the optimism that Christmas can bring, and wrestle with the actuality of the 364 days in between. Pray for quick relief, and work with perseverance.

In Print

2005-12-20T09:57:00.000-05:00

Today's City Paper carried my "Christmas is Not Your Birthday" article. Go out and get a copy. It's free.

Discrepancies and Denial

2005-12-19T09:57:00.000-05:00

In a group I spoke with last Friday, I mentioned that the discussion about the social discrepancies in America is largely being originated by rappers and movie stars. The tragedy is that the church is not beginning or continuing these discussions. And, in some cases, the church is perpetuating these discrepancies by denying they even exist.

One of the most outspoken American media columnists, Nicholas Kristof, wrote an excellent piece last week highlighting the discrepancies between the Christianity of today and the path of Jesus as it relates to the situation in Darfur. While some of his conclusions are clearly fiction, the theme of the article cannot be denied: there is something wrong with American Christian priorities when we eagerly fight the “war on Christmas” and ignore the war in Sudan.

When Kanye West and Nicholas Kristof highlight mass atrocities in our society, their message has the potential to reach the multitudes. When the church ignores their admonition, its effectiveness wanes. Meant to be a refuge in a time of need, the church now prostitutes itself to the power players that have money and influence. And, as always, the casualties are the ones the church has been ignoring all along: the lame, the sick, the blind, the outcast, the refugee, and the poor.

Until the church helps to shape the agenda on leveling the playing field across the world, its voice will remain ineffective. It is not that the message of the church is falling on deaf ears; it is being spoken with a mute voice. The American church has a chance to influence and reverse one of the greatest atrocities in history. To do so, it will need to relinquish its desire to meddle in the meaningless war on Christmas, and engage instead in the war on humanity. Destroying countless lives in Africa are armies bent on wiping out entire races. For the church to stand against this discrepancy would allow it to make its mark by following in the way of Jesus, promoting humanity and equality for all.

Christmas Is Not Your Birthday

2005-12-12T09:57:00.000-05:00

While American Christians continue to bicker about President Bush’s holiday card, families continue to die in Darfur, Sudan. This holiday season, selfless individuals could bring monumental change to a region marked by war, strife, hunger, and genocide.

In America, Christians of all types are quickly developing a legacy they will regret. Being known as tee totaling, tongue speaking, rule makers is one thing. Being known for hating homosexuals is another. This holiday season, I have to wonder: “How far have Christians strayed from the original meaning of Christmas, which marks the birth of one who fought for things like social justice, equality, and human rights?”

Granted, my 21st century political jargon is not the terminology Jesus would have used to describe his mission two millennia ago. His own words in Luke describe him as coming to “preach the good news to the poor,” “proclaim freedom for the prisoners,” and “release the oppressed.” Nowhere does he describe his or his followers’ mission as one in which they should lobby for conservative justices, slash programs for the oppressed, or engage in petty arguments over whether it is a ‘holiday’ tree or a ‘Christmas’ tree.

Righting the ship requires immediate action patterned after the selfless and humble acts of Jesus himself. Giving to the poor, valuing every life, and communing with those who are different than us are not new ideas, but ideas that need new life breathed into them this time of year. Instead of worrying about which church will have Sunday services on the 25th, why don’t we worry about whether or not we’re modeling the servant attitude of the one whose birthday we claim to be celebrating?!?!

Therefore, I ask my readers, in the spirit of many pastors (like Mike Slaughter at Ginghamsburg Church) who have asked the same, to take what they’re planning on spending for Christmas and cut it in half. Buy less expensive presents. Buy fewer presents. Your children, parents, spouses and friends will still love you. And, give the other half to groups who are positively making an impact on the victims of Darfur’s genocide.

I realize the detriment this would cause to our economy. But I also realize the benefits for hundreds of thousands of Sudanese without homes, families, medicine, and food. Christmas was never intended to be our birthday. Unfortunately, we’ve placed our capitalist agenda upon it, like we’ve placed our political agenda upon the values of generosity, equality, and forgiveness. There is still time to rescue the legacy of American Christianity before it becomes irredeemable. Let’s start this Christmas, giving of our resources and manifesting the hope and peace that came into that dirty manger so many years ago.

Creativity Wanted

2005-12-05T09:56:00.000-05:00

Creativity, one of the most marketable skills someone can have, could help to end the genocide in Darfur.

mtvU and The Reebok Human Rights Foundation have teamed up to offer $50,000 to the person with the best idea to get the message out that the genocide in Sudan needs to be stopped. The contest details are available here, and will award the best digital media project that raises awareness about the horrors occurring in Darfur.

So get creative. In the 21st century and beyond, skills like creativity and adaptation will keep you employed. Use these skills to also keep people alive.

Never Say Never

2005-11-28T09:56:00.000-05:00

Words have an uncanny ability to be all-powerful and meaningless all at once. In an instant, an insult can scar a heart for years, or a joke with the ‘N’ word can draw roaring laughter. Writers like me are faced with the reality that our words can have no effect whatsoever, or they can change lives more than we ever intended.

I’ve been to a few meetings of a local group in Nashville who has formed a coalition to help bring an end to the genocide in Darfur. When I went to their first public awareness rally, there was momentum around the phrase, “Never Again.” Knowing the realities of the Holocaust, Bosnia, and Rwanda inspires many to do what they can so that Darfur is not added to that tragically growing list.

Last week, Nicolas Kristof, a columnist for the New York Times who is trying to bring this tragedy to the forefront of American minds, wrote a column entitled “Never Again, Again?” While he acknowledges that a solution to end the genocide is complicated, he does not believe it is impossible. But above all, he shows us that uttering the phrase “Never Again” is blasphemy if not accompanied by resolute action.

Idle phrases are not new. Christians for years have said, “I’ll pray for you,” when a friend tells them bad news, and then they go on their way, forgetting about the promise they made. Politicians use empty words like Americans use gasoline, not worrying about the consequences of broken promises. And especially at Christmas, we all speak of the love, hope and peace made manifest in Bethlehem long ago, but we do little to see its manifestation in 2005. Maybe we’re better off keeping our mouths shut.

So what do we do with words? Are we better off never saying “Never Again” if we do nothing to make sure “Never Again” never needs to be said again? (Man, words can be confusing!) As a writer, words are my friend and my tool, enabling me to express what needs expressing. However, words are always limited. We learned when we were young that actions speak louder than words. Our mothers didn’t tell us this because it was trite, but because it was true. Actions express through humble humanity what our lofty words cannot. Actions take all that we are: our time, our fears, our energy, our lives and produce what our mouths cannot: consistency. My advice? Read Kristof, visit www.savedarfur.org, and never say never, unless your life is doing the talking.

A Small Victory

2005-11-21T09:55:00.000-05:00

On Friday, the Senate passed the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act. This was a major, but small victory in raising awareness and increasing advocacy regarding the genocide in Darfur. While it still needs to find passage in the House of Representatives, this small victory at least gives many the hope that the United States will do its part to hasten the end of this genocide.

Back to the Future

2005-11-14T09:55:00.000-05:00

An interesting series of events is coming together, forming a crossroads at which major change could be sparked to help end the genocide in Darfur. And, inspiringly enough, all have to do with young people. I am always amazed by the potential that exists in the minds of youth and at college campuses around the world – after all, the youth are our future. If there is to be an end to the awful situation gripping Sudan right now, perhaps we need to go back to the future:

- The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Committee on Conscience is asking high school and university students to write an editorial explaining to their communities why the genocide in Sudan’s western region of Darfur matters today. Students can enter their published editorials in the Committee on Conscience’s editorial contest.
- U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Robert Zoellick spoke at Khartoum University last week, asking both warring sides to work for peace. The speech is available here.
- Harvard University is playing host to a Darfur conference put on by STAND during the first weekend in December. You can register here.

Sadly, youth often make headlines for negative reasons. Riots in France neared apocalyptic proportions, and even in Nashville, teens were arrested last week for murdering a delivery driver. Their motive: they just wanted to kill someone.

As I’ve written many times, in working with youth, I’ve found their potential for goodness and greatness overwhelming. I have no doubt that young people everywhere have the energy, the brains, and the courage to end this thing in Darfur. It is up to us, the ex-youths, to encourage them, fund them, and support them, as we all do our part to not let another Sudanese die in this genocide.

Let's Make Some Money

2005-11-07T09:54:00.000-05:00

My dad once told me a story about a company that made a very charitable contribution. A minor league baseball team was having a night at the ballpark in which a portion of the ticket and concession sales would be given to a local charity. Wanting some sort of gimmick to pack the park, the team's staff began looking for something that would get people interested in coming to the game for a good cause. They thought of giving away a car, or having a silent auction, or inviting a popular celebrity. However, a local housing contractor decided to donate a new house for the team to raffle. The cost of the house, about $150,000 could have easily been donated by the construction company cutting a check to the charity. It would have been the largest donation the charity had ever received by far.

Tickets for the new house raffle cost $100, with all the money going towards the nonprofit. People could by as many tickets as they like. All in all, someone walked away with a new house, the park was packed, and over one million dollars was raised for the charity. My dad concluded the story with, "That's how you turn $150,000 into $1,000,000." Unbelievable.

The nonprofit world, I've seen, is just as competitive as the corporate world. People tightly hold onto their giving dollars, and when they give them, want to know that they're going to a good cause. Industry often has a budget for charitable giving, usually for tax and marketing reasons, and boards of directors and presidents must decide who receives these donations. Executive directors, development personnel, and professional fundraisers cheerlead and jump through hoops for these dollars, vying for the prize so that their outreach organization can help the most people in the best way.

I've always thought, that because of the corporate-like competition in the nonprofit world, there ought to be a corporate-like pursuit of excellence, customer service, and product delivery. Givers are neither ignorant nor naive, and will tightly keep their wallets closed until they feel comfortable and responsible enough to open them.

Those dedicated to seeing the genocide in Darfur end have caught on.

Don Cheadle, who has brought the cause to the forefront ever since starring in Hotel Rwanda, has teamed up with Timberland, to produce boots and shirts to raise awareness and stomp out genocide. People who like boots get a quality shoe; people who need to eat get some quality food. Get your boots here.

If more nonprofits gauged the needs not only of their clients, but of their donors, they could end up meeting and exceeding both.

Get Busy

2005-10-31T09:54:00.000-05:00

There is a new nonprofit out there committed to ending the awful genocide in Darfur. Darfur Peace and Development has a website full of information for those interested in helping to stop the genocide in Darfur. By Sudanese individuals, the site has news and information, as well as action steps to make a difference in this crisis.

And, they are currently looking for a website designer to help make their site more catchy, informative and helpful.

So, those of you out there willing to lend a hand, contact Martha and get to work. Help stop a genocide half a world away without leaving your home.

Stories That Need Telling

2005-10-24T09:53:00.000-04:00

I went to a steering committee meeting for Tennesseans Against Genocide, the group that put on the Darfur forum last week. It was great planning meeting, with a room full of individuals who believe that the situation in Sudan is serious and something must be done to stop the genocide. Lots of valuable ideas were shared about how to increase awareness, raise funds, and encourage Washington to intervene on behalf of the suffering. But the best moment came not in sharing an idea, but in an honest testimony.

John came from Sudan several years ago, when the civil war was just getting hot and heavy. He escaped as a refugee to America, where he could eat and go to the bathroom without the fear of someone raiding his home with a bloody machete looking for victims. He has kept in close contact with friends and family back in Sudan who must daily live with the fact that they weren’t as lucky as John and didn’t get to come to America. John knows how much worse the situation has grown, and he knows what genocide looks like.

His plea of reality stopped the fundraising and media gears that were turning in our heads. There are now over 9,000 Sudanese refugees in Tennessee, escaping certain death to come to the land of country music and grits. All of them have stories like John's. Some even have scars. They know first hand the accounts that we read in the papers. They have seen the horrors described by the weekly paragraphs devoted to this issue in mainstream media outlets. And they all have a story to tell.

I’ve said enough about the media selling out to corporate interests. It’s time to rise above the crap the news gives us and become our own news-bringers. As Jello Biafra says, “Don’t hate the media, become the media.”

There are many more stories like John’s – stories of real passion and life that we forget about or don’t get to hear in the land of the plasma TV, the SUV, and the Roth IRA. There are stories that people are literally dying to tell and for these stories to fall on deaf ears is sin. These are stories that need telling.

If a tree falls in a forest, and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound? If someone tells his or her story, and no one is around to hear it, does it still have meaning?

What Happened Yesterday

2005-10-17T09:53:00.000-04:00

What happened yesterday was beautiful. It was one of those rare moments in life, that sneaks up on you unexpectedly in a good way, like a random act of kindness, a bank error in your favor, or an award you didn’t know you were nominated for. It was a moment I may never forget.

I attended the community forum on the genocide crisis in Darfur, held at Fisk University and sponsored by Tennesseans Against Genocide with support from other community entities. The forum consisted of words by Sudanese refugees relocated to Nashville, keynote addresses by distinguished individuals who have worked in the areas of Africa, genocide and human rights, and inspiring words by professors and preachers. The forum was open to the community, seeking to raise awareness about one of the increasing, and increasingly ignored, international crises facing our world today: genocide in Darfur, Sudan.

When I arrived, the chapel was abuzz with anticipation. I imagine it must have felt like when Dr. King or Rev. Shuttlesworth was about to speak in the late 1950’s or early 1960’s. We were about to hear about human and civil rights being violated, a gross misuse of power that can often only be combated by good citizens rising to action. I assume most of us there know something about Darfur, about how it was quickly becoming Rwanda 1994 or Germany 1938. We knew bad things were happening, that women were being raped, children were being mutilated and men were being killed, but we didn’t know what we could do about it. We felt paralyzed, trapped in Music City, hoping for the best, but not willing to do much, other than wish something could be done and blame someone higher up as we muttered "There oughta be a law," under our breath.

What the forum yesterday showed us, however, was what the good people can and must do on their watch – on our watch. It showed us that awareness and advocacy is the great first step that all movements and revolutions must take on their way to immortalization, both in the history books and in the minds of the survivors. It showed us how to direct our anger and inspired us not to let it stop with being angry, but to let it begin with being angry enough to do something. Petitions must be signed, calls must be made, emails must be sent, and people must be told. Yesterday’s forum was hopefully the great, big stone cast into the placid pond of inaction, causing a ripple to grow into a tidal wave that can wash away walls of oppression and fortresses of injustice.

But it won’t be easy. Not when Bush appointee John Bolton blocks a report from being read to the United Nations. Mr. Bolton, along with three other countries, blocked a briefing by a UN special envoy detailing the human rights violations occurring in Sudan. Mr. Bolton felt that it isn’t enough to read about atrocities; they need to be acted against. While I agree with his principle about the cheapness of talk, I know the next step is to then lead the action against the atrocities that nearly the whole world knows are happening in Darfur. Sadly, Mr. Bolton did not lead that charge. Our president sure can pick ‘em.

Anyone who attended yesterday should have felt the conviction to act. That conviction might have come as a religious one from Reverend Sanders. It might have come as a neighborly one from Ms. Adeng, a Sudanese young woman now living in Nashville. It might have come as a humanitarian one from Mr. Jerry Fowler, a director at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, or an international one from Mr. Salih Booker, Executive Director of Africa Action. Or it might have been an impassioned conviction you can only identify with in the core of your being, after listening to the heart-felt rant of Professor Mahmoud, another refugee in Tennessee. Or maybe the conviction was simply a realistic one you couldn’t ignore after listening to the attendees, black, white, Christian, Jew, poor and rich express their convictions that something must be done.

Everyone left with numerous handouts, full of Senatorial contact information, important websites, and the realities of life in Darfur. But everyone also left knowing that simple talk wasn’t enough. We left feeling and knowing that something must be done, and we left feeling and knowing that we could be the ones to do that very something. Impassioned to act and emboldened to try, perhaps a group of Tennesseans will be the ones to end the genocide half a world away.

Hey, a man can dream. Which is exactly what yesterday was about – dreaming about a way to make it so that others can dream again. You know, one of those unscripted, unimagined moments life brings your way.

What Happens When Everyone Goes Home?

2005-10-10T09:52:00.000-04:00

Five days ago, the Chad embassy closed its doors in Sudan after attacks in its own country believed to have been perpetrated by Janjaweed militia.

What happens when everyone goes home? What happens when the violence gets so bad and the situation so hopeless, that in order to maintain their own lives, your allies and friends pack up and flee? What happens when your bodyguards need bodyguards, when your police need police, and when your army needs an army?

Without diverting this Monday’s posting from Darfur, I’m sure the feeling is similar for millions of Iraqis and one Mr. Bush. Violence and war are ugly, but some are worth fighting, and sometimes it’s one against everyone else. Darfur is such a situation.

When the innocent get slaughtered, when the children get mutilated, and when the poor get ignored, men, women and nations with a conscience must step in and act. People like that are the only hope for the world’s downtrodden and unfortunate. Stands must be taken and points must be made, even when common sense and logic fly in the face of such action.

This weekend’s earthquake and its casualties will haunt our news for the next few days. Again, a natural disaster has taken the world’s poor and shown us the victims of our neglect and inaction. I have a Time magazine that’s a year old (October 4, 2004) with one of the most widely recognized photos from the genocide. A year has gone by since the tragedy made national magazine covers. And it is still going on. Say what you want to about resources and politics. The fact remains that if everyone keeps going home, the people of Sudan will continue to lose hope, which for many, is the only thing they have left.

Talk is Expensive

2005-10-03T09:52:00.000-04:00

Peace talks have resumed after violence interrupted the dialogue last week. Teams from many sides involved in the Darfur conflict are meeting in Nigeria to hopefully broker peace and end the worst genocide of my generation.

While talking is highly recommended, and I am one to always vote for dialogue in hopes of solving conflict nonviolently, is there a time when the talking has to stop? Is there a point at which we have to leave the table and ready our battlestations? And if so, is this giving up, forsaking any chance of baby steps, and resorting to fighting fire with fire? Is it hypocritical?

We could easily make such a decision in terms of opportunity cost, like changing a career or selling stock options. However, I believe that 1+1 does not = 2 when it comes to human life. If fewer lives could be lost under option one than option two, option one is better, but neither is ideal. A third option, where loss of life is nonexistent is best, but perhaps not always possible.

Therefore, while talks continue and some Darfur officials deny that a genocide is even happening, speaking softly and carrying a big stick seem like a rock and a hard place, with millions of Sudanese in between. To have to depend on a slow government for protection from swift-moving rebels is hell on earth. But what is the solution? More talking? More migrating to refugee camps in search of food? Praying that either this thing will end tomorrow or that you'll die today?

We Americans can read all the reports we want, and cry about our $3 gas until we burst into tears in our Yukon XL. We can do this because we have the luxury of words. Talk radio and talk TV and talk everything else fills our cars, our houses, and our days. And at the end of the day, as we go to sleep, we can choose the good points, the ideas we agree with, and what we want to pass along to others. But millions don't have the luxury of talk being cheap. They have the unfortunate reality of expensive and pricey talk. The words uttered in Nigeria this week are not worth millions of dollars, but millions of lives. Again, the opportunity costs will never add up, but in a way we can't fully understand, words will.

How Long, O Lord?

2005-09-26T09:51:00.000-04:00

Yes, I'm still writing about Darfur. Yes, I'm still wearing my green bracelet. Get over it.

This week's email update from savedarfur.org was small. At first, before the headlines were filled with hurricanes and gas prices, Darfur made at least a little headway in the news, and the weekly email updates had several selections from major and minor news outlets. But now, there seems to be a scarcity on Darfur news. There have been meetings and rallies to raise awareness. There have been meetings and breakfasts with politicians and foreign dignitaries. And there still seems to be a grand deaf ear on behalf of the developed world.

Sometimes I look at my green bracelet and wonder, "How long?" How long until there is a real and lasting peace in Sudan, until women stop getting gang-raped, men stop getting butchered and children stop getting mutilated? How long until we become desensitized to the stark vulgarity of the previous sentence? How long until this genocide ends?

And is awareness enough? It is a great first step, but let's face it, Cindy Sheehan hasn't brought any troops home yet. Vanderbilt's winning football games, but not because someone is sleeping on a billboard. So what works in today's world of systematized power and lethargic bureaucracy?

There was a kid in college we called Baby Steps. We called him that because he took little, small steps everywhere he went: to class, to the dorms, on the football field. He got where he was going, but at a much more abbreviated pace than the rest of us.

As my friend and colleague Stephen says, "The returns in youth work are never immediate." I am beginning to believe the same related to grass-roots advocacy. The larger battle of Darfur is not just stopping a genocide, but an attempt to redesign the power structures inherent in society today. Talk about a long, uphill battle.

I saw Baby Steps walk up the hills on campus. It's wasn't quick and it wasn't pretty, but he got there. May those who are speaking on behalf of those who have no voice take the most educated and effective steps they can. Even if they're baby steps.

A Round of Applause for 60 Minutes

2005-08-29T09:50:00.000-04:00

Mainstream American media made a small step last night with 60 Minutes offering a piece on Darfur. Hopefully it will air again, or CBS will add the video to its online archives. The print piece is available at the above link.

"We’re Going to Burn in Hell for This"

2005-08-22T09:50:00.000-04:00

At lunch last Tuesday, a friend was wearing one of the white ONE bracelets. Another diner asked him what he was protesting or supporting with the bracelet. When my friend explained that the ONE bracelet represented the fight against poverty and AIDS in Africa, he added, “We’re going to burn in hell for this one. The church has really missed the boat on Africa.”

Last week I wrote about how exciting it would be if the church or other religious groups were the catalyst in ending poverty, genocide, AIDS and hunger, all of which plague Africa. Without getting Sally Struthers-esque, we throw away leftovers or trash old clothes without giving a second thought. We complain when it’s too hot outside, when the bugs are bad or when it won’t stop raining, all before retreating into our homes and apartments, complete with the latest in air conditioning and water heating technologies. We can’t imagine the reality of Africa’s poor and refugees, and over a billion people around the world can’t imagine our reality of disposable food and feeling ‘full.’

My friend said his comment with a laugh, but not to be taken lightly, he added, “No, I’m serious. For years Africa has been crying for help and the American church has stood by and hasn’t answered.” It reminded me of a story Jesus told.

Jesus told a story of two men: one rich, and the other, a beggar, named Lazarus. The rich man had all the luxuries of life: a fine house, the best clothes, servants, plenty of food, and disposable income for the future. At the same time, Lazarus was as poor as we can imagine, in shabby clothes, with barely anything to eat. And to plague him further, disease riddled him until the day he died. To further dramatize the situation, the rich man had full knowledge of Lazarus’ condition, and seemingly did nothing, save offer him the crumbs that had already fallen onto a dirty, dusty floor.

The story continues after both men have died, and Lazarus is in the Promised Land while the rich man is burning in hell. Able to see the comfort that Lazarus now had, the rich man begged that he might receive just one drop of water to cool his tongue. The request was denied, with Abraham reminding the rich man that he already had his heaven on earth and now was left to deal with his hell. Lazarus of course, had it the other way around. The hearer is left to think how things could have been different.

Those of us who know about the plight of others and do nothing are just like the rich man. This story is not about spreading the gospel, or baptizing people, or inviting people to church. This parable is about taking the wealth that we have and giving it to those in need. Period. No questions of merit are to be asked, no inquiries about future plans are to be put forth, and no worries about how much money will be in your bank account tomorrow should enter your mind. This story is about the generous giving of the haves so that the have-nots can become have-a-littles.

No doubt many of you will whine that there are a million obstacles in the way, and that there are other worthy causes. Churches have buildings to maintain, basketball leagues to host, and potlucks to cook. Christians have the abortion issue and gay marriage that needs supporting or protesting. We have to get prayer back in schools (or keep it out), the Ten Commandments back in the courthouse (or keep them out) and put another Christian in the White House (or keep one out). We have school plays to put on, soccer teams to join, and vacations to take. We have bills to pay, movies to rent, and shows to TiVo.

Have fun with all of that. Africa will worry about those things, too, one day. Right now, though, they need something to eat.

What Christianity Looks Like

2005-08-15T09:49:00.000-04:00

My previous post, regarding Justice Sunday 2 in Nashville, discussed how some Christians are being polarized by Washington political finesse. Instead of focusing on overtly Christian issues, they are being told that a few stigmatic issues are what God would have them fight for. As Justin noted and I agreed, some of the social ills that Christians want to remedy would be better left to the church, but some of these have resulted from failures by the church. However, there is a good chance this won’t be the case with Darfur’s genocide.

As the Washington Post noted last week, several faith based groups are at the forefront of stopping the horrors of the genocide in Sudan’s western region. A link to David Rubenstein’s (president of the Save Darfur Coalition) praise of faith based groups can be found here. Another Post editorial can be found here.

While Darfur is not the only issue Christians can and must confront, it is a great step for many congregations. I personally know of several churches and other religious organizations whose faith propels them to step in, raise awareness, and save lives. It will be greatly uplifting and incredibly honorable if it could be said that the reason genocide came to a halt in Darfur was because Christians stepped in and made a difference. It will also be greatly embarrassing and humiliating to therefore also say that the United States, with its nearly unlimited resources of military and money, did very little. Nonetheless, the goal is the end of the brutal killing and not finding someone to praise when that happens.

I continue to urge my fellow Christians and others of peaceable faiths to first educate themselves as to the atrocities occurring half a world away. Tragically, most pulpits and lecterns, like the American evening news, will not be the source of information on Darfur. But, once you know what must be done, good people of faith, your beliefs can do nothing but cause you to act. To not do so would be anathema.

Look Out for the Rwandans

2005-08-08T09:48:00.000-04:00

Great news out of Darfur this morning: Rwanda is sending a second batallion of troops to help keep the peace in Darfur. This follows a previous commitment by Rwanda to send troops, hoping to do what little they can to stop the genocide and prevent "Hotel Darfur."

What's more, the African Union also plans on sending in troops to safeguard the area. These units will be comprised of soldiers and police from South Africa, Nigeria and Senegal.

Who could have imagined a day when Senegal and Rwanda would do more for a country in dire need than the United States?

Rwanda = 538, U.S = 0.

In Memoriam

2005-08-01T09:48:00.000-04:00

Just two weeks ago, I wrote with great hope about Sudan's new vice president, Mr. John Garang. Tragically, Mr. Garang died this weekend in a helicopter crash after a trip to Uganda. I pray that my hope, and the hope of countless Sudanese, does not die with him.

I hoped the symbolism in Mr. Garang's getting elected could unite Sudan, allowing its citizens to see past petty differences to the core of their common humanity. I hoped that by doing so, a horrible genocide could be ended before even another person dies. Mr. Garang was a beacon of acceptance, diversity, and hope. It was a dream that his vice presidency could be a demonstration to the rest of the world how a nation can have differing ideologies at the forefront of its government and still provide for all of its citizens.

Tragically enough, Mr. Garang died while traveling back from Uganda, where he went to offer what help he could to end a rebel uprising and bring peace to another African nation.

The fallout from his death already looks bad. Sudanese TV originally reported his aircraft landed safely after losing contact, and now it looks like there have been riots and deaths in Khartoum. Mr. Garang was the great hope of southern Sudan and their quest for independence. Now, they must be their own hope. Their best bet will be to peaceably deal with their hero's death, instead of initiating the violence the former rebel leader never wanted to see again in his lifetime.

Things in Sudan may have just gone from bad to worse. A man who survived assassination attempts and warring factions died during peacetime. May peace be with all Sudanese, and those of us who hope for an end to all violence.

I Met Ruth This Weekend

2005-07-25T09:47:00.000-04:00

At a weekend retreat for TIRRC’s board of directors, I was able to meet Ruth, an immigrant from Sudan. We didn’t talk long, but it was clear from observation that she was a world away from the Darfur crisis. Or was she?

I begin work as a consultant this week with TIRRC and to ‘research’ my new position I met over lunch with the board. Comprised of men and women from Pakistan, Nigeria, Colombia, and Latin America, the group guides the efforts of TIRRC as they seek to give immigrants and refugees in Tennessee a voice in society.

Ruth is happily living in Memphis, involved with International Community For Refugee Women and Children. She, like my friend Simon from the hotel, has been in the United States for a few years. I don’t know if either is from the Darfur region, but both have seen the evil of war and the destruction it brings. Although faced with a new set of challenges this side of the Atlantic, Ruth’s life is safer and more stable than that of her brothers and sisters back in Sudan.

To see Ruth makes you smile. Her caring spirit for her community and the passion she has to better lives are contagious. She is working daily to assist refugees as they acclimate themselves to their new surroundings; lives lived near highways instead of dirt roads, in walled apartments instead of temporary camps, and with airplanes whirring overhead rather than gunfire and vigilantes.

What can we do to make the lives of the Darfur victims more like the life of Ruth? How can we make it so they worry about where to go to college and what to eat for dinner instead of worrying about if they’ll live long enough to go to college and if there even will be dinner tonight? Life is never easy, but we can make it easier.

Along with signing petitions, calling our representatives, and bicycling to raise money, we can simply be aware. As I’ve harped before, we must really search to find the news we need on the reality of the genocide. But we can also be aware within our own borders. My own Nashville houses some 2,000 Sudanese, many from the Darfur area. They come to America empty-handed, in need of basic resources, housing and jobs. Helping those who help them, like Ruth, is a way to ease their transition and facilitate their lives to embrace new sets of problems, the good kind of problems, like which bank to use, what to wear to school, and who to eat dinner with. It may be cliché to say that our petty problems are nothing compared to those who have lost loved ones to senseless violence, but it’s also true.

So embrace the truth; hire a Sudanese worker.

Darfur: Is Unity the Answer?

2005-07-18T09:46:00.000-04:00

Is unity the answer? I suppose it depends upon what the question is. Nearly ten days ago, a new Vice President of Sudan was installed in the war-torn country. What is so interesting is that the man chosen for the post was a former rebel leader, one who fought for the south against the Khartoum regime who sought to impose Islamic law throughout the country. Some 2 million people died in the fighting that began in 1983, but the south is still autonomous to the Muslim law applied in the rest of the country, including that a Muslim be president.

John Garang’s installation as first vice president also came with legislative reform granting more freedoms to the Sudanese. Garang, a Christian from the south of Sudan, had not been to Khartoum in some 22 years. (Sort of a political Ray Charles returning to Atlanta to receive an award where he once was banned from performing)

There are several seeds of hope sown here, particularly in terms of an end to the genocide in Darfur. It is encouraging to see a man with religious and political differences occupy the second highest seat in the government (complete with veto power). It is good to see a person in charge who understands the horror of war, the noble cause of independence, the disadvantages of religious rule, and the beauty of reconciliation. Kofi Annan said, “The international community must work together to preserve and nourish this tender plant, so that it grows into a sturdy tree of peace, prosperity and freedom for all the people of Sudan.”

This is a start. It will be inspiring for the whole world to watch a nation triumph with diversity in thought, religion, and politics at the helm of their government. It will be a relief for those in Darfur to witness those who are most able to stop the genocide do so quickly and safely. It will be heaven on earth to see forgiveness for past ideologies and actions personified in a unified effort to stop one of the worst atrocities of our lifetimes. And it will be a happy day for all to see an African government free of sanction and corruption because those in power sought to serve the people, their diverse, starving, needy people, instead of self-interest.

It has been said that disunity is the greatest heresy. With that in mind, I pray on behalf of all Sudanese, particularly those marooned in Darfur, that the Sudanese government can work together as a unified whole. Because when the political machines that be are well oiled with the grease of unity and action, the results are exemplary. Unity alone cannot be enough. Unity producing action brings about the greatest results.

I continue to encourage my readers to seek out news about Sudan on their own. A new poll shows the obvious: Iraq and celebrities get more airtime on American news. If you want to be a responsible world citizen, you will have to dig for news about Sudan. See previous Monday posts for links to such information.

Calling the Faithful

2005-07-11T09:45:00.000-04:00

This coming weekend is the National Weekend of Prayer and Reflection for Darfur. On the weekend of July 15-17, congregations across America will be learning about the situation in Darfur, praying for the victims of violence, and taking action on their behalf.

There are many things you and your community can do. Savedarfur.org/faith has many suggestions, including communal prayers for a variety of faiths. Some of the greatest strides towards ending the conflict have been made by religious groups. This weekend is monumental in ending the genocide, as individuals can turn inward and seek direction from their God to act outwardly.

In listening to a session from the Emergent Convention this weekend, I heard Phyllis Tickle say, “Prayer works. We don’t know how it works, but we know that when people pray to whomever they may pray, something happens.”

I believe that as people pray, they begin to look for results from their supplication, and they begin to actively work to produce those results. They believe in the intervention of a higher power, but not a higher power that works alone. Excitedly, they work together with brothers and sisters to actively bring about the peace for which they beg God. And Phyllis is right: something happens when people pray.

A Prayer for Overcoming Indifference

by: Naomi Levy

I watch the news, God. I observe it all from a comfortable distance.

I see people suffering, and I don’t lift a finger to help them.

I condemn injustice but I do nothing to fight against it.

I am pained by the faces of starving children, but I am not moved enough to try to save them.

I step over homeless people in the street, I walk past outstretched hands,

I avert my eyes, I close my heart.

Forgive me, God, for remaining aloof while others are in need of my assistance.

Wake me up, God; ignite my passion, fill me with outrage.

Remind me that I am responsible for Your world.

Don’t allow me to stand idly by.

Inspire me to act.

Teach me to believe that I can repair some corner of this world.

When I despair, fill me with hope.

When I doubt my strength, fill me with faith.

When I am weary, renew my spirit.

When I lose direction, show me the way back to meaning, back to compassion, back to You.
Amen.

Darfur Mondays

2005-07-04T09:41:00.000-04:00

One of the blockades to real progress in Darfur is information. America has the resources, connections, know-how, and economic and military power to stop this thing. Let’s just be honest for a minute: if we wanted, we could do some recon, find the worst militiamen who are killing and raping the most people and wipe them out. We could annihilate them. Sure, there would be severe political backlash, but the deaths of hundreds of thousands could be prevented.

As time passes, Darfur becomes a cliché. We add it to our prayers at night: “God keep us safe, protect our troops, end poverty, and help those in Darfur.” And it stops there. Because Darfur is becoming more ‘popular’ and more people actually know what you’re referencing when you say the word, we are at a critical point in this whole thing: either people can acknowledge the problem and stop short of any real action, or we can press onward using our knowledge as a catalyst for action.

Money is needed in Sudan, as is force, sanctions, medical care and shelter. But over here, prophets are needed. In the Hebrew Bible, the prophets told the truth. They remembered the good ole days and what caused the good ole days. They saw the present hell and knew what was needed to return to the good ole days. And they saw in the future either destruction or a corrected course. We are at that point in Darfur. We see that it’s bad over there; we know we should stop the genocide, but the question remains as to what we’ll do about it. We can wear green wristbands and sign online petitions. But people are still being shot from the air and women are still being gang raped.

I encourage my readers to visit savedarfur.org and sign up for the email updates. And when they send those updates to you, don’t delete them. Read every word of them. It is sometimes difficult to find the real stories about Darfur in the American media. Iraq, gas prices and Angelina Jolie get more coverage. SaveDarfur.org does a great job of giving us the reality of the Sudan in hopes that we can do what little part we can to help end this thing. It is 1941 all over again. The words “Final Solution” have made their way to Washington, but nothing is being done. Today, on July 4, Independence Day, help liberate the Sudanese victims with your knowledge-turned-action.