The inauguration of President Obama might seem like yesterday, but this Friday will mark his 25th day in the Oval Office. The anti-genocide constituency in the United States has pledged to put a spotlight on the new administration during its crucially important first 100 days in office to see that it brings real change to America’s approach to the conflict in Darfur, Sudan. This week, activists across the country will be taking part in a quarter mark check-in coordinated by Enough and our partners at the Save Darfur Coalition, the Genocide Intervention Network, or GI-Net, and STAND. Take action this week through the following initiatives:
On Wednesday, Save Darfur is coordinating One Night, One Voice – a nationwide screening of the film Violence Against Women and the Darfur Genocide, followed by a live online panel discussion with Maria Bello and others. This night will culminate in advocacy surrounding the protection of women and girls from gender-based violence, the facilitation of healthcare (including psychological health) for victims and their families, the promotion of women’s roles in the peace process, and the accommodation of access to justice meant to hold the perpetrators of sexual violence accountable for their crimes.
On Friday, GI-Net and STAND are organizing a nationwide Round the Clock Call In during which people around the country will contact the State Department to insist President Obama appoint a high-level special envoy for Sudan. Naming a special envoy is crucial for effective U.S. engagement and sends a strong message regarding our commitment to building peace in Sudan.
We hope that you will take part in these events and help us push President Obama to do all he can to stop the genocide in Darfur. And don’t forget to share your stories with us afterwards!
John Bagwell contributed to this post