Care about how your buying habits contribute to deadly conflict? Know every word to “The Anthem?” Then we have the announcement for you: Joel and Benji Madden of Good Charlotte are heading to D.C. for the Campus Progress National Conference to speak about the deadly issue of “conflict minerals.“
The brothers will join human rights activist John Prendergast in a discussion about how these minerals – mined in Congo and used universally in small electronic devices like cell phones – are fueling a deadly war in central Africa, and how young people can become activists on this issue. Prendergast is the co-founder of the Enough Project, an initiative of the Center for American Progress that works to end genocide and crimes against humanity.
Joel and Benji could simply be sitting back, enjoying the “lifestyles of the rich and the famous.” Instead, they are coming to D.C. to speak to you about making a difference on an issue that matters. And they certainly are ones to talk…
Joel is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and he and his brother, Benji, traveled to the Central African Republic with UNICEF last fall to witness the devastating impact that conflict and poverty have had on the region. The Madden brothers have been involved as “Enough Envoys” for the RAISE Hope for Congo campaign since last fall as well, raising awareness about the crisis at their concerts, creating public-service announcements, and educating lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
A former president, a Daily Show correspondent, the green job leader from the White House, rock stars, spoken word artists, progressive leaders, key youth activists, free food, and more.
Now all we need is you. (Hurry, the deadline is Friday)
The author is part of the Campus Progress team at the Center for American Progress, Enough’s parent organization. The fifth annual Campus Progress National Conference will take place in Washington next Wednesday, July 8. Click here to register.