This morning brought the long-anticipated release of the Sudan policy. Activists have been waiting for this moment, not as an end goal, but as a starting point for the real work to begin. John Prendergast’s response piece helps explain why our work as activists is so important as the Obama administration begins rolling out the new approach:
As difficult as the process has been to achieve a potentially effective policy on paper, the hard part is now only beginning. Implementing this policy will require clear-headed assessment and courageous action. At key junctures, success will require the direct involvement of President Obama, Vice President Biden, Secretary Clinton, and Ambassador Rice, all of whom have important and valuable history on dealing with the multiple challenges of Sudan policy.
This week, while Sudan is in the headlines, activists have the chance to capitalize on the increased attention to make sure that the policy is implemented quickly and correctly. See the list below for ways you can take action this week:
- Join Enough, Save Darfur, and GI-NET tomorrow at 1 p.m. ET to discuss the new policy on a conference call. Hear Enough’s John Prendergast, Save Darfur’s Jerry Fowler, and GI-NET’s Sam Bell talk about the policy and next steps for activists. Dial (877) 254 – 9825 and say you’re calling for the Sudan Policy Call.
- Call 1-800-GENOCIDE (1-800-436-6243) to tell the White House and your elected officials that the policy looks good on paper, but the people of Sudan can’t afford a strategy that puts incentives ahead of real changes on the ground.
- Write an op-ed to your local paper. Talking points and additional actions can be found at our Take Action page.