Today, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D-WI) announced in the House chamber her decision to participate in the Darfur Fast for Life to raise awareness about the ongoing suffering of the people of Darfur, who for six long years have lived under the genocidal regime of the Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir. Congresswoman Moore noted that it has been five years since Congress declared the atrocities being committed in Darfur “genocide,” and yet people continue to suffer. Congresswoman Moore passionately made the following statement:
From sunrise to sunset today, I will consume only water to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Darfur. It is an insignificant act relative to the magnitude of the tragedy unfolding there, but I join thousands in this simple act in hope that a critical mass will prick our global consciousness, keep us focused on the thousands who have lost their lives…My fast won’t stop the tragedy unfolding in Darfur, but I hope it will carry me deeper into thought and help to reflect on how to end this tragedy.
Watch Congresswoman Moore deliver her remarks:
Since activist Mia Farrow launched the Darfur Fast for Life on March 27 to protest Khartoum’s removal of 16 aid agencies from Darfur, numerous prominent activists and leaders have joined the thousands of concerned citizens who have fasted in solidarity with Darfuris. Congresswoman Moore’s decision to fast demonstrates her commitment to a comprehensive peace in Sudan and renews our hope that America’s leaders are serious about finding a lasting solution to Sudan’s conflicts. To find out more about Darfur Fast for Life and how you can join Congresswoman Moore in fasting for the people of Darfur, click here.