Condemning Attacks on Peaceful Protesters and Supporting Transition to A Civilian-Led Democratic Government in Sudan

Floor Speech

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Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 432, a very important resolution that condemns the attacks on peaceful protesters and supports an immediate, peaceful transition to a civilian-led democratic government in Sudan.

I am so incredibly inspired by the people of Sudan who organized peacefully and adhered consistently to a nonviolent strategy of protest in order to achieve a democratic future for their country.

I especially want to call attention to the Sudanese women, who played an outsized role in holding strong in the face of violence, danger, and even death. In the words of Andrew Gilmour, the Assistant Secretary- General for human rights at OHCHR:

What the world has seen in the past month and still now will go down in history as the greatest mass nonviolent movement of our generation.

Because of this nonviolent people's movement that refused to accept no for an answer, even in the face of brutal and barbaric violence from government-linked militias, the people of Sudan have achieved a real opportunity for peace. Just last week, civilian leaders and the Transitional Military Council reached an agreement where they will share power to pursue a democratic future.

In order for that peaceful transition to work, there must also be justice for those who were killed in the June 3 massacre through an independent investigation with real consequences for the perpetrators, along with true civilian oversight of the security forces.

I am heartbroken for every life that was lost, but I am also deeply hopeful because we have seen the shining light of courage, resilience, and commitment to nonviolent resistance movements and to the possibilities they bring for lasting peace. The United States must stand with the people of Sudan and do everything in our power to help achieve that peace and stability.

And, finally, Mr. Speaker, I just want to recognize a very important person in my home State of Washington, Mubarak Elamin, who has been with me on this issue of Sudan, his birth country, in making sure that we have all the information we need.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina.

Mr. Speaker, in closing, I want to thank my colleagues for offering this timely resolution to condemn the brutal attacks on peaceful protesters and stand in solidarity with the people of Sudan.

The United States must continue our efforts to support a civilian-led democratic government in Sudan and take action against those who wish to undermine the will of the Sudanese people.

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