Stopping the Genocide in Darfur

Stopping the Genocide in Darfur

Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (CA-5) applauded the passage of the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act, H.R. 3127, of which she is a cosponsor. This legislation would strengthen sanctions on individuals and governments seen as responsible for the murders and violence in the Darfur region of Sudan, and authorizes additional funds for peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts in the region.

"Unfortunately, the world has seen such ugliness before - the millions murdered in the Holocaust, in Rwanda and elsewhere," stated Congresswoman Matsui. "We should heed the lesson history has tried to teach us: Do not sit idly by, but take swift and decisive action to end such heinous acts. This legislation ensures the United States has the tools for such a response."

"However, the entire global community must step up ensure an end to the genocide in Darfur. Already, the ethnic cleansing has wreaked far too much harm on the people and the region - from hundreds of thousands murdered, a prevalence of rape, abduction and torture, to the destruction of rural villages, the displacement of millions and dire food shortages. The atrocities must end and we must hold those responsible accountable."

To date in Darfur, it is estimated that 400,000 people have been killed, and over two million have been displaced - many of whom are now living in refugee camps. Additionally, the region is experiencing a drought causing an even greater shortage of food.

http://matsui.house.gov/Newsroom.asp?ARTICLE2939=6308