Here’s What’s Going On in Sudan and How You Can Help
If you’ve checked the news today, you probably noticed troubling reports of rape, murder, other acts of extreme violence, and a nationwide internet blackout reportedly ordered and carried out by military leaders in Sudan. Celebrities like George Clooney, Bella Hadid, Yungblood, and Demi Lovato have taken to social media to raise awareness for the people of Sudan and ask everyone to help in any way they can. If you’re still a little confused about the crisis, here’s a rundown of what’s going on, how it started, and what you can do to help.
What sparked all this?
In April, Sudanese citizens overthrew dictator Omar al-Bashir, who ruled for 30 years and was previously indicted for war crimes and genocide in Darfur. (This change reportedly came after cash and bread shortages.) After the citizens got rid of al-Bashir, military leaders claimed they’d support a democracy and reportedly came up with a plan for how to share political power with the Sudanese people.
However, one of the main differences between the military leaders and the Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA), which led the civilians’ move toward a democracy, is that the SPA wanted a long transition period to give the country time to prepare for an election, while the military wanted to take a vote in nine months.
With those alleged disagreements, the military reportedly took hold of the temporary government it had formed, and the Sudanese people held a protest. Even though their protest was a nonviolent strike, on June 3, the military reportedly responded violently. The World Health Organization reports that the military killed 52 protestors and injured 700 others, but civilian reports claim those numbers are much higher and bodies were thrown into the Nile River.
Also, many women have reportedly been singled out, raped, and had their underwear stolen as a “war trophy,” according to the London Times. As reported by The Hill, one protest leader said, “The [militia] knows that if they break the women, they break the revolution. In this culture, there is no greater punishment for women than sexual crimes."
What is the internet blackout?
In an attempt to keep people from reporting the military for the attack and to keep people from asking other countries for help, the military reportedly shut down the internet across Sudan, according to the New York Times.
What you can do to help
Call or text Congress:
Call 202-224-3121 and enter your zip code to be connected with your congressional leader’s office, and tell them you want them to support the Sudanese people. Fast Company also suggests sending them the essay George Clooney wrote about specific ways Congress can help.
If you prefer to text Congress, text RESIST to 50409.
Donate to UNICEF, Save the Children, and the International Rescue Committee:
UNICEF works to help and protect children all across the world, Save the Children has been working in Sudan for decades, and the International Rescue Committee helps displaced families. There’s no doubt many, many children are being impacted by what’s happening in Sudan right now, and many families are fleeing and being displaced to avoid the conflict.
Sign a petition:
This Change.org petition demands that the United Nations investigate the military’s June 3 attack.
Post on social media:
Posting about social, political, or humanitarian issues on social media can be a great way to raise awareness. If you’re concerned about what’s happening in Sudan, spread the word to your friends and followers. Just be sure to share accurate reports and legit organizations people can donate their time and money to!
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