NJ CALLS FOR ACTION TO ENSURE
FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS IN SUDAN

It has been seven years since the start of the genocide in Darfur. While there is less overt violence in Darfur, the situation of the people in the camps is still desperate –-and now the future of Darfur is tied to countrywide elections in Sudan.

On April 11, the Sudanese people will go to the polls for their first election in twenty-four years. The stakes are high -- the elections are intended to give the people of Sudan a voice in their government and in determining their own future. The elections are also a critical step toward a negotiated peace process and justice for Darfur.

The problem: most observers are concerned that the conditions for free and fair elections simply do not exist. There are continuing reports of violence and ongoing intimidation of opposition parties. Many people have been disenfranchised, and most Darfuris will not be able to vote. Human Rights Watch describes the process as a sham that will only serve to legitimize the ruling party and President al-Bashir, an indicted war criminal.

The U.S has already committed almost $100 million to support the elections. What more can we do?

Take Action!

Beginning this week, New Jersey will join with concerned citizens from all over the country to demand free and fair elections in Sudan.

Use link below to contact President Obama and let him know what happens in Sudan matters to you. Contact Senator Menendez and Congressman Payne, who serve on key committees on Foreign Affairs, with the same message.

Urge them to ensure that the upcoming Sudanese elections do not legitimize a corrupt and genocidal government, and instead reflect the true will of the Sudanese people.

Visit www.ecc4darfur.org to send a letter and take action.

With your help, we can secure justice for the people of Sudan.