Description

In the late 1980s, Sudan was torn apart by rampaging genocide, and state sponsored violence. The crisis created innumerable orphans, often known as the the “Lost Boys.” The violence began again in 2003 as the Sudan Liberation Army (SLA) and Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) in Darfur took up arms. A peace agreement was signed in 2006 with some members of the SLA and the governement – though a universal peace has not been achieved. The violence continues in in Sudan today. As recently as Feb 2009 a new attempt at peace accords failed.

Though media coverage in the west has been extensive over the last few years, the international response has been slow. The UN has been the subject of much criticism, as many believe they could have lessened the violence at multiple opportunities.

There is a lot of discussion around the actual deaths due to the violence in Darfur. The numbers range from 10,000 to 400,000. This wide range is due to a number of factors – though primarily it seems to be a question of definition. The conservative estimates exclude deaths from malnutrition and disease. There is little debate over the number of people that have been displaced due to the conflict – over 2 million innocent civilians have be forced to flee their homes, and still live in displaced persons camps in and around Sudan or neighboring Chad.

The phrase “The Sky Poured Fire” was inspired by the book – “They Poured Fire on us from the Sky” which is an incredible account of 3 Lost Boys.  Learn more about the book here, or purchase a copy here.

Online Resources

http://www.24hoursfordarfur.org
http://www.darfurisdying.com/
http://www.amnestyusa.org/darfur/page.do?id=1351050
http://www.eyesondarfur.org

Your Purchase Supports: Save Darfur

All profits from the sale of this item go to Save Darfur. They are an organization dedicated to

• Ending the violence against civilians;
• Facilitating adequate and unhindered humanitarian aid;
• Establishing conditions for the safe and voluntary return of displaced people to their homes;
• Promoting the long-term sustainable development of Darfur; and
• Holding the perpetrators accountable.

Their website has a wealth of information and resources for those interested in learning more about the ongoing situation in Sudan. Please take a minute to learn a little bit more.