Hundreds killed or injured. Many raped. Bodies found in the Nile. Sudan is in a crisis — and most Americans appear to have turned a blind eye.
After dictator Omar al-Bashir was overthrown back in April of this year, things were looking up for the people of Sudan. Freedom may have seemed near for the country which was hopeful for democratic, civilian rule. But instead, the military rule that came after the coup proved to be fatal for hundreds of citizens in the capital city of Khartoum.
The peaceful protests and sit-ins in the city were brutally disrupted by the militia who raped, killed and captured many — including needed doctors. In Darfur, the atrocities continue.
One of the martyrs, Mohamed Mattar, was killed on June 3. For him, social media profile pictures have been changed to his favorite shade of blue on platforms like Twitter and Instagram to spread awareness for the current events in Sudan. Though awareness is vital and highly important in a revolutionary movement like this one, it won’t solve all our problems.
Many news outlets haven’t covered this issue, or have relegated it to pages deep in their website or documents. Almost no one knows about it. Muslims on social media and people of color have been using their platforms to share places to donate, announce protests and provide information. But this isn’t just a Muslim or an African or a people of color issue. This is a humanitarian crisis.
As of now, Sudan has been silenced. There is no Internet access. The United States has released a statement condemning the violence in Sudan. Later this week, the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Tibor Nagy, is set to visit Sudan to discuss an end to the outbreak of violence. As Sudan’s military generals have the support of the Saudis and the Emirates, it is unlikely anything will change.
So do anything — share a picture, spread the word, protest, donate even throw your hands together and pray. Sudan needs the world’s help — we need to start giving it what it needs.
Rahimah Baluch
Kenmore
