darfur crisis: made in china

[not particularly "politics"-worthy, but it deserves to be put to the public.] Dear matt, Seize this opportunity to save lives in Darfur Donate today to Human Rights First’s Made In China campaign to stop the deadly arms flow from China! Sitting at your computer, it’s hard to grasp the horrible atrocities still taking place in Darfur every day. How can the killing continue, years later? One major contributor: China’s continued sale of guns and bullets to Sudan – the very weapons used to kill, maim, and terrorize in Darfur. Our recent report, “Investing in Tragedy,” reveals the link in stark relief, and newspapers and government officials are starting to take notice of the facts. The Chinese government has publicly denounced our report. Now Human Rights First is launching a major campaign to stop China from fueling the violence in Darfur and you play an important part. Your tax-deductible gift of $35 or more today can help support this important work. We need to reach $30,000 by April 9. Why is April 9th our deadline for gifts? On that day, the Olympic torch for the 2008 Beijing Games will stop in North America. Protesters will rally, further exposing China’s role in Darfur’s deadly crisis. From now until the Olympics, China is in a vulnerable place. We need to act while China is feeling the heat. Let’s be clear about the vicious cycle that sustains the violence in Darfur: China buys Sudan’s oil; Sudan buys China’s guns; the guns are used to massacre the people of Darfur. This cycle must end now. If we can stop the guns - and we believe it’s possible - we can stop the killing. China has stopped selling arms under pressure in the past. If we can do it again, we can save countless lives. Contribute today to Human Rights First’s campaign to stop the deadly flow of arms. Consider the fact that China was ratcheting up its sales of arms to Sudan when other countries were decreasing their sales. By stopping the flow of arms to the conflict, we’ll get guns off the ground in Darfur and send a loud signal to Sudan that China, its main protector, expects a permanent resolution to this crisis. The death, displacement and destruction must stop, and it is our responsibility to help – that means you and me. Many of you have already done much, but there is more for us to do that can and will make a difference. Today. Please help us end the continuing suffering in Darfur. My deepest gratitude for your support, Maureen Byrnes Executive Director