"April is the cruellest month, breeding lilacs out of the dead land." These opening lines from T.S Eliot's "The Waste Land" appropriately describe the numerous genocides that began in April, which is designated as Genocide Awareness and Prevention Month. Despite technological innovations and the magnitude of atrocities occurring throughout the world, many individuals remain ignorant to genocide that is happening in the 21st century. From Darfur to Burma, turmoil, instability, and the disregard of human rights continue to reign. To stand against genocide, we must educate ourselves and those around us with an understanding of these events. April is the month to take action and catalyze a change that will resonate past these thirty days.
Here are a few suggestion on how to increase awareness and prevent genocide:
1. Understand the complexity of the problem and stay informed with the issue.
Great sites include:
The Darfur Dream Team: http://www.darfurdreamteam.org/
https://www.hmh.org/ed_GAM_30Things.shtml (Includes multiple links to reputed sources)
A summary of contemporary genocides: http://endgenocide.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/GenocideAwarenessandPreventionMonthToolkit2014.pdf
2. Create flyers or posters around your school or community to let others know about the cause.
3. Plan an event! Check out the Genocide Awareness and Prevention Month Toolkit 2014 (Linked above) for tips and ideas.
Genocide cannot be stopped overnight, but with increased awareness, support, and activism, we can ensure basic rights and safety for all mankind.
