Action Alert

Dear Indiana Rabbis and Federation Leaders:

From March 17–20, we hope you will speak about and sermonize on Darfur and encourage interfaith gatherings devoted to raising awareness and increasing activism in your community. 

Simply put, there is no question that (a) what is happening in Darfur is genocide, (b) the Jewish community has a special obligation to speak on this issue even if we have to speak alone, and (c) our activism can truly make a difference!  Our congressional delegation will be responsive on this issue if they hear from us.

Attached to this action alert are educational and advocacy documents we are encouraging you to use and disseminate in conjunction with the “100 Hours of Conscience” campaign described in the “action alert” enclosed.

As you know, the genocide in Darfur has been a priority issue for our community. 

Since last summer, the JCRC has done the following:

• Created and stimulated an interfaith “unity statement” published in the Indianapolis Star as a Letter to the Editor that was signed by JCRC, Indiana Catholic Conference, and Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis.
• Radio interview on the Amos Brown Show with the Executive Director of the Church Federation and two African-American students representing Ambassadors for Christ.
• Gathered leadership signatures from 16 faith communities for an expanded “unity statement” appearing as a one-quarter page ad in NUVO and the Indianapolis Recorder.
• Participated in rally on Monument Circle.
• Contacted other groups to increase awareness and expand coalition.
• Encouraged Senators Lugar and Bayh during personal Hill visits to co-sponsor the Darfur Accountability Act (S-495), which holds the Sudanese government accountable for its actions.  Bayh agreed to co-sponsor on 3-10-05!
• Co-signed Action Alert with Church Federation that will be distributed to Central Indiana Christian clergy.
• Provided educational and advocacy materials to Protestant judicatory leadership.

Sadly, there is not yet enough outrage about the genocide in Darfur, so we have a job to do.  Because of our history, the Jewish community has a unique voice and a recognizably special responsibility to be vigilant and to continue to draw attention to this issue.  We know that you will do your part in educating, coalition-building, and urging activism among your congregants and community members.

Please give us feedback about your community’s activities and we will circulate updates through our newly reinstituted Statewide Roundup!