Ariah's thoughts

TAKE ACTION NOW!

So, I've learned a lot about international debt relief and the stuff is just shocking. It's probably the thing that has gotten me more political then anything else. I'd explain more, but that will be for another time (actually I post a speech I wrote on it for my summer school class). For now though I thought I'd start by helping everyone take one (maybe two) small steps towards getting politically active. The first is this link:
http://www.debtireland.org/
I won't explain much it's pretty in depth, but the idea is basically to send an e-card to the World Bank and IMF (you'll learn) and let them know that the debt they are holding over poor countries is wrong and bad.

Number two, is this: There is this thing called the Millenium challenge. The rich countries got together (the US is a big one) and decided that in the new millenium we should help the poorest countries (not with oppressive debt like we did the last few decades- See the documentary Life + Debt if you want to learn a little). So the US had commited to giving 2.5 Billion, then it got cut to 1.25, not it might be 1.1 billion. So we are telling folks to call the white house and let them know we should give at least 1.25 billion. Here is the full email below:

We need your help! Lifesaving effort to fight global poverty in danger!

America’s Millennium Challenge to fight global poverty and corruption is in danger. Today, the Senate Appropriations Committee voted to cut requested funding by more than 50%.

YOU can help to save the Millennium Challenge!

America’s Millennium Challenge is an historic initiative to help the poorest countries fight poverty and corruption. It rewards democratic countries that use their own resources to fight poverty, and demonstrate a commitment to fighting corruption. Support for anti poverty programs such as this also helps the fight against AIDS because AIDS thrives in conditions of extreme poverty.

Unfortunately, two years after announcing this initiative, the Bush Administration has failed to get it fully up and running and fight for full funding. Because of this inaction, the House of Representatives cut Millennium Challenge funding in half. Yesterday, the Senate Appropriations Committee cut even further.

Announcing the Millennium Challenge in 2002, President Bush said there are no second-class citizens in the human race, and he "carries this commitment in my soul."

Now it’s up to you to tell President Bush to live up to his commitment and save the Millennium Challenge.

Call 1-877-HOPE-USA (1-877-467-3872)

to be connected directly to the White House.

Tell President Bush you support the lifesaving Millennium Challenge.

For more information about the Millennium Challenge and what to say when you call, please click here.

Act now and lend your voice to the fight against global AIDS and poverty.

This message brought to you by DATA, a member of the ONE campaign