Countering genocide: the growth of the movement to protect Darfur.

AS THE GENOCIDE in the western region of Sudan persists, now in its third year, the voices of concerned Americans have been raised, reflecting a movement that is both expansive and diverse.

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Since this genocide began in 2003, targeted offensives by the Sudanese government have resulted in the deaths of over 400,000 people and the displacement of millions more. Civilians have been systematically targeted in attacks by the Sudanese government and their proxy militias. In recent months, humanitarian conditions on the ground have deteriorated drastically, reversing many of the moderate gains of 2005. In addition, the Sudanese government's obstruction and harassment of aid workers, combined with continual shortfalls in international donor funding, has exacerbated an already untenable situation and left millions at risk. The recent signing of a peace deal between the government and one of the main rebel groups in Darfur marks a small step forward in the crisis, but without a strong international force to provide security and enforce the peace deal, little will change for the people of Darfur.

The unfolding genocide in Darfur has mobilized communities across the United States, coming from a great variety of backgrounds. Included among those inspired to act have been student organizations and religious groups, forming alliances united around the principle of protection for the people of Darfur. There is broad consensus on the need for a multinational peacekeeping force in Darfur. Many groups believe that the United Nations is the appropriate body ...