These are important times we are living in. Gordon Brown recently unveiled that a General Election will be held on May 6; but whilst our entire nation mulls over who will get the keys to 10 Downing Street, those in Sudan are also prepping to vote – citizens who are living in critical political times as the African nation prepares for one of the most important periods in recent memory.

 

On January 9, 2010, Sudanese communities and activists around the world joined together to call on international leaders to take urgent diplomatic action; to prevent an escalation of conflict in Sudan that could lead to massive human rights violations.

 That day also marked the fifth anniversary of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which signalled the end of the civil war. Millions were killed. Millions were displaced. Millions suffered dire human rights abuses. It is important that people not just in Sudan, but all over the globe, come together to drum up support.

Literally drum up support.

 

Sudan365 is a campaign that sees famous stick-men from acts such as Radiohead, Pink Floyd and Snow Patrol coming together with legendary African musicians Mohammed Munir, Yehia Khalil and Mustaffa Tettey Addy - to get behind Sudan and its people.

 

The country simply cannot be left to slide back into the oppression of civil war which crippled its people for nearly 22 years. Many fear the situation will get worse unless we, and our governments, stand together with the people of Sudan and demand that conflict is prevented and that human rights are protected.

 

Sudan365 is an amazing website that offers people the chance to truly make their voices and their beats heard, and ensures that we can make a difference. Please take time to check out their website and hit up some of the amazing work that they are doing including the Beat For Peace Activists music video:

 

On January 9, 2011 a referendum is due to be held to determine the future of Sudan. Visit www.sudan365.com to find out what you can do.

 

Make some noise people!

 

Words: James Prosho

Photo: Flickr user Martha Bixby