Mike Michaud: “I rise to speak about a human tragedy that affects the lives of millions of innocent individuals. The barbarism in the…”

“I rise to speak about a human tragedy that affects the lives of millions of innocent individuals. The barbarism in the Darfur region of Sudan continues despite international calls for a cessation of violence. Lives continue to be lost and hope for peace remains distant. On July 4 of 2004, the 109th Congress declared that genocide was occurring in the Darfur region of Sudan. Over 3 years later, the violence continues. Hundreds of thousands of people have lost their lives. An estimated 2.2 million people have been forced from their homes. Today the House will consider three resolutions related to Darfur. It is my hope that this body will continue to focus on this humanitarian crisis until the genocide comes to an end. H. Res. 573 recognizes and commends the efforts of the United States public and advocacy groups to raise awareness about and help end the worsening humanitarian crisis and genocide in Darfur. The responsibility to help end this humanitarian crisis is part of the values that make us American.”