Joe Pitts: “as conflict rages in the Middle East and the world's attention is drawn to the crisis, it is vital that we do not forget…”

“as conflict rages in the Middle East and the world's attention is drawn to the crisis, it is vital that we do not forget other peoples around the world who suffer extreme violence. One Sudanese man recently said, ``We feel in Sudan that the world condemns us to die. Why? Our situation the world sees for 18 years, but no one seems to see help. We need mercy.'' A number of Members of Congress have stood on the House floor to describe the horrors occurring in Sudan. Yet, for some reason, this administration believes that the issue of Sudan ``is not marketable to the American people.'' Why in the world are we ignoring the plight of millions of Muslims, Christians, and those of tribal religions whose homes, places of worship, and schools are being bombed? What kind of civilized government bombs a clearly marked hospital or church? Mr. Speaker, the people of Sudan deserve to live in peace. Our administration must ensure that food aid is not used as a weapon by the Khartoum government against the people of the South and we must support the IGAD peace process.”