Two years of conflict in Sudan is a somber reminder of global displacement
“I am from Geneina, a city in Darfur, Sudan,” said Adam Sadda, Delegate for North Carolina. Two years ago, on April 15th, 2023, war broke out between the Rapid Support Forces militia group and the Sudanese military. For Adam and millions of Sudanese people worldwide, everything has changed in their country.
“My hometown, the place where I was born and raised, was completely destroyed,” he said. “It’s hard to explain the pain of watching your home turn into ashes. Places full of life – like schools, markets, and neighborhoods – are now gone.”
The ongoing violence has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis, including mass forced displacement, attacks on civilians that have killed tens of thousands of people, and famine in parts of the country. Since the start of the war, more than 12 million Sudanese families have been forced to flee their homes – including more than 3 million forced to seek safety in other countries.
“Life has become a daily struggle in Sudan. And while the people of Sudan are still suffering, the world has mostly looked away silently,” said Adam, who lives in the U.S. and can only witness the atrocities back home from abroad.
Refugee Congress recognizes the weight of this somber anniversary. We stand with our Sudanese members and neighbors here in the United States, and we call for rapid action by our elected leaders to support the people who are in Sudan and to increase accountability for those who are perpetuating the violence, displacement, and killing of men, women and children.
Today, we invite community members to take action in solidarity with Sudan. Contact your members of Congress and ask them to support these bills:
U.S. Engagement in Sudanese Peace Act (H.R.1939)
Stand Up for Sudan Act - Would prohibit U.S. arms sales to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) until the UAE no longer provides material support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan.
S.RES.126. Resolution calling on the United Nations Security Council to enforce the existing arms embargo on Darfur and extend it to cover all of Sudan.
We also invite you to join Refugee Congress, Refugees International, and other partners to participate in a Day of Action for Sudan, whether by attending our candle lighting in Washington, DC, or by sharing reflections and statements of support on social media.
“As we mark the second year of this war, I want people to understand that this is not just news for us. It’s our real life in Sudan,” said Adam. “We are not asking for much. Just peace, safety, and a chance to rebuild what we lost. I speak not only for myself but for everyone from Sudan who feels forgotten. Please keep Sudan in your prayers and share our stories. The people of Sudan are still strong, and we still believe that peace is possible."
