(l - r) Rebecca Hamilton, Genocide Intervention Network representative, author and co-founder of the Harvard Darfur Action Group, stands beside Paula Fernandes, director of CSE Volunteer and Service-Learning; CSE Women’s College student Rabiye Andican, ‘07; and Joshua Bloom, Darfur Field Organizer for American Jewish World Service and coordinator of the Save Darfur Now: Voices to Stop Genocide Rally in NYC. All three individuals participated in this year’s CSE Maryclaire McGuire Social Justice Day entitled, “A Call to Action, Genocide in Darfur,” held in Saint Joseph Hall McGuire Lounge on Thursday, October 26. (Photo by Courtney Smolen)

The colloquium, which honors the life and work of the late CSE Vice President for Student Life/Dean of Students, Maryclaire McGuire, focused on raising awareness about the genocide in Darfur. Highlights of the event included keynote presentations by Ms. Hamilton, Ms. Andican and Mr. Bloom on the complex issues that plague the region; an overview of the history of the Darfur genocide; information about the role of political and humanitarian intervention; and a highlight of steps individuals can take to help reduce suffering.

“Students’ voices today are extremely credible,” said Ms. Hamilton. “They are surrounded by faculty members who are resourceful, and are willing to help. Students need to put their experiences and emotions into words and inspire people to take action. They need to give a voice to the people in Darfur.”

The day’s commemoration sparked local media attention. Brian Wilson of WMBC-TV Channel 63 in West Caldwell, NJ, interviewed Ms. Hamilton, Ms. Andican and Mr. Bloom about the steps being taken by members of Congress about the crisis in western Sudan, and how young adults, like Ms. Andican, can get involved. 

WMBC-TV programmig emphasizes a family-oriented format to provide viewers of all ages non-violent, enriching, entertaining, and educational programs.

To watch WMBC-TV’s coverage, click here