Learning about Darfur

This fall, St. Mary's students, faculty, and staff have been exploring the issues surrounding the crisis in Darfur, Sudan.

In September 2007, Caesar Ricci and Victoria Smith from the San Antonio Interfaith Darfur Coalition presented their experiences working in the Darfur refugee camps in Chad. They discussed the causes of the Darfur crisis, talked about the refugees’ ongoing health and social problems, and encourage listeners to take action to stop the genocide. The Blume Library hosted an exhibit of Ricci and Smith’s photographs which they took during their visits to the camps.

Next week, the Fall 2007 President’s Peace Commission program will focus on the crisis in Darfur. The PPC program, “Genocide in Darfur: Responding to Their Cries”, will be held from Monday, Oct. 22nd to Thursday, Oct. 25th in the University Center. Speakers from campus and beyond will continue the dialogue about the situation in Darfur and talk about what we can do to help.

But, what if you want more information about the situation in Darfur? The library’s research collection is the place to look. You can find hundreds of articles on Darfur by searching Academic Search Complete. You can also find online government documents and e-books on Darfur in the library’s online catalog. If you need more information, get in touch with a librarian.

To change a problem you must understand the problem. Use the library's research collections to become knowledgeable about the Darfur crisis. And, of course, take advantage of the upcoming PPC program to discuss your questions and thoughts about Darfur.

(image from the International Emergency and Refugee Health Branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; linked at http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/ierh/images/Darfur_sm.jpg)