Just Walk

By Anthony Toney

Last week, I participated in part of the Sudan Freedom Walk in Washington, a six-mile trek from the American University campus to the White House, then continuing on to the Capitol building.

The walk is meant to shed light on the referendum in Southern Sudan, the genocide being perpetrated against the people of Darfur, and the continuation of slavery and countless other human rights violations throughout Sudan, including in Nuba and Beija.

Prior to walking, my contribution to the cause consisted of merely raising my own awareness and being the proud owner of a "Save Darfur" t-shirt. The words on a shirt, however, can only do so much.

So, when I was given the opportunity to physically participate in something I believed in, I jumped on it. I was excited for the opportunity to put my political beliefs and convictions into action.

The walk and its positive message were tainted by the "Anti-Muslim" sentiments that were littered across the event like rotten sprinkles on a yummy cupcake.

Understanding the complete social and religious context of the genocide is important, and the perspective of Sudanese victims should be acknowledged.

However, when inviting people of all "walks of life" to participate for a cause, using an entire religious community as a scapegoat is not constructive.

The Muslim religion isn't responsible for genocide or other human rights violations in Sudan, even if it is the faith of the perpetrators. In addition, every Muslim doesn't support "terrorism" or encourage "jihad" and to think so is both ignorant and rude.

Justified or not, it's something others may not be aware of when they sport "Save Darfur" gear. Since 2003, over 300,000 civilians have been slaughtered and over 2 million displaced. This should be the focus of this movement, not placing blame on the whole Muslim community. Doing so will only lead to separation and encourage further conflict.

Anthony Toney is a senior political science major.