Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 180, the Darfur Divestment and Accountability Act.  This measure supports state, city, and university efforts to divest funds from, or restrict investments in, companies that conduct business operations in Sudan.  H.R. 180 works toward a goal of ending a travesty that has resonated with people all over the world.

My home state of Rhode Island has been active on this tragic issue for many years, with Providence becoming the first US city to divest from companies tied to the Sudanese government in 2006.  Just this past month, Rhode Island passed Sudan divestment into law.  These actions would not have been possible without our very active student population, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their persistent advocacy.

Like my constituents, I am deeply concerned over the ongoing violence and humanitarian disaster in the Darfur region.  It is truly a tragedy that we have not learned from our mistakes in the past regarding genocide, but it is not too late to change the situation in Sudan.  It is our duty to end this human suffering, and as a member of the Sudan Caucus, I will continue to work with my colleagues to stop this conflict and promote peace in Sudan.  Passing H.R. 180 is an important and  necessary step for Congress to take as we work to achieve this goal.

Thank you, Madam Speaker.