Damanga Praises Spielberg for Standing up for Darfur

February 13, 2008

        The Damanga Coalition for Freedom and Democracy commends the decision of film director and producer Steven Spielberg to renounce his position as an artistic advisor for the Beijing Olympic Games in August. Spielberg is ending his involvement with the Beijing Games to portray his dissatisfaction over China’s relations with Sudan. The Beijing Games have been called “Genocide Games” to refer to the ongoing genocide in Darfur, Sudan. While China remains the principal purchaser of Sudanese oil and therefore funds the Sudanese army, many claim that China is adding to the crisis in Darfur. Additionally, as a member of the UN Security Council, China should be taking stronger action against the Sudanese government and its conflict with Darfur. Many groups have discussed boycotting the Beijing Olympics to prove to China that it must pressure Sudan to stop the genocide. Spielberg’s split from the 2008 Olympics portrays this attitude and encourages others to take similar action. The Damanga Coalition for Freedom and Democracy praise Spielberg for his commitment to human rights.