GlobalShift

Become a Whistleblower for Peace in Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to the world’s deadliest war since World War II and chances are, you don’t know much about it. In fact, the relative obscurity of the ongoing violence that has caused 10 million deaths and led to millions displaced has become almost as dumbfounding as the conflict itself. The shocking nature of atrocities occurring in DR Congo make it occasionally newsworthy and the story has certainly landed in a few notable publications over the years. However, in spite of the press surrounding true stories so gruesome they nearly inspire incredulity, and even a visit from US secretary of State Hilary Clinton, the international community has failed to contribute a significant solution which brings an end to the problem. I use the understated term “problem” here to denote the highest incidence of sexual violence in the world today, widespread poverty and disease, and the ongoing kidnap and recruit of child soldiers.

The devastation playing out in DR Congo today is as complex as it is overwhelming and thus renders easy answers irrelevant. Though it may sound too generous, I’ll even go so far as to say that the inability of the international community to take decisive, conflict-abating action thus far is indeed rooted in more than just brazen indifference. Regardless, the obstacles to change in DR Congo haven’t stopped young activists at Falling Whistles from addressing the conflict at hand and blowing the whistle for peace.

When Sean Carosso set out to Africa in 2007 to help with a Tom’s Shoes drop, he never dreamed his journey would lead him to Congo where he discovered former child soldiers living in the most horrific conditions imaginable. You can read the story of what he found here. Upon Carosso’s return to the U.S., a friend handed him a whistle as a reminder of the plight of child soldiers who are often sent into conflict armed with little more than a whistle. Needless to say, Carosso never forgot and today Falling Whistles is making every effort to make it impossible for others to overlook the reality of the human rights abuses in Congo.

Carosso’s encounter with child soldiers in Congo led him to establish Falling Whistles, an advocacy effort working towards peace in Congo. In addition to raising awareness about the war in Congo, Falling Whistles supports the rehabilitation of 270 war affected children. Operated almost entirely by volunteers comprised of students and young activists, the Falling Whistles crew ultimately strives to bring about an end to the war. Falling Whistles serves as a hopeful reminder that individuals willing to stand against great injustice in the world can make a difference and ultimately, as time will tell, turn the tide.

What can you do? Become a whistleblower for peace—wear your protest around your neck. All proceeds from whistle sales go to rehabilitate child soldiers in Eastern Congo. For the truly determined activist, Falling Whistles also offers a hands on summer internship experience. Join the campaign for peace in Congo!

Want to learn more about Congo? The New York Times is a great source of stories, pictures, and video blogs related to Congo. For a recent story, click here. Or check out the Falling Whistles site to learn about the history of Congo and the current situtation.