On Saturday, October 24th we hosted our first Congo Awareness House Party. Jackie offered her home as our location. When I arrived, a lovely display of food and goodies greeted me. I rode over with Pat, and we lugged in extra chairs, as well as laptops and a projector—more on that to come later. Several of Jackie’s friends were in attendance. The night started with introductions, and then Kelley gave a great five minute overview. We then showed thirty minutes of The Greatest Silence. This film is what got me involved with Congo issues. I saw most of it about six months ago. Seeing a section of it again is still, if not more powerful, since I have a slightly better idea of the Congo issues and politics—though I must admit, I am still confused as to all the militias and their motivations—other than resources. The images of the film are harrowing. That these atrocities can go on now and by fellow humans is beyond sad. It is heartbreaking. After the film, Samba planned to show her marvelous PowerPoint which would have offered background history and helped people to understand some of the complexities. Well, don’t ask me what happened (actually I do know now) but when we went to hock her PC back up to the projector—technical difficulties folks. I said a few prayers and a few curses too (I must admit) under my breath, still to no avail. So what Samba did was talk about the Congo, her life, her feelings, her hopes, her dreams. The room was silent. Riveted by her words and passion. I could see a woman who, out of darkness was shining a strong and powerful light. She reminded me of why I wanted to be involved with CAN. She makes me think what is possible. At the end, we passed around questionnaires and the women new to the Congo crisis talked about their feelings. Some very well may work with CAN to help make a difference; others may follow what we are doing and help when they can. Either way, Saturday night was the start of a wonderful new stage for Congo Action Now—the dissemination of information, the call to action. Our next meeting is November 15, 2009 at 3PM.
Coleen T. Houlihan
Coleen T. Houlihan