DARFUR >> HERE'S HOW VIRGINIA CAN HELP

Using divestment to help Darfur

Date published: 1/30/2007

Divestment option

AMERICANS HAVE WATCHED in frustration the tragedy unfolding in Darfur. Since 2003, at least 400,000 people have been killed and over 2.5 million displaced. Women have been raped and children orphaned under the reign of terror imposed by the Sudanese government-supported Janjaweed militia. Despite huffing and puffing from the U.N. and a diagnosis of "genocide" from the Bush administration, diplomatic measures have failed.

Now a movement to hit the recalcitrant Sudanese government where it hurts--in its coffers--is gathering steam. Colleges, universities, and at least six states have decided to divest from companies trading with Sudan. Virginia can join in. Senate Bill 1331 would require the Virginia Retirement System to divest itself of investments in eight foreign companies that do substantial business in Sudan. These funds represent only 0.2 percent of the VRS portfolio and there is a bail-out provision.

Shifting investments is something Virginia can do to help the suffering Darfurians. Senate Bill 1331 deserves a solid hearing--and an "aye" vote.

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Date published: 1/30/2007