|
|||
|
Robert Burns, the great Scottish poet, was born into and lived throughout his life in impoverished circumstances but came to be known world-wide as the Poet of Humanity. In one of his greatest poems written at the height of his fame towards the end of the 18th Century he looked forward to the day when "we shall brothers be." Had he been writing today, he would have certainly said "brothers and sisters." We are still far short of the utopian world Burns had in mind, but there are many people, if a minority, and humanitarian organizations that are striving to achieve what this great bard had in mind. Please check these organizations and make a donation to one or more if you can: Action Aid is "an international development agency whose aim is to fight poverty worldwide. Formed in 1972, for over 30 years we have been growing and expanding to where we are today - helping over 13 million of the world's poorest and most disadvantaged people in 42 countries worldwide. In all of our country programmes we work with local partners to make the most of their knowledge and experience." The Center for Victims of Torture "works locally, nationally and internationally to heal the wounds of torture on individuals, their families and their communities and to stop torture worldwide." Doctors Without Borders / Médecins Sans Frontières Grassroots International promotes global justice through partnerships with social change organizations. We work to advance political, economic and social rights and support development alternatives through grantmaking, education and advocacy. International Campaign to Ban Landmines Mercy Ships, a global charity, has operated a growing fleet of hospital ships in developing nations since 1978. Mercy Ships brings hope and healing to the poor, mobilizing people and resources worldwide. Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) promotes health by protecting human rights. We believe that human rights are essential preconditions for the health and well-being of all people. Relief Web serves the information needs of the international relief community. This site also has links to other important humanitarian organizations. MotherSpeak fosters cultural awareness and understanding by sharing stories. We believe that dialog -- talking and listening -- with others enriches all of our lives and reduces suspicion, prejudice, and negative assumptions. See also Human Rights and the article Iraqi Catastrophe on ZNet. |
"In the
struggle between the oppressed and the oppressors, those who are neutral
side with the oppressors."
|
||