Advocacy for the Congolese Community: Raising Awareness at NYS Capitol

On February 25th, the Congolese community in Albany convened at the NYS Capitol to advocate for awareness regarding the conflict in the DRC, where rebel groups exploit natural resources, leading to immense suffering. Led by Diane Mbombo-Tite, the initiative emphasizes the ethical access to minerals essential for electronics and highlights the plight of women in the DRC. An upcoming event on March 8th will focus on gender-based violence and has invited local officials to participate.

On February 25th, advocates and activists gathered at the New York State Capitol to promote awareness of the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Among the participants was the Congolese community from Albany, who raised their voices and held signs to highlight their plight. This event was organized by Diane Mbombo-Tite, the President of the Congolese Association of Albany, who is also an asylum seeker previously profiled by CBS6.

Diane Mbombo-Tite emphasized the role of rebel groups, particularly M23, in the conflict, stating, “There are rebel groups, and the main one is called M23, who are seizing big cities. The source of the conflict is natural resources.” She pointed out that resources like cobalt and coltan, essential for electronic devices, have fueled the violence. She advocates for finding ethical ways to access these minerals instead of perpetuating the violence that has claimed over 20 million lives.

Mbombo-Tite and her community members believe it is crucial to raise awareness now, as many have family members still living in the DRC. They illustrate the broader immigrant experience and highlight the importance of advocacy after assimilating into American society. Jean-Pierre Munsi, an American citizen for 30 years who grew up in Congo, remarked on the dire circumstances compelling many to leave their countries, emphasizing that “there is really no life” given the current conditions.

The Congolese Association of Albany also announced an upcoming event on March 8th, International Women’s Day, at the Blake Annex. This event aims to shed light on gender-based violence and the dangers women face in the DRC. Mbombo-Tite stated, “We choose that date because we wanted also to raise awareness about women’s condition in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Women’s bodies are turned into a battlefield.” They have extended invitations to dignitaries, including Democratic Congressman Paul Tonko, to join them in their advocacy efforts.

The advocacy day at the New York State Capitol, organized by the Congolese Association of Albany, aimed to highlight the severe impact of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. With a focus on the exploitation of natural resources and its correlation to violence, the community seeks to amplify their message about the importance of ethical mineral sourcing. Additionally, their upcoming event on International Women’s Day underscores the grave issues of gender-based violence in the region, affirming the need for international awareness and support.

Original Source: cbs6albany.com