Attention from Congress increases with introduction of landmark legislation

Just in case you missed the 43 other times I mentioned it, let me just say one more time: The LRA Disarmament and N. Uganda Recovery Act was introduced last week!!! This historic bill has not only excited people across the country who are passionate about seeing one of Africa's longest and most brutal conflicts brought to an end - it seems to be stirring some excitement on Capitol Hill as well!

Five key Members of Congress came together and released a statement about the legislation last week, decrying recent atrocities committed by the LRA and calling upon the US to do more to stop top LRA leaders. "The introduction of this bill demonstrates the growing consensus on the need for greater U.S. leadership to disarm top LRA leaders and permanently end this violence," said Rep. James McGovern (D-MA), Chairman of the House Human Rights Commission, in the statement.

And then we saw not one, not two, but three Members  take the time to speak out on the same issue.

First, Senator Russ Feingold (one of the original cosponsors of the bill) issued a statement to coincide with the introduction of the legislation in which he called upon his colleagues to support the bill and help achieve lasting peace.

Then, Congressman Ed Royce from California, one of the original bill cosponsors in the House, took to his blog to discuss the need to finally stop Joseph Kony.

Finally, Congressman Jerry Moran from Kansas delivered a speech on the floor of the House all about the crisis. Spurred by constituents in a Knock Knock meeting and through the Rescue, he brought this pressing issue to the attention of his colleagues - and even quoted a letter to the editor written by the student who organized the Knock Knock meeting! 

"In this time when the world does not look very kindly towards the United States, I believe we must show everyone that we are not driven solely by a need for power and influence—we do have a heart," said the speech (and the letter). Some important allies on Capitol Hill  took these words to heart this week,  and proved that the US Government does have a heart in the process.