On February 25, the Congolese community in Albany gathered at the NYS Capitol to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, focusing on issues of violence, resource exploitation, and immigration challenges. The event, led by Diane Mbombo-Tite, aimed to foster discussion on ethical resource management. They will also host an International Women’s Day event to highlight women’s experiences in the DRC.
On February 25th, advocates, including members from the Congolese community, gathered at the New York State Capitol to draw attention to the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This event marked the first advocacy day organized by the Congolese Association of Albany, led by Diane Mbombo-Tite, an asylum seeker. She expressed concerns regarding rebel groups, notably M23, which are destabilizing regions to gain access to valuable natural resources such as cobalt and coltan, essential in electronic device production.
Mbombo-Tite highlighted the tragic impact of this conflict, stating, “We’re talking about civilians who are fleeing their village because they are traumatized. They are living in fear.” The advocacy group aims to promote discussion on ethical access to minerals without the harms of violence and destruction, urging for a humanitarian approach amid the crises.
Furthermore, Jean-Pierre Munsi, an American citizen originally from the Congo, emphasized the importance of speaking out against the circumstances driving immigration. He noted, “If there were peace, economic development, into the country where they’re coming from, they weren’t going to be coming like that.” Munsi articulated the challenges faced by immigrants who, despite fleeing violence, encounter hostility in their new homes.
The Congolese Association of Albany is also organizing an International Women’s Day event on March 8th, intending to raise awareness about the dire conditions women face in the DRC, specifically regarding gender-based violence. Mbombo-Tite stated, “It’s not safe to be a woman in DR Congo. So the world needs to know.” They have invited officials, such as Congressman Paul Tonko, hoping to widen the discourse on these issues.
The gathering at the NYS Capitol by the Congolese community served to illuminate the pressing issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, emphasizing the ongoing conflict’s impact on civilians and the need for international awareness. Advocates like Diane Mbombo-Tite and Jean-Pierre Munsi exemplify the struggles faced by those affected by violence and displacement, reiterating the importance of ethical resource management and support for vulnerable populations. Their upcoming International Women’s Day event further underscores the urgent need to address gender-based violence and advocate for change.
Original Source: cbs6albany.com
