WASHINGTON - June 30 - Today, the Democratic Republic of Congo will observe its 50th year of independence from Belgian colonial rule. While celebrations will take place throughout the globe commemorating this golden anniversary, Africa Action will join in solidarity with the Congolese Diaspora and civil society groups from the continent to reflect on the successes and challenges for the Congo to achieve full independence. 

The event is scheduled to take place TODAY at the True Reformer Bldg's Lankford Auditorium in Washington, DC from 2:00 pm to 8:30 pm.

During the event Africa Action will highlight the hindrances to Congo’s continuing pursuit for peace and justice in the country.  One hundred and twenty years of resource exploitation, human rights abuses, and subsequent humanitarian conflict continues to devastate the Congolese people, making independence appear to be more and more of an illusion than a reality.  For more information on the Congo, visit Africa Action’s website here. 

For a full list of speakers and guests from the Congo, available for comments to the media, e-mail michael.stulman@africaaction.org or visit our website. 

Gerald LeMelle, Executive Director of Africa Action said today, “The Congo’s potential $24 trillion dollars worth of natural resources is just one example of what could be an engine of growth and development for the country, the African continent and the world, however, for these results to be achieved there must be a sustained peace and true determination of these resources by Congolese people.”

Event details:

What: This event will offer prescriptions to chart a way forward to a free and liberated Congo, and examine its potential role within the African continent as a whole.

Where: True Reformer Bldg's Lankford Auditorium
12th & U Street, NW
Washington, DC, USA

When: TODAY
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
2:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Who: Sponsored by Africa Action, Africa Faith & Justice Network, Congo Global Action, Friends of the Congo, TransAfrica Forum, IPS' Foreign Policy In Focus