Resolve

In June we had the privilege of hosting Father Benoit Kinalegu and Sister Angelique Namaika, two Congolese civil society leaders who have been heroes in the effort against the LRA, as they travelled to the US and Europe to advocate on behalf of their communities. We first learned of Fr. Benoit’s work as far back as September of 2008, when he raised the alarm on the first attacks the LRA carried out in the Congo while peace negotiations with LRA leaders continued.This week, we were thrilled to hear that our partners at Human Rights Watch will be awarding Father Benoit the 2012 Alison Des Forges Award for Extraordinary Activism.

The Alison Des Forge Award acknowledges those who have dedicated their lives to ending human rights abuses and atrocities. Father Benoit is being acknowledged for his work on the Early Warning Radio Network and his work urging the international community to take action to bring an end to LRA violence. The other award recipient, Salah Marghani, is an activist and lawyer working to expose human rights abuses in Libya.

Father Benoit is a true hero and we are honored to call him a friend. His work has led the way in protecting civilians in LRA-affected areas and his life and dedication to peace inspire and challenge us all as activists.

Congratulations, Father Benoit!