In a demonstration of strong bipartisan leadership, Representatives Ann Wagner (R-MO), Joe Crowley (D-NY), and their colleagues introduced the Elie Wiesel Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act (H.R.3030) in the House of Representatives on June 22.
Support the Elie Wiesel Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act
Devastating violence has resulted in unprecedented numbers of displaced persons and put over 20 million at risk of famine. Recognizing the consequences of the failure to prevent conflict and atrocities, the bill prioritizes early efforts to avert violence as the most effective means to save lives, save taxpayer dollars, and advance global and national security.
This Sunday, July 2, will mark one year since the passing of Nobel Laureate and genocide prevention advocate Elie Wiesel after whom the bill is named. Wiesel talked about the importance of bearing witness to the Holocaust, and living up to the world’s commitment to “never again.” The Elie Wiesel Act is one important step toward making prevention a priority, and ensuring the U.S. government has the right structures, tools and resources to better prevent atrocities.
The House bill mirrors the Senate version being led by Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD), Todd Young (R-IN) and Thom Tillis (R-NC) that was introduced on May 17.
The bills establish a Mass Atrocities Task Force, require training for Foreign Service Officers in violent conflict and atrocities prevention, require reporting from both the Department of State and Director for National Intelligence, and establish the Complex Crises Fund.
More information can be found at www.fcnl.org/prevention.
