Actress Maria Bello Honored By Save Darfur Coalition

November 27, 2009 10:55 a.m. EST

Washington, D.C. (CNS) - Actress Maria Bello is being honored by the Save Darfur Coalition as part of an initiative in conjunction with the internationally-observed 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence.

Bello has helped raise awareness about the ongoing genocide and gender-based violence in Darfur and Sudan. Bello has teamed up with Niemat Ahmadi, the Save Darfur Coalition's Darfuri Liaison Officer, to bring attention to the violence against women in a number of venues, including CNN.

"Maria Bello has used her celebrity to help the women in Darfur and throughout Sudan," said Niemat Ahmadi a genocide survivor and liaison to the Darfuri diaspora community at the Save Darfur Coalition. "Maria has greatly amplified the courageous voices of victims of sexual violence in Darfur, and is a leader in pressing for the end of sexual violence."

During the 16 days, the coalition's campaign will honor a leader in the fight to empower, protect and uplift women in Sudan and will offer a corresponding action for activists. Those honored include groups and individuals who are fighting to end sexual violence in Darfur and helping to educate their communities about the ongoing suffering in Sudan. The movement is observed on November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) and on December 10 (International Human Rights Day).

The Save Darfur Coalition and activists observe the 3rd day of the campaign by lighting a candle in honor of the victims. Advocates can light their own candle or help contribute to the cause by purchasing a candle from Connection Candle, a line of candles that features aromas from a collection of ingredients found in Sudan and inspired by Darfur's daily life and celebrations. The proceeds will benefit the Save Darfur Coalition.