Genocide has evolved over time since the Holocaust. But the variables going into genocide have remained the same: targeting people on the basis of their identity. The biggest symbol of hope on the horizon regarding efforts to counter genocide is the growing people's movement to stop it from happening. Prendergast will discuss about how social movements are the force that has changed the course of history in the past in response to terrible atrocities, and will do so again with regard to genocide.

John Prendergast is a human rights activist and New York Times best-selling author who has focused on peace in Africa for over thirty years. He is the Founding Director of the Enough Project, an initiative to end genocide and crimes against humanity. He is also the Co-Founder of The Sentry, a new investigative initiative focused on dismantling the networks financing conflict and atrocities. John has worked for the Clinton White House, the State Department, two members of Congress, the National Intelligence Council, UNICEF, Human Rights Watch, the International Crisis Group, and the U.S. Institute of Peace. He was featured on a segment of Sixty Minutes, http://www.cbsnews.com/news/fighting-south-sudan-famine/, CBS News, on March 19! He has been a Big Brother for over 25 years, as well as a youth counselor and a basketball coach.
Light refreshments will be served.
Ford Institute Speaker Series
www.fordinstitute.pitt.edu or 412-648-7434
Co-sponsored by University Center for International Studies: African Studies Program & Global Studies Center