World Malaria Weekend for the DC Faiths Act Fellows!

World Malaria Day was held internationally on April 25th, 2010. The DC Faiths Act Fellows decided to join forces-Avi, Sarah, Ben and Randa-and have a series of events titled "World Malaria Weekend." The goal was to involve all the partners and dedicated volunteers we've met and worked with throughout the year.

The weekend consisted of a series of events, starting with a Washington National's baseball game on Saturday dedicated to spreading awareness about malaria eradication through a visit from former American Idol celebrity Elliot Yamin! On Saturday night, Mozzy the Mosquito flitted around college and high school students bent on fighting malaria.  And, as the drumming from the Malian Grio Ensemble built in momentum and the bed nets hung, we were reminded (and others introduced) to the idea that we have the tools and the energy to end malaria. 

On Sunday, 30 people gathered to celebrate the culture and diversity of Africa.  We ate delicious Ethiopian food and listened to live drumming from a DC-based Malian trio. At one point, we even formed a dance circle and moved to the rhythm of the kongas (a traditional African drum).

It was a time to focus on the beauty that Africa offers.  There were tables set up around the room with African hand-crafts and delicious Fair Trade coffee from Uganda.  But more than a celebration, it was also a time to act; there was a station where participants could call their congressmen and ask them to support funding for the Presidential Malaria Initiative.  This was a reminder that we have the resources and tools to combat malaria, but now, we need to muster political will. 

We also heard from inspirational speakers who argued that Africa’s beauty and diversity is compromised by the malaria pandemic, a tragedy that can no longer go unnoticed.  “As people of faith, we have a moral imperative to act,” said Kevin Barrow, a local D.C. activist.  Adrianna Logalbo, director of Nothing But Nets, spoke about the work being done to distribute bed nets and the huge strides that have been made in the last decade.  We were also inspired by the story of Ariana, a high school student who has been involved in the Interfaith Youth Action Group.  Nothing short of a malaria activist, Ariana is mobilizing her community to take action against this deadly disease.  Her hopeful words were a testament that young people are stepping up, renouncing injustice and fighting for change.

Thanks to everyone involved for making this a great success!