There are many ways that college students can help raise awareness and advocate the signing of the Landmine Treaty. Don't forget - there are 1,400 NGO's working together to promote this treaty. This is a worldwide effort. The United States has considered signing this treaty for almost a decade. With enough pressure from the public, it will. The results of the treaty thus far have been tremendous. Out of 192 countries in the world, 152 have signed the treaty. We are close to ending the proliferation of mines. We as college students have the power to show that a new generation cares about this important humanitarian issue.
Here are simple yet important steps to help the grassroots effort:1) Look up your Representatives and Senators in Washington DC. These are the individuals with the power to influence international treaties.
2) Write your representative a letter that states your support for the Landmine Treaty. Here is an ideal outline for an advocacy letter.
3) Email us at info@minefreeworld.com to get more information on staying informed.
4) Tell your friends in your theme house/sorority/fraternity/sports team about this website and about the dangers of landmine's. Remember that most college students know little about this important topic. Remind them that this is a humanitarian issue, not a Democratic or Republican issue.
5) Sign the Youth Against War Treaty!
6) Sign the People's Treaty
Get as many people you know to sign these treaties. It takes no more than one minute. You will not be placed on any email lists. You will only get one confirmation email saying that you signed the treaty. Its a great way to participate without moving an inch.
Let me know your thoughts about the website, the interest group, and any other comments or questions you may have. If you like, I will send you up-to-date information about State Party meetings around the world, the US position on landmine's, sample advocacy letters, and other materials to help you understand the issues and encourage our government to be a world leader and accede to the treaty.