Rockbites: WITNESS takes steps to monitor American bigotry

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WITNESS takes steps to monitor American bigotry
18 September 2001

(As a human rights oriented Web site—we’re here to raise funds for human rights as well as to expose cutting edge pop—Rockbites occasionally brings you non-music-related stories. Here’s one.)

Just as the heroism and cooperation of thousands of rescue workers and volunteers helps lift the spirits of Americans following last week’s unprecedented terrorist acts, and as the country’s leaders develop a reasoned response, isolated bigots in America remind us, through their 'lynch ’em' mentality and behavior, that the evil that gives rise to terrorism walks among us as well. Here’s a note from Peter Gabriel’s human rights activist organization WITNESS on the issue.

“Today, WITNESS reopened its offices in downtown Manhattan. We were closed for a week due to the tragic destruction of the World Trade Centers nearby. We want to take this opportunity to express our sorrow and share our condolences with all those who have been affected by the devastation of the past week.
“We return to work more committed than ever to doing what needs to be done to address human rights violations as the conflict escalates. We will be watching closely to see how we may support those facing unjust retaliatory action, including members of the Muslim immigrant community and others vulnerable inside the United States. Our editing facility is currently being used to transfer videotapes shot by WITNESS colleagues, producers Tia Lessin and Mark Landsman, documenting the reaction of Muslim community in Brooklyn to the attack and their concerns about a backlash. Excerpts of the interviews [aired Monday night] in the United States on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered. We will also be working to address violations and increased risks facing overseas partners and colleagues during this global crisis.” | Witness | | top of page |

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