PROVIDENCE – Gov. Donald L. Carcieri signed legislation today that limits the state’s investments in the country of Sudan, along with companies that provide supplies and services to the nation.
The bill cuts off state money to Sudan, which has been prosecuting a civil war for years that has resulted in the deaths of 400,000 people and created more than 2 million refugees. By passing the legislation, Rhode Island becomes the 19th state to divest from the country in hopes of pressuring the government to end their genocidal practices.
“We are joining the international community’s ongoing efforts to end this brutal campaign. We are sending a strong message to the Sudanese government,” Carcieri said in a statement. “By putting this legislation on the books, we’re showing the world that we care deeply about the plight of the Sudanese people.”
While the state’s investment in Sudan is not significant, Carcieri said the move represents the state’s stand against injustice. Also, when Rhode Island’s funds are coupled with those already divested by other states and institutions throughout the world, the money does become significant, he said.
