1)Funding for Darfur peacekeepers: On December 17, the House Committee on Rules approved an omnibus spending bill for fiscal year 2008 that funds the United States' commitment to the joint United Nations-African Union peacekeeping force through at least November 1, 2008. It won't be a done deal until Congress passes and the president signs the final version, but it's not too early to say that getting this level of support during this tough period is a real victory.

2) Darfur divestment: On December 12, the Senate passed the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act (SADA) by unanimous consent. On December 18, the House voted unanimously in favor of the bill and it will now head to the president's desk for his signature.

While these steps are important strides for the people of Darfur, we must take one more step to ensure victory. We must persuade President Bush to sign the SADA bill. Phone calls are more effective, so if you can, please call the White House at 202-456-1414. You can also e-mail the president by clicking below.

CLICK HERE TO URGE PRESIDENT BUSH TO SIGN THE SADA BILL.

Grassroots pressure was instrumental to passing the funding for the Darfur peacekeepers as well as the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act.

The White House and Congress have been embroiled in difficult budget negotiations. Funding for almost all the programs under State and Foreign Operations (which includes funding for the peacekeeping force) was reduced from previously approved levels, with the EXCEPTION of funding for the Darfur peacekeeping force. Funding for peacekeeping increased 250 percent - thanks in large part to concerted grassroots pressure!

Despite overwhelming bipartisan support, SADA had to overcome a last-minute hold on the bill. Again, thanks to targeted efforts by Darfur activists, the hold was lifted, freeing the bill for passage by overwhelming consent of the Senate and House. Call the White House now at 202-456-1414 to ask President Bush to sign the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act.

Talking Points:

• Ask  President Bush to sign the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act (SADA) and ensure that it is fully implemented.

• Let the White House know that you are a UUSC human rights advocate concerned about the crisis in Darfur and you want the president to take action NOW. Keep up the Drumbeat for Darfur!

We're almost there - we can't stop now. Our efforts are making a difference! Please call the White House switchboard: 202-456-1414.

For more information please visit http://www.uusc.org/drumbeatfordarfur/index.html