Subject: HEADS UP!
Date: Mon, 28 Feb 2000 15:39:37 -0500
From: scoxe
Organization: Bonobo Conservation Initiative
To: Dr. Susan Block
Dear Bonobo Faithful and friends,
We are launching bonobo.org
asap --and with it, the Bonobo Initiative, a world-wide call to action
to do what is necessary to save these apes from imminent extinction. Here's
the message: Humankind's closest relative is being slaughtered for meat. Trapped
in a war zone, bonobos are teetering on the edge, with no protection and no
inclusive plans for such in the future. No one knows how many bonobos survive;
frightening estimates range as low as 5,000--and the population is definitely
decreasing. Not only that, but most people don't even know that bonobos exist!
These amazing primates, who are so much like us, remain shrouded in mystery.
If the status quo continues, the wild bonobo population could be wiped out in
a few short years.
These peaceful primates are victims of war. Hungry soldiers and poachers with
guns are infiltrating what remains of bonobo territory--and more and more bonobos
are being killed. Hunting for the commercial bushmeat trade is on the rise,
because there is no other domestic meat available, and smoked bushmeat is one
of the few commodities that can make it to market and command a high price.
Traditional taboos, which once protected bonobos, are breaking down in the face
of economic and social crisis.
The infrastructure of the "Democratic Republic of Congo" is dessimated. Teachers
have not been paid in years. Even most missionaries have fled. Yet, in terms
of natural resources, biodiversity, and the strength of human spirit, the Congo
is one of the richest countries on the planet. And despite great difficulties,
the peace process is moving ahead.
The worst hell on earth is also the best hope.
Congo has the chance to combine the knowledge of its people with contemporary
wisdom to preserve its cultural heritage, develop sustainably, and prosper.
It is possible to protect the remaining bonobo population--and it is possible
for the Congo to achieve peace and economic stability. Ultimately, it is the
people of Congo who will decide if bonobos live or die. It must be in their
best interest now to protect bonobos--and the biodiversity of the Congo Basin.
The Congo needs help to resurrect from the wreckage of greed and abuse. This
vast, beautiful country needs help to educate and uplift her people--and build
an enlightened future.
Now, what can we do? How can we mobilize our talents and resources to make a
difference? It will take unified efforts and millions of dollars to do what
needs to be done. I am writing to ask for your help. As an organization, the
Bonobo Conservation Initiative has developed an agenda, we have raised some
funds and are on the way to procuring more, and we are connecting a powerful
international network of people and organizations to work together for the bonobo
cause. Along with bonobo.org,
we are moving ahead with plans for a PR campaign, Bonobo Peace Concert, reconnaissance
to Kinshasa, radio in DRC, indigenous folklore projects, biodiversity learning
center, and more. We are seeking partnerships and will be launching on-line
discussions to bring people together on various efforts. Now, it's time to get
the show on the road. We need money and volunteers.
For starters, I ask each of you to please send me the names of at least FIVE
individuals or organizations we can solicit for funding. While you're at it,
if you have connections with the music industry or celebrities, or know of a
good webmaster, please bring 'em on. Let's rock and roll!
Sally Sally Jewell Coxe
Bonobo Conservation Initiative
Tel: 202-332-1014 Fax: 202-234-3066 Cell: 202-255-2482
www.blockbonobofoundation.org www.drsusanblock.com www.eroticsgallery.com