October 2008
Albinism is a rare genetic disorder which results in a lack of pigmentation in the hair, skin, and eyes.
It's estimated that about one in every 20,000 people worldwide have albinism, but the numbers are much higher in parts of Africa, such as Tanzania.
People will albinism are often legally blind and are also often affected by skin conditions, the worst being skin cancer due to sun exposure.
But people with albinism who live in Tanzania have something truly horrific to deal with—witchdoctors. It's not clear why, but in recent years the call for body parts from people with albinism has been on the rise in Tanzania. Witchdoctors use the body parts to create potions that are said to have the power to make men rich.
Yes, you read correctly, body parts. This of course means that if you have albinism and live in Tanzania you're marked to kill by gangs on the witchcraft black market. Anyone is a target—from grown men to small infants—all that's required is that you carry the special genes that make your skin fairer than your peers.
And the killings are now spreading to nearby Burundi and the Congo.
What Can I Do to Help?
You can learn more about albinism and the killings in Tanzania at UnderTheSameSun.com. The website links to video and newspaper stories about the killings.
The organization is currently planning a trip to Tanzania on October 19, 2008. They will discuss this issue with the Tanzanian government and they want to bring along a petition signed by people from all around the world to show that we are aware of what's going on in the country and that the international community will support the government in fighting these killings.
Visit their website to find out how you can help or to donate to their cause.