Does the diamond trade help ordinary Africans?
In most cases, no. While the rulers and militia of many African countries
have reaped financial windfalls from diamonds, few economic
benefits have trickled down to the diamond diggers. This is especially true in
West Africa where hard labor often earns less than one dollar per day. Even in
countries such as Botswana, where economic benefit has been more widespread,
diamonds have caused great suffering for disenfranchised minorities like the
San Bushmen. This tribe has been displaced from their Ancestral land, and violently
harassed and tortured.
Why is this website coming out now?
The diamond industry has been
responding defensively in advance of the movie “Blood Diamond” starring
Leonardo DiCaprio, which comes out in prime holiday shopping
in December. A $15M marketing campaign has been launched
by the diamond industry to convince consumers that blood
diamonds aren’t
a problem.
This website aims
to tell the other side of the story.
How can I help? Consumers can make a difference with
their buying actions and their voice. Talk about blood diamond
issues, increase awareness, and make an informed purchasing
choice.
Hasn’t the Kimberley Process eliminated conflict
diamonds?
No, conflict diamonds continue to be a serious problem today.
The Kimberley Process does nothing to address human
rights violations such as state-sanctioned violence, horrific
labor conditions, and environmental destruction. These conflict
diamonds continue to enter the mainstream supply.
How can I learn more?
See the following resources for more information:
The following website is only affiliated with Diamonds for Africa, is in no way affiliated with The World Diamond Council or De Beers, and is a parody of the site www.diamondfacts.org.
Contact
us: info@realdiamondfacts.org