The White House announced on February 10, 2011 that U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan Scott Gration has been nominated to become the new U.S. Ambassador to Kenya. 

The transition of Gration from Sudan to Kenya will leave the important role the special envoy plays in working to create peace and justice in all of Sudan vacant. There are reports of a dramatic rise in violence and lack of protection for civilians in Darfur. As well as months of  unfinished  high level diplomacy talks, engagement and work remaining in South Sudan to ensure a democratic, secure, and peaceful transition for the world's newest nation. A new U.S Special Envoy is immediately needed to help put Sudan back on the road towards peace. 

This petition urges for:

1. President Obama to appoint a new U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan, with seasoned diplomatic experience in conflict prevention/resolution, African affairs, and Sudan

2. The new U.S. Special Envoy to enforce the abandoned U.S. Sudan policy of a balanced approach regarding pressures and incentives

3. The new U.S Special Envoy should lead international efforts to support the Doha Peace process, reinvigorate the peace process in a neutral location, encourage all the parties to negotiate in good faith and make sure a cessation of hostilities agreement is signed and implemented

4. The U.S along with the international community to renew and strengthen the mandate for UNAMID

5. The international community led by the United States to push for the Government of Sudan to provide unimpeded access for peacekeepers and humanitarian workers to areas where fighting has taken place and where internally displaced persons have fled

Spread the word, post to Facebook/Twitter, and help speak out for those in Sudan who should no longer be oppressed.