Letter to Representative

Dear Dianne Feinstein,
My name is Chyna Marquez and I am a student at High Tech High International. I am writing this letter to bring attention to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo over a mineral called Columbite-Tantalite, also known as Coltan. As you may be aware, this mineral is a key ingredient in the development of electronic boards in almost every digital component produced today.

As our the demands for cell phones, laptops, video games and other electronic devices has increased the demand for this mineral has also increased. Even though we need Coltan for these electronic devices we should be purchasing this mineral from another country that produces the ingredient or even exploring alternatives. As a result of us purchasing Coltan from the Democratic Republic of Congo we are helping finance the rebels in the eastern Congo who commit horrible atrocities to those living in the villages they invade. Such as brutally maiming, killing, raping and enslaving the civilians. The men and young boys in these villages are forced to mine, in horrible working conditions, for Coltan.

There are two different bills that have been introduced to Congress, but so far nothing has happened. The first bill, Bill S. 3058 was introduced to the finance committee in 2008 and has sat in congress since then, and the second bill, the Conflict Minerals Trade Act of 2009 is in the senate now and demands accountability from companies who’s products contain these minerals. Its important that something be done about the mismanagement of Coltan because even though there is not a direct affect on us individually, as a country, we would be helping the lives of thousand of people in the eastern Congo.

As a country, we should all be aware and know that by purchasing these electronic devices we are helping fund a war that is killing thousands of people. We should be trying to put an end to these atrocities instead of helping fund them. While this cause is very important to me, your voice and your help would be very influential to many more people. With your help, this bill could get more publicity and attention in congress and among the public. Please thoughtfully consider putting action to these thoughts and begin making a difference in the Congo.

 

Sincerely, 
 


Chyna Marquez
2855 Farragut Road
San Diego, CA 92106-6025