MCC action alert

Tell Congress to ban cluster bombs

February 09, 2010

Subject:

Dear Senator,

I am writing to urge your support for the Cluster Munitions Civilian Protection Act (S. 416), a bill that prohibits the use of unreliable cluster bombs by the United States in civilian areas.

Cluster bombs are indiscriminate weapons, and have injured and killed thousands of innocent civilians in more than 25 countries. Cluster bombs often miss their target, and significant numbers of cluster bombs fail to function as designed. Those that fail to explode on impact often maim or kill villagers who are going about their daily activities long after hostilities are past. Through more than 40 years of use, over 90% of known cluster bomb casualties are civilians. In addition, cluster munitions greatly increase the cost of constructing irrigation systems, schools, wells, clinics and other projects vital to the health and well-being of communities.

S 416 provides us with an extraordinary opportunity to stand with the world community. In December of 2008, 94 countries gathered in Oslo, Norway and signed a treaty to create a comprehensive ban on the production, transfer, stockpiling and use of cluster munitions. Signatories include our major European allies as well as many of the countries impacted by the use of cluster munitions. S 416 is a significant step on the path to joining our allies to end the suffering caused by these indiscriminate weapons.

S 416 enhances our own security. When U.S. cluster bombs injure and kill civilians long after wars are over, they create resentment and anger among people who might otherwise become our friends. The use of cluster munitions contributes to an atmosphere where terrorism can take root and grow.

In summary, your support of the Cluster Munitions Protection Act (S 416) contributes to human security and development worldwide, improves relationships with our allies, enhances our own security, and allows us to call other military powers such as China, Russia, India, Pakistan and Israel to stop using these indiscriminate weapons.

Sincerely,

We will add your signature from the information you provide.

First Name*

Last Name*

Email*

Street*

Street 2

City*

State/Province*

Zip/Postal Code*

Send an Email

Add me to the following list(s):
Militarism

MCC action alert

Tell Congress to ban cluster bombs

About MCC Washington