[To Do] Call your Senators today to protect children from cluster munitions!

Posted by Martin Rendón
UNICEF USA
November 5, 2007

If you've read our advocacy alert on cluster munitions, you know that unexploded cluster munitions pose a major risk for children.

That's why the U.S. Fund for UNICEF supports S. 594, the Cluster Munitions Civilian Protection Act. This legislation would prevent the United States from using or exporting cluster munitions with a failure rate of more than one percent, and would ensure that U.S. cluster munitions will only be used against clearly defined military targets—not in civilian areas.

Unfortunately, at present S. 594 only has 12 cosponsors. That's not enough to show the bipartisan commitment needed for the Senate to vote on this legislation.

Today is the Global Day of Action on Cluster Munitions and we're participating in a national call-in day in support of S. 594. Please join us and let your Senators know that Americans care about the use of these inhumane weapons. It's easy:

Call the toll-free number (800-352-1897) during regular business hours (Eastern time!), to connect to the Capitol Switchboard.

Ask for one of your Senator's offices: "May I speak with Senator ___'s office?"

When connected, say:

My name is ______, and I live in [CITY, STATE]. Thanks for taking my call.

I'm calling to ask Senator _______ to cosponsor S. 594, the Cluster Munitions Civilian Protection Act. This is important to me, to help protect children around the world. Please let me know if the Senator will cosponsor this legislation.

Thank you!

Then repeat the process for your other Senator.

That's it! Hearing from constituents is very important for our federal legislators – your call today can help protect children from cluster munitions.

Please use the comments to let us know who you've called and how it goes.