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AWM/RAWA Light a Candle of Hope April 20 - 27, 2002 THE VIGIL PROJECT

We invite you to participate in the candlelight vigil for the earthquake victims to create an inextricable bond with them – the Afghan people, who have suffered severe drought, fundamentalism, twenty years of war and occupation, and most recently, devastating bombing.

The simplest way to hold a vigil is to gather together a group, in a public or private place, and light candles. We ask that each vigil participant donate at least one dollar to remember these women, suffering so much. You may wish to hold your vigil at your work place, in your home, at a restaurant, in a park, or a place of worship. Light candles, express your feelings through music, art or poetry, and send us your thoughts and messages for the innocent victims of this terrible tragedy.

Please try to publicize your event! Contact your local newspapers, radio and TV stations, and let them know that you are holding a vigil. A sample press release is included in the kit. Email friends, family, coworkers, and members of organizations you belong to, and ask them to also support this candlelight vigil. We will select several messages and translate them for the earthquake victims, bringing them hope and healing so they know they are not alone in their suffering.

The Vigil Community

Spread the light across the world! By holding a vigil you will be joining a worldwide community of caring people. Know that your vigil will become part of the world’s vigil for the people of Afghanistan. One drop at a time, this ocean of love and humanity will reach our fellow beings in Afghanistan.

Here are some resources for celebrating the vigil:

• The Afghan Women's Mission (AWM) hosts a web site where people come together to share their experience in holding a vigil. Click on to http://www.afghanwomensmission.org to join our community. We welcome you to our virtual home!
• We also host a vigil guest book for thoughts and messages you may have for Afghan earthquake victims and for other vigil members around the world.
• AWM will light its virtual flame on the website on April 20th. We will keep the vigil for one week till April 27th.Please download this graphic and post it to your own web sites.
• T-shirts commemorating the vigil will be available online – wear them at your vigil, or afterwards to keep the memory of this special community alive.
• Donate at least $20 and we will send a Mother's Day card explaining your thoughtful donation to honor your mother.