IMF Acknowledges Emails’ Role in Liberia Debt Relief!
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As Steve Radelet reported here on the ONE Blog on Monday, after a 18 month delay, the IMF is finally moving ahead with debt relief for Liberia!
Yesterday, the director of the IMF’s External Relations Department issued a statement::
“We have received a large volume of emails on this topic, so this letter is being posted because it is impossible to respond to each message individually….Their strong support to the cause of debt relief contributed to the broad donor support that made this financing possible.”
Jubilee, DATA, the Center for Global Development, Foreign Policy In Focus, and U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops did incredible work keeping up the pressure, and ONE members sent tens of thousands of emails pushing the IMF for this action.
It’s not a bad day - when we get proof that our voices are being heard, and that our actions are truly making a difference for the poorest people in this world.
Read the full statement on the IMF site.
-Virginia Simmons
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The ONE Blog is a daily log of the anti-poverty movement. The site is operated by ONE staff, with frequent contributions from volunteers, members and partner organizations.
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November 16, 2007 at 11:57 am
Very cool…ONE is working…
November 16, 2007 at 12:00 pm
Thanks for show us that we can and are making a difference, getting to the heart of where they must listen and acknowledge us and our one voice. Much love to All. ~Nasya
November 16, 2007 at 12:00 pm
this is great news!! Go ONE!!
November 16, 2007 at 12:01 pm
ONE does work. It’s awesome to be heard in a political world where our voices usually seem so small
but ONE has proven time and time again that there is power in numbers. Let’s keep it up!
November 16, 2007 at 12:01 pm
It is touching and gratifying to help make a difference.
November 16, 2007 at 12:06 pm
This is awesome. The people can make a difference.
November 16, 2007 at 12:06 pm
Thanks to all the ONE members that wrote to the IMF calling for Liberia’s debt cancellation! We at Jubilee USA are grateful for all of your actions, which helped us to win progress that had been on hold for 18 months. Know that your work makes a difference. All the best, Neil Watkins, National Coordinator, Jubilee USA Network.
November 16, 2007 at 12:12 pm
I am happy that as individuals we can still make a difference in this wold.
Congratulations One Members!
November 16, 2007 at 12:18 pm
Fantastic! I am glad to know that my opinions count and are heard by the people who make the decisions. Let’s all keep up the good work.
November 16, 2007 at 12:19 pm
What a great feeling! Thank you ONE and Jubilee USA for all your hard work and for providing the information and access we need to get involved. Let’s keep going!
ONE ONE ONE!!!!
November 16, 2007 at 12:20 pm
It puts tears in my eyes knowing that collectively we were heard loud and clear. I know that one person cannot do it alone, but thanks to you at ONE we have all those singles which equals a whole nation. Now Liberia will grow and need less help.
To Liberia…….
Congratulations everyone JOB WELL DONE
November 16, 2007 at 12:21 pm
How cool is that — send an email & make a difference. Very encouraging.
November 16, 2007 at 12:25 pm
Wonderful news! Now how about debt relief for other 3rd world countries?
November 16, 2007 at 12:25 pm
May Liberia get a running start now - our thoughts will be with them.
November 16, 2007 at 12:29 pm
ROCK AND ROLL!!!!
November 16, 2007 at 12:32 pm
It’s wonderful to feel that we can make a difference. I appreciate the opportunity to become part of the larger humanity that ONE brings together to make needed changes in our world. Thank you ONE and ALL.
November 16, 2007 at 12:33 pm
How great is it that together as ONE voice we can make a difference in the world and together we can truly change people’s lives for the better. That’s awesome!!!
November 16, 2007 at 12:33 pm
Great job everyone!
November 16, 2007 at 12:34 pm
Projects like ONE and countless others are pushing reality in the faces of those who vote. We can make a difference with one vote, one project, one coin, one person at a time. This news is awesome!!!
November 16, 2007 at 12:49 pm
That is great news, but do we also send messages and put pressure on the elected officials of Liberia to not waste this critical opportunity? How does ONE handle this? It is just as important as the debt relief if real change is going to occur in that country for the poor.
November 16, 2007 at 12:56 pm
We clicked a few times on the keyboard, and now many lives on a distant continent will be bettered. That’s WAY beyond awesome!
November 16, 2007 at 1:06 pm
I feel privileged to be among this group of activists. If any group shows the promise of truly changing the world, it is the One Campaign. There can be no equality without economic equality, no stable economy without democratic decision making. We need to stop extending credit to tyrants who don’t have the best interests of their people and thier nation at heart. We need to stop lending money for projects that afford no economic advantage to the poorest of the poor. I hope that we will be able to turn the world upside down and at last begin using money to advance rather than enslave the third world, particularly in Africa.
November 16, 2007 at 1:15 pm
This is terrific news! Every year when I’m in Liberia I see first hand the struggles they face and this was an overwhelming obstacle in their recovery from so many years of war. They still face a hard road but at least now they have a decent chance at succeeding.
November 16, 2007 at 1:22 pm
ONE down….
November 16, 2007 at 1:23 pm
The work of ONE has obviously been effective. What I appreciate is the ability to help in some small way.The communications from Josh Peck and One facilitate the process of contacting the appropriate people to ask for the help on these important issues. There truly is strength in numbers…and ONE puts those numbers together to work! Thanksfor all you do, I ‘m glad to be a part of ONE.
November 16, 2007 at 1:26 pm
How de body? Today de body very well!
November 16, 2007 at 1:36 pm
I am so glad this has been passed. These are our brothers and sisters in Liberia, and we should do as we would want to be done to us if we were in this predicament. I think ONE did a great thing through reaching out to these people. It is causes like this that make me proud to be associated with the ONE campaign.
November 16, 2007 at 1:42 pm
I am proud of ONE and its members and leaders. I have been involved with other email/Internet initatives to make change. And to read this really is gratifying that we can make a difference. I am hopeful that our voices are heard in our own democratic system on many fronts through this medium.
November 16, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Hooray for our side; and in the long run hooray for all sides.
November 16, 2007 at 1:49 pm
i’glad it works
November 16, 2007 at 1:51 pm
*I’m STUNNED! I was very pleasantly surprised to hear that “we did it”. It’s amazing and awe inspiring to know that the little people, standing together, can make a difference. Thanks One Members
November 16, 2007 at 1:52 pm
Way to go… proof we can do it ONE at a time…
November 16, 2007 at 2:03 pm
Hopefully a day will come when injustices and poverty no longer exist, and compassion is the backbone of humanity.
Love & Peace
November 16, 2007 at 2:06 pm
I knew we could do it. There is enough of us. And such a nice result! ^-^
November 16, 2007 at 2:11 pm
together we will elevate human consciousness. a kind thanks to everyone!
peace
November 16, 2007 at 2:20 pm
Finally all of the hard work of the ONE members done some good. Keep on truckin and one day the world will be a better place. Peace and Love
November 16, 2007 at 2:27 pm
GREAT NEWS! Go ONE!
November 16, 2007 at 2:35 pm
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo!
November 16, 2007 at 2:43 pm
One is the way to go. Together we are going to change the world One time
November 16, 2007 at 2:46 pm
Yeah!!!!! It’s one step in the right direction!
November 16, 2007 at 2:56 pm
This is a great start. There are innumerable countries around the world, equally if not more destitute, and equally if not more in need of debt relief from the IMF and other agencies (including the US gov’t). Keep the faith. And, keep up the fight.
November 16, 2007 at 2:56 pm
Way to go to all of the ONE particapants. I am so honored to be part of this awesome work. Let,s keep going all the way. Great to know that just one person can make a difference.
November 16, 2007 at 2:58 pm
WE DID IT!! NOW CAN WE HELP STOP THE STARVATION AND MURDER IN ZIMBABWE?
November 16, 2007 at 3:05 pm
NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO, NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO, NAM MYOHO RENGE KYO
November 16, 2007 at 3:29 pm
Thanks so much ONE for empowering us all and providing a vehicle with which
we can clearly make a difference. This is gratifying work, and I am proud to
be a part of its evolution! Give Thanks!
November 16, 2007 at 3:47 pm
“We The People” can make a difference. Helping our fellow man is what life should be all about.
November 16, 2007 at 3:47 pm
With tears in my eyes and a lump in my throat, I realize that we are not alone, together as ONE, we are able to help right the wrongs. When I think back to those hot days in July in Philadelphia, sturuggling in the heat to help put on a show, when we hoped against the “convential wisdom” that said the kids would forget about ONE and abolishing poverty as soon as the gig was over, I am overwhelmed. Thank you, all of you, for caring, making the effort, for not losing hope or focus. I believe with every inch of my being that the ONE agenda, and the diplomacy of a candidate like Bill Richardson is the only path to world peace.
I wish my old boss, Joe Strummer could be around to see these results. I know it would have choked him up too.
Thanks again ONE, Jubilee, Data, and all of you. Together we will continue to make a difference.
November 16, 2007 at 4:13 pm
this is AWESOME!
it’s incredible that as a high school student sending ONE email, i was able to be apart of such a huge step in Liberia’s ability to move forward.
i am truly amazed.
November 16, 2007 at 4:21 pm
When you work together anything can be achived
November 16, 2007 at 4:47 pm
hey everyone thanks for making all of this happen!
whooo! go ONE!!!!!!
November 16, 2007 at 5:07 pm
You see we can all make a difference, with something as simple as in email, we all together can change so much…Keep up the Great work fellow ONE members, and make sure you always have your white band on….Peace, Rudy
November 16, 2007 at 5:24 pm
Incredible.
November 16, 2007 at 5:43 pm
WOOOWHOOOOO SCORE FOR TEAM ONE TEAM ONE 1 TEAM OTHER idk
November 16, 2007 at 6:12 pm
ITs a start a BIG start its great to be part of this,to be part of not a party or “group” that human beings can love and care for all human kind thanks
November 16, 2007 at 7:11 pm
It is amazing what one voice can do. I have hope that we can change the world. The one world that we all live in. Peace and Love to all.
November 16, 2007 at 8:19 pm
As they said in the 70’s “Power to the people.”
November 16, 2007 at 9:15 pm
All it takes is one x one to help….Peace and Tranquility.
November 16, 2007 at 9:27 pm
FANTASTIC!!! ONE gets it done! All it takes is a common purpose and greatness can be acheived. Many Blessings to the peaceful people of Liberia and the world.
November 16, 2007 at 10:41 pm
once again, the power of ONE is illustrated. the Talmud says that he who kills one person, it is as if he killed the whole world, but he who saves one life, it is as if he saved the whole world - because the world is enhanced or diminished by every single soul. let us not ever forget the power of people.
November 16, 2007 at 11:09 pm
Thank you ONE and Jubilee USA members and staff for all your hard work! It’s amazing the impact a group of committed and caring people have when they work together. Great job everyone and keep up the effort!
November 17, 2007 at 3:22 am
I’m very happy about this (amazed!); but I went to see the papers at the IMF website and I found that the Gov of Liberia will now be able to increase the salary of govt employees from US$ 30/mo to US$50/mo. WOW! I guess govt employees must have three jobs there to keep a family..This was a big step, but jit’s ust the start-there is much more to do. We need to do more, folks.
November 17, 2007 at 9:01 am
THIS IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!! GO ONE! GO ONE!
November 17, 2007 at 3:16 pm
im just so excited that we all worked as one too let our country know that we can help make a difference. One.org is becoming a national standard too our country. We all need too know that there are people out there to help keep our country and other countries in need of help become stronger and grow as one. i may be young and i may not know as much but i do know that we did such a great job and i hope many more people understand that they can help make a difference in their state and or country.
great job ONE members,
cassie
November 17, 2007 at 4:35 pm
As a new member of the Board of Selectmen for my small town I feel encouraged to see the results of common caring people for the ONE campaign. So many times I hear people in my town complaining about issues that they see in our community. I always challenge them to get involved and try to become the change. This is what the ONE campaign is doing. Not even little-by-little any more, but large steps are being taken to change the world around us because we are being moved to action. Each and every person who submits and e-mail, signs a petition, or calls a representative has been instrumental in changing the lives of those around the world that they don’t even know. I won my campaign by just a few votes. Those few votes, I know will be key in my being a force of change in my community. I would encourage everyone who participates actively in ONE lobbying to share the ONE vision with their friends, neighbors, co-workers, family, etc, because the more people we get on board for Debt Relief and other social issues the louder the unified voice will be around the world for change.
November 17, 2007 at 4:40 pm
It is so great that we can do something like this.Great job guys, we made a difference!
November 17, 2007 at 5:31 pm
Thanks for showing us the POWER OF ONE!! Keep up the great work!
November 18, 2007 at 10:08 am
One Works!! Don’t let anyone tell you that your voice doesn’t count. By spreading the word one person at a time and then by banding together for the common good look what WE can do. Remember this as we move into an election year.
November 18, 2007 at 2:39 pm
Let’s keep working on this matter convincing ourselves that defeating poverty we are going to relief the world. Moreover, shorting distances between us, what finally will end up on better and greater opportunities for everyone………………………………….
November 19, 2007 at 1:28 pm
I don’t think it’s a victory but, progress.
applying pressure to get someone to do what they’d said they’d do.
the right thing ….
November 19, 2007 at 1:31 pm
It used to be that 6 degrees of separation was the key to understanding an individual’s effective power. Now, it’s One degree with One! Steady as we go! Thank you!
November 19, 2007 at 1:39 pm
It is so rewarding to know your voice can make a difference… I wish the whole world could see the power of involvement it is a beautiful thing… Now if we could work on the peace process and getting the world to see no matter what your beliefs, color, or way of life, under the skin we are all humans, we bleed the same and feel pain the same, if only we could all love the same.
November 19, 2007 at 1:56 pm
I am so pleased and excited to read that every voice counts. Thank God for ONE ORG for caring and starting your organization, and for inviting me to be a part. . I am so honored to be part of your organization. It’s nice to hear that there are so many people out there who care,
All involved in helping the world are the “GREATEST” ones on earth.
GIVE LOVE/PEACE A CHANCE and see what happens……………………!
November 19, 2007 at 1:57 pm
Keep on keepin’ on!
November 19, 2007 at 2:02 pm
I am so happy that it worked, ONE is the best, keep up the good work ONE!
November 19, 2007 at 2:02 pm
We did it! I’m so pleased!
November 19, 2007 at 2:04 pm
This is great! hopefully the future of Democracy and make our votes count.
November 19, 2007 at 2:07 pm
Space is only as deep as one makes it. ONE makes it better! As ever be well. Stephen
November 19, 2007 at 2:10 pm
How do you spell Hallelujah? GO ONE! There’s more work to be done!
November 19, 2007 at 2:11 pm
Whoooooo! Hooooooo!
November 19, 2007 at 2:16 pm
It’s gratifying to see that we that have so much can collectively make a small impact to those less fortunate. I challenge every ONE member who reads this to share this experience with at least one non member. Fight the good fight.
November 19, 2007 at 2:20 pm
Good Job ONE!
Hopefully ONE day we will no longer here of suffering through injustice, poverty, or sickness in any country!
November 19, 2007 at 2:26 pm
Together we can all have a say in diplomatic activity. We can no longer ignore what happens outside our national borders. Popular diplomacy is the way forward thanks to organizations such as ONE and thanks also to the media and technology.
November 19, 2007 at 2:26 pm
Nice ONE !!!!!!
Thanx to everyone who gives a damn ….
One Love..
November 19, 2007 at 2:27 pm
I hope there are guarantees that Liberia will actually invest in its people and not waste money on weaponry.
November 19, 2007 at 2:29 pm
That’s great !!! but we are just scratching the surface !! we have a long way to go !! Tks all !!
November 19, 2007 at 2:31 pm
It is interesting how it takes so long for people to accept that the injustices made few centuries ago have to be replaced somehow! Thanks to ONE, Liberian people will get their “social security”rights.This way they will be able to pay over their “debts” .
November 19, 2007 at 2:34 pm
this is awesome….now i’m very happy cause i believe this progress is going to continue…..i’m proud of everyone who support ONE…..
November 19, 2007 at 2:38 pm
These are great news:) I am so happy to hear that we have made it!! It was a good ONE.. Now let’s do some more:)
November 19, 2007 at 2:39 pm
I am glad that I was able to help.
November 19, 2007 at 2:39 pm
That’s amazing! They have finally listened to our voice! Together we can make a difference. And it’s only the beginning! Thanks All!
November 19, 2007 at 2:40 pm
Together we make ONE!! Yeeeyyyyy!!!!
November 19, 2007 at 2:42 pm
sincere thanks to everyone who helped!!!
i am surprised the IMF acknowledged the mailing and hope we can keep the momentum going.
we have alot of work left to do and this victory is definitely encouraging
November 19, 2007 at 2:42 pm
Good Job ONE ! ONE is the best !
November 19, 2007 at 2:43 pm
Please send a copy to each member of Congress, all the Presidential candidates, etc., and mention all the other emergencies that need addressing right now. Not the housing market or gas prices, but Darfur and Bangladesh and the civilians living in mess the U.S. has made of the Middle East.
west/Bend
November 19, 2007 at 2:46 pm
I’M SO HAPPY I LOVE ONE . HAPPY THAT I WAS ABLE TOO HELP LOVE STEFANIE
November 19, 2007 at 2:49 pm
Awesome news! Way to go ONE members! We have been heard!
November 19, 2007 at 2:52 pm
Not a day goes by that I don’t recognize my own good fortune; education, family, food and resources. I know that my daughter will have that too and I want that for our whole global community. I appreciate being able to see such a small and easy-to-do action that I can take in the course of my day can actually work and make a difference. Thanks ONE!
November 19, 2007 at 2:58 pm
GREAT JOB EVERYONE!!!!!! let follow this one all the way through..!!!
November 19, 2007 at 2:58 pm
I am so overwhelmed! This is awesome!! Im so glad for the new possibilities for Liberia
So glad that we did it!!!
November 19, 2007 at 3:00 pm
Wow it feels great to think that you’ve made a difference in the world! And One is really working! this makes me want to do more pettitions and charity work, to see that it is working!
November 19, 2007 at 3:11 pm
I’m glad to hear the good news, VIVA ONE
November 19, 2007 at 3:11 pm
The Power of ONE speakes for millions. Thank you.
November 19, 2007 at 3:15 pm
Good Job! I think the next step is the follow up to make sure the leaders of Liberia use resources towards poverty reduction, so the cycle does not repeat again. I am very glad that the ONE team was able to pull this goal and you can count on us for the next one.
November 19, 2007 at 3:19 pm
Great news — and this is only the beginning. Good people can band together to change the world. Keep the faith!
November 19, 2007 at 3:19 pm
It is great to know what One joined with many can do! However, lets not break our arms patting ourself on the back, there is much more to be done.
November 19, 2007 at 3:23 pm
i never thought we could make a difference. Together we are a force!
November 19, 2007 at 3:28 pm
hello all.
I am a liberian living in liberia and is pleased to be a part of ONE.ORG
The debt cancellation on liberia is a salient issue at this time to invest in the human resources and the rebuilding of the socio-economic of liberia.
Let all be put into place for better coordination
November 19, 2007 at 3:38 pm
Now we should work on Brazil’s Debt! It is huge, and not only keeps the people in poverty, but also helps deforest the rain forest because it is one of the easiest natural resources to utilize.
November 19, 2007 at 3:40 pm
Great news. It made me have a great smile when i read it on the mail!.
Let’s keep up the good work!
November 19, 2007 at 3:52 pm
How little it takes from those of us more furtunate to help out those in dire need…..a few notes here and there and united we stand!! A force to be reckoned with!
November 19, 2007 at 3:53 pm
GOOD news !!!
Alone we can do nothing but sure ALTOGETHER we can do MORE! and make a difference !
“Que ceux qui ont faim aient du pain ! Que ceux qui ontdu pain aient fim de justice et d’amour”
“To those who are hungry have bread ! To those who have bread be hungry of justice and love !”
(Abbé Pierre)
November 19, 2007 at 3:58 pm
Has anyone addressed the issue of what is given in exchange for the debt relief?
When the United States and other countries agreed to “forgive” those countries indebted to them they earned the right to sole foreign proprietorship within those countries. This means that any country which the U.S. has forgiven must allow U.S. and ONLY U.S. companies access to proprietorship within that country for a specific time period.
The debt relief has turned out to be just another way for the maligned people of these countries to become further oppressed by their governments who are willing to sale out their country’s resources to the western culture and also represents a failure on the part of western culture to acknowledge the ethics of care within these sensitive situations.
November 19, 2007 at 3:59 pm
Its really great news, we did a difference together. Great day for all of us and we keep doing the good work because its do help
Have a nice smiling day all
November 19, 2007 at 4:13 pm
thanks for the continous updates… it’s great to know that changes really do happen and start with ONE person…
November 19, 2007 at 4:13 pm
its great job and great news.We did it!!
November 19, 2007 at 4:18 pm
It is Great to see that so many people can care for others in this world. It gives hope for the future. It will be a long up hill battle to help get these people a better life, but it is worth the struggle.
November 19, 2007 at 4:19 pm
One step closer
November 19, 2007 at 4:23 pm
Great!!!!!
One for All. All for One.
November 19, 2007 at 4:25 pm
Wonderful job everyone!!! We are ONE…
November 19, 2007 at 4:36 pm
wooohooooooooo
November 19, 2007 at 4:36 pm
Super! I’m very happy!
November 19, 2007 at 4:44 pm
i am so glad that we can acctualy make a diference! i hope for that every day! little things like these can change the world we live in! and this just makes me smile inside and out!
thank you!
November 19, 2007 at 4:50 pm
To all ONE members, great stuff, what a victory. Let’s start working even harder to eradicate poverty and disease that our brothers and sisters are suffering in other struggling countries also. And work towards a world where there is no poverty,where there is love and peace and no disease. May Liberia be blessed by God, may we now work to end world poverty in other poverty stricken countries also.
November 19, 2007 at 5:05 pm
ONE Love…
+ PEACE + Prayers +
*JESBCUZ7
November 19, 2007 at 5:07 pm
ONE Love…
+ PEACE + Prayers +
*JESBCUZ7
November 19, 2007 at 5:14 pm
It’s great to see many standing as one to help others, but it’s only a drop in the well…much work ahead.
November 19, 2007 at 5:19 pm
If we’re all united, We ONE prove, that we can change the world in to a better place !!!!!!!!!!!!
Fantastic job , way to go !
November 19, 2007 at 5:23 pm
This is so great. Gives me faith that maybe someone out there is listening. Blessings to all who responded in anyway.
Gogi Oregon
November 19, 2007 at 5:31 pm
Great!!!!!
ONE WORLD, ,ONE LIGHT,ONE HEART,ONE LOVE, ONE VOICE!!!!!
One for All. All for One.
November 19, 2007 at 5:31 pm
that is amazing. i’m so glad. this is one big step
November 19, 2007 at 5:36 pm
sometimes its hard to keep pushing for change because it seems like we never get anywhere or if something does change theres always one more issue. but when i see that normal every day people like you and me can push a major institution like the IMF to make the necessary actions, it gives me hope.
November 19, 2007 at 5:40 pm
as one!
November 19, 2007 at 5:43 pm
let´s do it
November 19, 2007 at 5:58 pm
Congratulations ONE! We did it again. Believe in the Lord for he makes all things possible.
Keep going, I’m right behind you and you have my fullest support. Poverty MUST end. Thanks once again for all those at ONE for all the hard work and tireless effort not forgetting all those who joined in to rally our support. Thanks also to IMF.
November 19, 2007 at 6:07 pm
It works I know. With voting, with money, whatever you want. The only thing is spread the word. I do as much as I can. Convince everybody. ONE this is the way to go-on!
It gives me hope, joy and love for a better world
November 19, 2007 at 6:08 pm
It it great to see that people not only can make a difference,
but DO make a difference!
Thanks to ONE for conecting us with this opportunity
November 19, 2007 at 6:15 pm
I am glad, that I was able to make a difference along with so many others. One Can make a difference, I cant wait to do it again!
November 19, 2007 at 6:24 pm
It’s working. We all can make a difference by juniting our voices.
November 19, 2007 at 6:40 pm
This is great! ONE is working well, and I am proud to be a member of such a devoted and sublime organization.
November 19, 2007 at 6:51 pm
This is great! One step at a time we can change the world!
November 19, 2007 at 6:55 pm
I stand with those comments before me literally with tears in my eyes. To see the impact for jubilee that can be made because we join our voices, because we dare to join a growing list of people committed to eliminating poverty. There is much work to be done, and even with this major victory, it can seem a daunting task, but as the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King reminded a weary and divided nation in his message about the song “We Shall Overcome,” delivered at a meeting of the AFL-CIO in 1961. May we take heart in his words”
“And as we struggle to make racial and economic justice a reality, let us maintain faith in the future. We will confront difficulties and frustrating moments in the struggle to make justice a reality, but we must believe somehow that these problems can be solved.
There is a little song that we sing in the movement taking place in the South. It goes something like this. “We shall overcome. We shall overcome. Deep in my heart I do believe we shall overcome.” And somehow all over America we must believe that we shall overcome and that these problems can be solved. They will be solved before the victory is won.’
‘I am convinced that we shall overcome because the arc of the universe is long but it bends toward justice. We shall overcome because Carlisle is right when he says, “No lie can live forever.” We shall overcome because William Cullen Bryant is right when he says, “Truth crushed to earth will rise again.” We shall overcome because James Russell Lowell was right when he proclaimed: “Truth forever on the scaffold, wrong forever on the throne, yet the scaffold sways the future.”
We can go from this victory armed with the knowledge that truth is on our side, that justice will come, if we will stand together and make a shining light to show the way! Let’s keep going! Jubilee came to one corner of the world! Let’s take it as a blanket to cover the globe!
November 19, 2007 at 6:55 pm
Congratulations Everyone, iam proud to be a memeber of This Organization, Togheter we can make a diference, please Take the Usa wall border to Mexico to stop this action!
November 19, 2007 at 7:51 pm
The Liberian families at our church send you their thanks — this gives us hope for better days for their brothers, sisters, parents, children and friends back home. Keep the faith!
November 19, 2007 at 8:00 pm
Great job to every. On great example of individual thinking, thinking that is not coventional, that is different that produces results.
Dr Wayne Dyer said in one of his speaches, that ( When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change) It may sound clever, but think and you can see that is (truth).
Peace and Prosperity to you all, and that your light, your beacon shine in the most remote pleaces in this world. Let it shine for all to see and let’s keep going.
November 19, 2007 at 8:17 pm
This is wonderful !!
One Love,
Rin
November 19, 2007 at 8:25 pm
Thanks ONE!!!!Dont give up!!!!!!!!!
“La única cosa necesaria para que triunfe el mal es que la gente buena no haga nada.”
Edmund Burke (1729-1797)
November 19, 2007 at 8:38 pm
This is amazing!
“One life, you ought to do what you should.”
November 19, 2007 at 8:39 pm
AWESOME!!!!
Made my night!!
November 19, 2007 at 8:39 pm
This are a wonderful news for the hole world
thans ONE for all the hard work and to all the people that made possible this challenge
November 19, 2007 at 8:46 pm
Gaskiya wanan labarin da dadi. Amam ya kamata One su tabbata cewa gomnanti Liberia zai yi anfani dan wanan kudin don taimankon bayin Allah.
November 19, 2007 at 8:51 pm
This is a result of belief in each other,that working together,no matter what format we use ,can make a difference.One has enabled us to help our brothers and sisters across the world.Who at this time could not speak and be heard,by those who could change their situation.Their voices were a mere whisper,now with Ones perservance,they will be enabled to speak and stand up for themselves.
This is a Good Day.We need to make more.
November 19, 2007 at 8:56 pm
well done, it’s like release one of their difficulties which is good for us also. i believe in round circle it means if we spread a good things we will received even more. so keep up your good work.
November 19, 2007 at 8:58 pm
I am glad that we acomplished something
November 19, 2007 at 9:02 pm
CooL…..
November 19, 2007 at 9:19 pm
welldone ,really this s th reall toungible step toward freedom for allthose sufferd humanpeople whom engaged and abcence of reall live bcs of unreall obsticalls named by money…may th coming generations will b more &more free in god life bcs th good willing people like ONE memmbers planting now so they will harve at the mean time>
god pless all ONE memmbers every where}{
November 19, 2007 at 9:32 pm
this is collective victory for all of us who r involved in this campaign.Now it has become quite true that,together we can ,together we will and together we should make the changes in the world we live.
Congrats to all!
November 19, 2007 at 9:34 pm
Yea!! Finally, a former American colony, released from the shackles of poverty, and it’s citizens given a fair chance to stretch their wings & soar. There really is hope for mankind after all.
Make Poverty History!
Hooray for the ONE campaign!!
November 19, 2007 at 9:37 pm
VIVA LIBERIA! VIVA ONE! What a wonderful thanksgiving blessing !
November 19, 2007 at 10:25 pm
Thank you to those who wrote, emailed and worked tirelessly to advocate for those in poverty, those without a voice. Let us continue to run the race!
November 19, 2007 at 10:34 pm
Great! It worked, it’s real! Thank you those who made an effort!
U2 good job!
November 19, 2007 at 10:50 pm
Dear One:
November 19, 2007 at 10:55 pm
It takes ONE person and then an otherONE, and then an otherONE to come together as a whole ONE, and make ONE difference in this little WORLD we live! It’s is a great accomplishment, however, let’s just not take granted from the ONE victory - there is still much left to accomplish in our world!!!
Congratulation to everyONE until next time! With LOVE,
November 19, 2007 at 11:01 pm
Dear One:
I tend to try and work out figures– such as- debt per person = a bit over $ 1200 per Liberian.
The per capita income per Liberian = $130 per year. Basically this means the debt was unpayable EVER. My ? to IMF and other lenders. Why would a lender which pretends to a financial institution make loans of such magnitude to a country where it would never be paid.
If the money was stolen as in many countries it rarely stays in the country and goes to financial institutions in secure countries, which cannot be done without people acting as enablers. What is being done legally to these 1st world enablers?.
November 19, 2007 at 11:27 pm
I’m glad that one.org and it’s members were able to make a difference and lift the debt burden off the people of Liberia. But it leaves me feeling that the goverment leaders are now more corrupt than ever. I am a radical in my opinions. I think that since the U.S.A. and it’s sister goverments should go into the country and take over for at least 25 years. Restucture every thing and jail the corrupt officials. The IMF leaders should be viewed as preditory lenders and delt with accordingly. But this is just my humble opinion.
November 19, 2007 at 11:31 pm
Yup it’s true! I checked out IMF’s website and was able to get to the article about the the debt relief for Liberia dated Nov 13 at http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/survey/so/2007/CAR1113A.htm
Wow, it works ! Congratulations everyone at ONE. Now it’s time to roll up our collective sleeves-there’s more work to be done in correcting global imbalance and poverty.
November 20, 2007 at 12:01 am
Hey! I just joined yesterday! What an inspiration to join Team ONE! Congratulations on everyone’s united effort.
November 20, 2007 at 12:32 am
It’s great to see a collective effort from various people taking effect. Here’s hoping that things can continue to go well with this organization and all the strides that it’s taking!
November 20, 2007 at 12:43 am
hi every one , i am happy for this great effort. KEEP it UP/….
November 20, 2007 at 12:46 am
This is a very good thing! More can still be done! So lets do it!!!
November 20, 2007 at 1:05 am
Hi every one,
Im Lebanese and im soo happy for this great success, its motivating, i wish we could end povrety all over the world.
All Together we can make a great difference in this world, we still have alot to do, Go ONe org,
ALL for ONE and ONE for ALL
November 20, 2007 at 1:32 am
Congratulations for all ! Hope this will be the milestone for the greater goal …
All the best from Indonesia
November 20, 2007 at 1:46 am
Congratulations for all ! Hope and pray, this will be the milestone for the greater goal. And if we continue, change will be made. I need to get in touch with some of the members, we talk privately.
More from Charles Lubwama.
November 20, 2007 at 2:00 am
I am once amazed and elated that simply signing an e-mail petition does work! ONE can and does make a difference. Congratulations!!!!
November 20, 2007 at 2:23 am
The ONE campaign offers an unique opportunity to transform the relations of the US government to the poorest nations of the world. Congratulations for this amazing success!!
November 20, 2007 at 2:48 am
I am very glad to hear that we as a people, have the power to help other people. The better part is that we are doing this without any ethnic or political views. We live all together on this planet and the more we can help, the more we will breach barriers that have been built, and go on to a peacefull and equal world.
Fascinating news..
November 20, 2007 at 3:05 am
THIS IS A LIE. Don’t Let this organization fulled you into believe this bull crap. The New IMF Director that took post on Nov 1st decided to pardon the debt to Liberia. It has to do with the President of this country coming to the IMF and made it happened. Has nothing to do with you and your emails. Is fullish for you to think that your emails had anything to do with it. I don’t know why you are lying?
November 20, 2007 at 3:07 am
Well I know why you are lying. Is all that money you are making for doing nothing…
November 20, 2007 at 3:12 am
Now let’s push this further and further till it’s impossible to fully ignore ONE!
Great job everyone, glad to see we can make a difference-
David
Belgium
November 20, 2007 at 3:13 am
ONE is the best, and i pray that God will continue to give everone of the board of directors of ONE the wisdom to do more for the world.
God Bless ONE. God Bless Nigeria. God bless America. God bless IMF for allowing them be used of God to free Liberia.
November 20, 2007 at 3:38 am
Congratulations One Campaign and everyone who made a contribution.. ……Lets continue to support Liberia that no strings are attached from IMF. That a good Heath and Education system will available to everyone.
November 20, 2007 at 3:45 am
It is encouraging to learn that each of our small voice made a big impact in numbers. It is great to see they actually acknowledged the fact that our e-mails made the difference. Now, we need to act true to our own words and each of us needs to make effort in our everyday life.
November 20, 2007 at 3:52 am
well done we can make it as one…thanks God
November 20, 2007 at 4:01 am
ONE for all and all for ONE!
Great job! Thank you!
November 20, 2007 at 4:27 am
“We all inOne” can make a difference. Helping human being is what life should be all about.
November 20, 2007 at 6:13 am
This has made my day, a lot of people tell me I waste my time signing petitions and speaking up for what I believe, here is proof positive that if we stick together our voices are heard.
November 20, 2007 at 6:17 am
Hurrah!
As an African, I’m so happy that something I contributed to has had such a positive impact on one of our countries. For once I feel empowered.
Thank you all ONE members/subscribers!
Keep it up!
November 20, 2007 at 6:26 am
One love, one life, one voice… We got to do what we should.
November 20, 2007 at 6:28 am
I am glad that One has been successful in this cause. We became One and opened the door for others in the world to receive relief. This is a victory and it is an important one. We still have plenty of work to do. For this moment we can feel and enjoy the sense of accomplishment from our efforts.
Then we need to get back to work!
November 20, 2007 at 6:36 am
Well done to everyone involved in the campaign and thanks for making so many part of it. So much more to do - now we know we can…
November 20, 2007 at 7:47 am
hey the world am happy that now rich countries recorgnize that LDC’s need to development through the program that they’v enacted vive the policy makers and vive the world collaborators
November 20, 2007 at 7:53 am
Thanks God.
Finally, we can make it.
November 20, 2007 at 8:11 am
Kudos to the One Campaign!
Onto another battle: ARE WE GOING TO ALLOW THE FCC CHAIRMAN GRANT CORPORATE MEDIA ABSOLUTE CONTOL OVER OUR AIRWAVES? WE HAVE UNTIL DECEMBER 11, AND THEN PUBLIC COMMEMNTS WILL NO LONGER BE HEARD!! For background on this, see last week’s Bill Moyers’ Journal on PBS.
How about drafting a letter to our Senate and House reps before time runs out??
.
November 20, 2007 at 8:20 am
Hi I’m so happy and proud to be part of this,now our voices are stronger than before,thanks to everybody and let`s go for next step,God is hearing.
November 20, 2007 at 8:34 am
It’s an excellent outcome.I hope Liberia will not fall again in the debt cycle.I also hope that a such decision will not be seen as a form of impunity.I strongly believe that debt in Africa is caused by a poor governance,corruption and lack of accountabilty.I will encourage the international financial institutions to consider african leaders and politicians personally liable instead of their innocent countries.
November 20, 2007 at 9:24 am
Outstanding, but I have still have concerns that these additional funds will truly reach the people. What do we have in the way of a watchdog in this area?
November 20, 2007 at 9:41 am
Wow it’s great knowing you’re actually making a difference out there…most people have a tendency to think that “I’m just one person, what can I do?” Well, this is proof that a single voice can start a revolution!!
November 20, 2007 at 9:46 am
great progress, keep on…
November 20, 2007 at 10:03 am
that is good ONE is working great new cool ONE revolution
peace respect sun and love
November 20, 2007 at 10:56 am
i’m very happy and proud about the good job that ONE is doing, well all together we are a great ONE that can make a difference and can change things
November 20, 2007 at 11:01 am
I am so happy that we have joined our voices together, and as you see created a positive effect. We should always remember that the strength are in the numbers, together as a team we can do so much more then alone. Blessed be all those who took time out of their busy schedule to make this happen. Let us keep together, helping those in need.
Always a friend in spirit,
Lisa Joy
November 20, 2007 at 11:32 am
I am so glad that One is working. We all together can change world!
November 20, 2007 at 11:46 am
Congratulations to all you ONE members, and thankyou to IMF!!!
November 20, 2007 at 11:52 am
Acho muito importante o trabalho desenvolvido por este orgão,em pró dos mais carentes
e que precisam da todos nós.
November 20, 2007 at 12:08 pm
I am happy and may God bless the directors of IMF,But the leader of Liberia should take care of all what she id doing we love to see better africa,no more civil war or tribal war.JAH TAKE CARE
LOVE
ALFRED FROM GHANA
November 20, 2007 at 12:30 pm
Let us also never forget the problems here at home also……
November 20, 2007 at 12:34 pm
Isso é com certeza muito maravilhoso, acho muito bom o trabalho que todos vocês fazem!!!
Nota 1000 para vocês!!
November 20, 2007 at 1:15 pm
One.org is defiently making a differnce for the world.
This is beyond awesome!
November 20, 2007 at 1:19 pm
We made it! Thanks to ONE.org!
Please, help the people from Darfur!
Saludos desde CHILE!
November 20, 2007 at 1:30 pm
This is a most wonderful job that ONE CAMPAION doing, though i am not doing a part but learingthe activities done by the gouph is really a kind of a mile stone in human. I like it……
November 20, 2007 at 2:13 pm
Hey everyone! Our own Josh Lozman (policy director for ONE Vote ‘08) just posted a new entry with the answers to some of your questions:
Here’s the link:
http://www.one.org/blog/2007/11/20/follow-the-where-will-liberias-debt-relief-go/
And below is a cut and paste:
>>>
Thank you again for all the work you all have done to help move Liberia’s debt cancellation forward. There have been some questions about the future use of this debt cancellation money. I want to provide with you some facts and figures.
First, in order to qualify for the HIPC (Heavily Indebted Poor Countries) debt cancellation process that Liberia has now entered, a country must establish a track record of macroeconomic stability and must have a national poverty-reduction plan. That Liberia met these two requirements so quickly after such a prolonged period of conflict (their 14-year civil war) is a testament to their early success and the leadership of President Johnson Sirleaf.
Second, debt cancellation has proven to be an effective means of delivering poverty reduction. Some success stories:
-In 2005, Nigeria spent $750 million of $1 billion in debt relief through a tracking system (the “virtual” poverty fund) that monitored and tracked the flow of funds to poverty-reducing activity and evaluated its impact. This money was directed to education, health and infrastructure projects.
-For every dollar freed up from debt services, African governments have increased social spending by twice as much.
-Overall expenditures on poverty reduction in all HIPC countries increased from $14.8 billion (9.3% of GDP) in 2005 to 16.7 billion (10.2% of GDP) in 2006.
Below is a chart that graphically depicts the impressive increases in poverty-reducing expenditures in countries that have past “completion point” in the HIPC process.
-Josh Lozman, ONE Vote ‘08 Policy Director
November 20, 2007 at 2:31 pm
ONE Wish~ ONE Voice~ ONE Dream~ ONE World~ ONE Answer….WE ALL DID IT!!!!!
Congratulations to US. All who’ve shared their heartfelt thoughts & emotions to make this all possible.
Let’s keep it all going as ONE…..
Take Care
November 20, 2007 at 2:41 pm
Band together as ONE!!! Move mountains!!!
This is so awesome! Thank you one.org and thank all of you who took the time to send the e-mails! My holidays will be much brighter this year because of this wonderful news! All of each ONE of us does make a difference!
Take care and happy holidays…
November 20, 2007 at 4:04 pm
Great news. About time someone is listening.
November 20, 2007 at 4:43 pm
This is awesome news for Liberia, and hope for Africa as a whole.
November 21, 2007 at 7:45 am
I am very glad that I could help in solving this really big problem !!!
I am coming from a poor country and I am happy to hear when somebody, somehow helps poor people, even if it is not my country and me involved.
Thank you ONE, for your existence !!!
November 21, 2007 at 8:41 am
I AM PROUND TO BE PART OF HISTORY,THAT I CONTRIBUTED TO RELIEF LIBERIAN DEBT,ONE CONTINUE WITH THE GREAT WORK WE ARE SOLIDLY BEHIND YOU TO MAKE POVERTY HISTORY.
November 21, 2007 at 12:31 pm
One thank you for getting us all together to help—Africa needs so much help and it is a blessing to say I helped a little——go Liberia (she was created for the American free slaves back in early 1800s and capital name after our Pres Monroe—so Liberia is like our adoptive child and we owe her our help)
November 21, 2007 at 12:38 pm
THIS MAKES ME FEEL GOOD- WITH THE CLICK OF A BUTTON. NOW LETS FEED THE CHILDREN IN OUR COUNTRY TOO
November 21, 2007 at 2:05 pm
I can’t believe it…..it’s amazing!!!I’m speachless right now…………….I can only say that we must go on on our way,we have the chance to change something wrong,we can really amke something good!
Many compliments to all “One”members!!
LET’S GO GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 22, 2007 at 9:21 am
nice to know
November 22, 2007 at 12:30 pm
Hey friends!!! We did it one more time!!! I feel we can change the world….
Here we are!!!!!
November 22, 2007 at 11:39 pm
go one..keep up the charitable work..god will always lead us to the way to success!!
November 23, 2007 at 5:27 am
Thank all ONE members , Please DO IT FOR DR CONGO , I’m Congolese; plse join us to fight poverty in our country thanks
November 23, 2007 at 10:59 am
i feel good that i was helpfull, i am from ROMANIA, and here is also needed the help , and i hope, in the future, ONE can help us too !!
November 23, 2007 at 12:31 pm
Once again we have proved that there is strength in numbers! It feels great to know that we are really making a difference. I hope that someday our efforets will bring the world out of poverty forever.
November 25, 2007 at 1:11 am
wow one is soo amazing they have helped soo many ppl!
November 25, 2007 at 2:00 am
ONE is amazing
November 25, 2007 at 3:51 pm
I.m very happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 26, 2007 at 10:29 am
This proves that with unity, there’s strength…a strength for a purpose and a strength to silently but with a pivotal force to change the world.
As a Liberian living in Liberia, I know what debt relief means and know that it can do a whole lot in pushing our country one step ahead.
Thanks to all of you One members who sent out emails to the IMF on our behalf. Liberia is indebted to you for your genrosity and the kindness of the human spirit you showed just with a click of your mouse!!
Lets do it for other 3rd world countries in the same dire straits….
Viva, ONE, and Bravo!!!
November 26, 2007 at 11:49 pm
good job for everyone,to the best
November 27, 2007 at 12:23 am
November 27, 2007 at 9:35 am
As a proud Catholic and One supporter I’m so happy to hear this news, and very happy about the support from the Catholic Bishops. It feels so good to know the letter writing and petition signing is working!!!
November 27, 2007 at 5:11 pm
For the first time In 14 years! Yay!
November 28, 2007 at 1:45 am
One life
November 28, 2007 at 9:08 am
This is great news…..It is great to know that our efforts are working!!
November 28, 2007 at 1:12 pm
Thx for giving me a chance to help each others
Everybody should happy at it
It was coll,anyway
December 4, 2007 at 11:17 am
This is a proud moment for all mankind especially Liberians. ONE’s efforts have pays off.
I’m very proud as a Liberian to say I’m a ONE member. ONE works, yes it does!
Thanks to all of you for everything you do to make a difference.
God bless us all.
December 4, 2007 at 11:32 am
This is a proud moment for all mankind especially Liberians. We see ONE’s efforts making a difference. Amongst all human differences in the world, there is still much compassion.
I’m very proud as a Liberian to say I’m a ONE member. ONE works, yes it does!
This will give Liberia the jump-start it needs to head in the right direction.
Thanks to all of you for everything you do to make a difference.
God bless us all.
December 9, 2007 at 6:43 pm
Well, that was great! Congratulations for you all!
But now it will be time to put strict vigilance over Liberia’s budget, because it is very likely that they might spend this money on useless issues, spend it on weapons or lose it in the labirinths of corruption. Feel happy for Liberia, but also increase vigilance around it!
(P.S.: Sorry for any English mistake I might have commited…)
December 14, 2007 at 3:21 am
Ferry Good the ONE…!!!
December 16, 2007 at 1:29 pm
Very very nice…
United we can achieve anything…
Cheers everyone…