THIS IS NOT your average story. It began in November with two CUC students staging a simple protest in front of the Embassy of Belarus here in Washington, DC. Let's just say it's gotten a lot bigger since then. The best way to start the story is to quote an article from Charter97.org, a political watchgroup website.

"Two students members of Poglyad, a new civil initiative that is fighting for freedom and peace in Belarus through the use of non-violent and non-confrontational civil actions, staged a peaceful action in November to coincide with the Day of Solidarity planned in Belarus to protest the imprisonment of political prisoners; the disappearance of oppositionists and their families; the censoring, impresonment, and murder of inocent journalists; and to demonstrate on behalf of all who fight for freedom and democracy in Belarus."

The students mentioned are Henry Johnson (left) and Gene Groom, both freshman at Columbia Union College. Since then several CUC students have participate in protests at the Belarus embassy. Protests have been held on the 16th of every month ever since, and this Thursday, March 16, the biggest protest to date is scheduled. Organizers are calling March 16th the "Day of Solidarity with Belarus" to remember all those who are oppressed in Belarus. Several members of Congress have agreed to participate and Henry Johnson is hoping for more than 200 people. The timing of this protest is crucial since the elections in Belarus are scheduled for March 19. Belarus is widely considered Europe's 'last dictatorship'. Although elections occur in Belarus, it is generally accepted that the results are rigged in order to keep the current president in power.

This is yet another example of the kind of thing you can't do at just any Adventist college. Henry and others are doing the kinds of work that has the potential to help bring about global change. And they're doing it right here in Washington, DC Imagine that. Not bad for a freshman in college.

There is so much more to this story. Check back from time to time for updates. For much more information about on Belarus and the upcoming elections, check out these websites.

Charter 97
Poglyad
Stories in the Washington Post
Stories in the New York Times

Photo: Two CUC Students protesting in front of the Embassy of Belarus