As violence between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) escalates, Philadelphia’s Sudanese diaspora is speaking out in support of Sudan’s liberation, increased humanitarian aid, and increased attention to the crisis. Last month, hundreds gathered for a rally and march that started at Dilworth Park, sharing stories emerging from Sudan, where famine and displacement is worsening.

A desire to return home is common among many American-based Sudanese. A member of the Sudanese Youth of Greater Philadelphia, Rymaz Ahmed told Al-Bustan about the concerns she has regarding the impact of distance and trauma fatigue. “You feel the burden of what’s going on back home but you’re not experiencing it directly, so there’s a disconnect,” Ahmed said.