Aleppo is burning. At least that's what the hashtag says. By now, you've probably seen countless videos, articles, and posts condemning the violence that's happening to the Syrian people of Aleppo. And, hopefully, the countless posts are urging you to do more than just share them. Instead of using Facebook react to show your support for the people of Aleppo, you can actually help them. Here are some ways you can help the victims of war-torn Syria:
1. Contact your representatives
Talk to the higher ups, your Russian Embassy, your elected officials and urge them to support humanitarian aid. Email them, call them, write them letters. Pressure them to take action. This website has a letter you can use if you're stuck on what to say. The link also has ways to check in on Russian embassies and tweet politicians.
2. Donate
There are many organizations that are sending support to the victims in Aleppo. The White Helmets, Doctors Without Borders, and the Syrian American Medical Society are all examples of organizations that are helping the people of Aleppo. A full list can be found here .
3. Join a demonstration
Many local protests and demonstrations are looking to raise awareness and demand action in Syria. Join local demonstrations. If there aren't any happening in your area, organize one.
4. Volunteer with refugees
There are refugees settling all over the world, and there are probably some in your area. Leaving a life behind and making a new one in a new place is hard, and you can be there to support refugees around you. Whether it's volunteering your time to teach them English, or opening your home to them, there are many organizations that support local refugees. You can get involved with them and make a direct impact on someone's life.
5. Support refugee rights
There are refugee camps around the globe. Governments are closing their doors, and refugees have nowhere to go. You can support refugees by donating to organizations that support refugees, and demanding action be taken to help them.
Years from now when we look back at the inhumanity of the situation in Aleppo, we're going to ask ourselves how we could have let it happen. Don't sit back and watch the videos. Take actions today to help change the world.