More on the persecution of child “witches” in Africa

The phenomenon of the modern-day African witch hunts, where innocent African children being declared to be witches and wizards and then forced to undergo torturous and disfiguring exorcisms, many of which result in the child’s death, is one that is older than anyone can reliably estimate. It’s also a movement that seems to be only gaining in momentum, especially in certain regions such as Nigeria, as Christian delusions sweep through the land and embroil the populace in utter inhumanity. Thankfully, this also means that the light of international attention is being shone upon this horrible scenario, and a new, 48-minute documentary has been released. Below is a 5-minute preview. Note that understandably, this is not for the faint of heart, though it is Safe For Work.

Watch Saving Africa's Witch Children in Activism & Non-Profit  |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

Yes … religion truly is a wonderful influence on the world. And, don’t give me any bullshit about it being only the fundies and fanatics who cause problems – they are merely the epitome of where such stupid, irrational, ignorant, damaging and oftentimes downright immoral beliefs eventually lead. No Christian should be able to look at these horrible acts and feel morally exempt from being a member of such a ridiculous and dangerous system of beliefs. Nor should any religious person, in the end, unless you can prove to me that your brand of faith has (and can) never lead to such inhumanity.

Meanwhile, if you wish to help, your first stop ought to be to donate to the Child Rights and Rehabilitation Network (CRARN), a humanitarian organization that runs several orphanages and help centers for persecuted children in Nigeria. Also be sure to stop by Stepping Stones Nigeria, a charity organization behind the above video and devoted to attacking some of the issues that affect children in the region, from child witches to human trafficking.

(via Dispatches From the Culture Wars)