Want to hang out with SZA? You may have the opportunity, as she and other Black artists and creators come together to raise money for Sudanese nonprofits. This exciting initiative is not just about star power but aims to support a critical humanitarian cause.
From today until January 12, an online auction titled “Freedom for Sudan” is taking place, “bringing together the most generous greats across music, fashion, food, and film.” This auction offers a plethora of unique items and experiences. Not only can you bid on a merchandise bundle or spend time with SZA, but there’s also an exclusive portrait crafted by Pink Pantheress and two free tickets to any of The Weeknd’s upcoming shows. According to the organizers, 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to essential organizations such as the Sudanese American Physicians Association and Mattar Blue Movement, directly impacting those in need.
Supporting this noble effort are some of the most prominent names in music today, including Central Cee, Olivia Rodrigo, Kelela, Dave, and MIKE. Their involvement highlights the collective responsibility of artists to leverage their platforms for positive change and show solidarity with those enduring hardship.
Amel Mukhtar, a British Vogue associate features writer, plays a pivotal role as an organizer of this fundraiser. She has previously written about the crisis in Sudan for the magazine, bringing increased awareness to this pressing issue. Alongside her is Edward Enniful, the former editor-in-chief of Vogue, who is contributing a signed copy of his new publication, 72 Magazine, to the auction, further emphasizing the collaboration of media and creativity for a cause.
The “Freedom for Sudan” initiative isn’t limiting itself to celebrities and artists. The Black-owned brand Telfar, renowned for its chic vegan leather shopping bags, is generously providing unreleased items for the highest bidders. Additionally, the Sudanese Kitchen and Jazz Cafe, both based in London, are contributing exclusive prizes, showcasing a blend of culture, cuisine, and compassion.
To understand the necessity of such initiatives, one must confront the grim realities facing Sudan. The ongoing civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has led to unimaginable suffering. The people of Sudan are grappling with famine, displacement, and devastating loss. The United Nations reports that over 500,000 people have lost their lives, 12.5 million have been forcibly displaced, and a staggering 30.4 million are in dire need of humanitarian assistance.
Disturbing reports have emerged recently, such as satellite imagery showing large swaths of land covered in bodies and blood stains in el-Fasher. These visuals provide a harrowing insight into the devastation experienced by the Sudanese people, reinforcing the urgent need for assistance and intervention.
The Freedom for Sudan auction is described as a “new initiative to support the people in Sudan in their mission to end the violence and exploitation and rebuild with a civilian government.” This timely auction opened today at 11 a.m. GMT and will close next Monday at 11 p.m. GMT, offering a pivotal opportunity for everyone to contribute in some way, whether by bidding, spreading the word, or simply standing in solidarity.