Gems NOT Genocide is a philanthropic club at Harriton with over 100 active participants, founded by sophomore Abri Bernstein in 2010. The club meets weekly to make and sell jewelry and the profits go towards helping end the ongoing conflict in Darfur.

Tragically over 400,000 people have died and over 5 million and counting have been displaced from their homes. Along with Abri, Sam Braver, Staci Dubow, Julia Saul, Lindsey Barrison and Lindy Schwartz play a big role in managing the club. Sam runs the jewelry committee, Abri and Julia are in charge of the fundraising committee, Lindsey runs the advertising committee, and Lindy directs the new membership group.

On Thursday, October 27, 2011, the club held a special event in the LGI where members presented a $2,000 check to Susan Burgess-Lent, a representative from the Darfur Peace and Development Organization (DPDO). Also, in attendance was a representative from Sudan named Huda Bakheit.

The event had a great turnout and Susan Burgess-Lent gave an insightful presentation about Darfur and the school DPDO is building there.

Sam Braver said “I was really impressed with how many people showed up to support us. Seeing a room filled with so many students and parents was very heartwarming. It also felt nice to meet a representative from Darfur and someone from DPDO. The club is thankful to everyone who came and happy that we could educate so many.”

Club Founder Abri Bernstein is also pleased she and her peers are making an impact, “Just because we are teenagers and live in a different continent doesn’t mean we can’t make a difference.”

Gem’s NOT Genocide is always looking for new members to contribute in any way they can. Contact [email protected] and follow the club on twitter!