Oklahomans 'Held Ransom' for Uganda Children

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- At the capitol, dozens of Oklahomans held themselves for ransom in hopes of making a difference half a world away. It was part of a worldwide rally called "The Rescue" that's happening in 100 cities and 10 countries.

Hundreds took to the streets, marching from the bombing memorial to the state capitol to be a voice or the voiceless for the conflict in Uganda. They camped out in sleeping bags and tents until around 10:15 p.m. Saturday waiting to be "rescued."

"I know I'm a small fish in a big pond but it's like I like knowing that I did something for people that their voices aren't even heard," said student activist Mary Beth Omido.

They're called the "Invisible Children," thousands of Uganda children who are abducted and forced to fight as soldiers, held by Joseph Kony and his Lord's Resistance Army in Central East Africa.

"Our end goal is to end the war in northern Uganda and bring justice to Kony and the rescue of the thousands of child soldiers who's been abducted," said student activist Mark Nehrenz.

These activists 'abducted themselves' to parallel the lives of those children in the war, sleeping in the streets, outside the comforts of their homes until a political or cultural figure rescues them, showing their support in ending this long running battle.

"I hope to bring huge awareness to eventually get these kids to a safer place and be able to get their story out and really just set them free," said Student activist Micah Matthews.

Rep. Mary Fallin came and rescued the Oklahoma activists around 10:15 p.m. Senator Jim Inhofe is rescuing young activists at a similar event in Washington, D.C.

Learn more about the efforts to save Uganda's invisible children and and track what cities have been rescued.