Week-Long Protest Aimed at Sen. Coburn to Support Uganda Bill

By Rusty Surette, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Young adults from across the country continue to gather in downtown Oklahoma City to protest Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn.

The week-long demonstration is growing and supporters said they'll go on a hunger strike if needed.

They said Republican Senator Tom Coburn is the one and only person blocking millions of dollars from going to a country that desperately needs it. So far the protest outside his office in downtown Oklahoma City has had little effect, but as they enter the second week, protestors said changes are on the way.

Elena Frink, 19, is the newest member of the group. She arrived just a few hours ago from Seattle to meet another friend from Chicago.

"He came up and hugged me and then I was swarmed by hugs from all these people I never met before, too," Frink said.

The purpose behind the hugs and the playful and peaceful protesting is a serious one. Protestors said time is running out for the South Africa country of Uganda, and Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn is the one man whose standing in the way of help.

"We're asking him to work with us to pass the LRA Disarmament Northern Uganda Recovery Act to help end the longest running war in Africa," said Mark Nehrenz of Oklahoma.

The bill, which would provide $40 million in funding to Uganda, has gained unanimous consent in Congress, except for Senator Coburn who supports the bill, but only if lawmakers find a way to pay for it.

Learn more about the group's efforts in Oklahoma.

"For us it's worth it to sleep out in the cold to know we can have a voice and make an impact on ending what they're going through," Nehrenz said.

Organizers of the protest said someone new shows up every day from different parts of the country, and they've got a growing group of supporters online. Some who couldn't make it here have said they'll go on a hunger strike until Senator Coburn caves in and agrees to help the helpless in Uganda.

The group plans to hold a news conference at noon Friday. They'll announce their next steps, which will include asking for a 20 minute telephone conversation with Senator Coburn.

Watch a live feed from the downtown Oklahoma City Uganda demonstration

More on News9.com:
- Sen. Coburn Blocking Bill That Would Give $40 Million to Uganda
- Oklahomans 'Held Ransom' for Uganda Children