The ONE Campaign launched their ONE Vote '08 initiative at St. Mark Episcopal Church in Washington DC on June 11, 2007.

Former Senator Bill Frist spoke passionately about the initiative. As a medical doctor, he has traveled to clinics in Africa several times. He pointed out that the US is safer if poverty doesn't spread in places like Africa. Extreme poverty can breed hopelessness, which can allow terrorist activities to get a foothold.

Former Senator Tom Daschle used to be a political rival of Frist. Now they are working together.  Daschle said "one billion people live on less than $1 a day."  The campaign intends to make AIDS and extreme poverty in Africa a top campaign issue in the Presidential race in 2008. With over 2 million people signed up, the ONE Campaign is a significant force, especially to be focused on one issue.

The African Children's Choir sang and danced. They recently appeared on "Idol Gives Back".

Karen Sichinga explained that the United State's efforts are making a difference. She lost two of her brothers to AIDS. The drugs that are now available, and not expensive in Africa, could have helped her brothers. She stressed we need to do more. The drugs are not getting to everyone that needs them.

Christian activist Pastor Brian McLaren brought some levity to a serious issue, "I don't think it's written in the Bible, but if enough people suffer in the world, rock stars will start crying out."

You can sign up at onevote08.org. You can also be a volunteer.

New Video for the ONE Vote '08 Initiative

Extended version of video