This is "Women of the Congo," a rug I designed to raise awareness about the genocide that took place in Africa. An episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show opened my eyes to what was happening in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: mass murder, rape, unbelievable violence and cruelty. The images and interviews with victims were burned into my mind.

Though I had seen vague reports and news clips before, after seeing Oprah's program, I could no longer sit by and stay silent. I felt compelled to make these tragic events known everywhere. If we continue to look away, more lives will be lost.

If you are inspired by this rug or are curious about how you can make a difference, please visit this web site: www.womenforwomen.org