The leadership of the Organization of Liberians in Minnesota (OLM) has lauded the mediation efforts currently being undertaken by the Advocate for Human Rights and Congressman Erik Paulsen to resolve the simmering conflict in OLM.

A press release issued here today quotes the Chairman of the Board of Directors of OLM, Hon. John Tarley as saying that the ongoing effort on the part of what he referred to as the "most reliable and dependable partners" of the Liberian immigrant community in Minnesota...demonstrates their love and concern for Liberians and assured his unwavering commitment to the effort.

Speaking further, the OLM Chairman who led an array of community and opinion leaders, including other stakeholders to the first of a series of consultative meetings aimed at finding a lasting and workable solution to the ongoing conflict. The meeting was held under the auspices of the Advocate for Human Rights and Congressman Paulsen, called on all Liberians to lend their support to the ongoing meditation initiative to give peace a chance.

He expressed optimism that the effort will yield fruitful result, and admonished all parties to the conflict to put aside their individual differences, close ranks and work together for the collective good of the community.

"I personally want to call on Mr. Clarence Yaskey and his group of supporters to understand the need for peace in our community. This is not about the laws on the books; this is about the people, our common good and the community we all love so much. Let us put aside our egocentric gains and be more altruistic for the common good of our people that need us the most".

He then expressed his profound appreciation to the membership of OLM, and other stakeholders for their unwavering and resolute commitment to bring this matter to a logical conclusion.

He particularly thanked the Community Intervention Committee (CIC), The Liberian Ministerial Association (LMA) and all other groups for their pioneering initiative to mediate the conflict. I call on all county and tribal organizations who have not gotten involve doing so, because this is about our children and their future in this new land.

May peace continue to be the center of everything we do. God bless us all