For years, civil war has torn Syria apart. Innocents have been murdered, bombs have obliterated cities, and as fighting continues–spurred by a failed ceasefire–more wreckage continues.

So why are so few talking about it? And why is nothing being done?

The truth is that America has yet to decide its role in the Syrian crisis. While many can agree that the atrocities committed thus far are unforgivable, no one can decide whose responsibility it is to intervene. Should the United States send forces to help with evacuation? Should the United Nations do more than simply scold the Russian government for playing such a heavy hand?

Sovereignty is a complicated matter, and guarded closely by almost all nations throughout the world. There is no power that ultimately decides the fate of all, and until there is, fighting will continue between superpowers as they attempt to deal with Syria.

Not to mention the warped relationship between Russia and the United States. After a decades long Cold War that divided the world, relations have slowly begun to warm up between communist-held Russia and the capitalist-driven United States; however, with Russia’s intervention in Syria, tensions have yet again started to rise.

President Obama has stated his strong opposition to current Syrian President Bashar Assad. Russia, however, continues to show support and send troops to aid in President Assad’s continued plunder of Syria, spurred by their own interests in key naval facilities within Syria.

The current situation is a complex one that few have been able to work around. Yet many refuse to let the voices of Syria, and Aleppo, be silenced. Yesterday, the Eiffel Tower went dark in show of solidarity for Syrian civilians whose lives have been devastated by the war. Some celebrities, such as The Vampire Diaries star Paul Wesley, have tweeted their support and asked for their fans to donate to relief funds.

Many civilians within Aleppo have recorded videos themselves on social media. Their haunting last calls to loved ones and final declarations are a testament to their suffering–and the suffering that many refuse to acknowledge. The United State’s ugliest election in years has left citizens disillusioned with politics and world events. Most would attest that the U.S. must deal with its own issues before helping those abroad.

However, looking past rose-colored lenses and our beloved JoCo bubble, there is a grave situation in Syria, one that could even go without consequences. Everyone must look toward the final moments of Aleppo and recognize the severity of Syria’s situation. To put aside our differences, and band together our voices for those currently being silenced, is the key in avenging those murdered in the name of a fruitless war.