What is
Amnesty International?
Amnesty International is a world known organization advocating human rights.
In many parts of the world, people are held in prison for expressing their
ideas, or are held in unsanitary, unsafe, or tortorous facilities. The
individual chapters are encouraged to help change these injustices by
non-aggressive protest in the form of letters. The local chapters are supplied
with the story of one or several persons being abused or unreasonably held, and
the address of the government responsible. Letters are then sent from all over
the world to the government leader in question demanding the release or humane
treatment of that country's citizens.
How do I get
involved?
In GHS, Amnesty is unique in that it is a student run organization. Listen
for announcements regarding the first meetings, or talk to Ms. Kunick. She
helps facilitate the meeting, and often gives the students a place to
work.
What do I have to do in
Amnesty?
Amnesty can take a minimum of time commitment or take a lot of effort. The students often plan 'open mike' nights
to raise money for postage and other materials. Planning for event like this may
be a way to get involved, or you may simple elect to write the letters. Any
involvement in the group is welcome.
What's in it for
me?
Although Amnesty itself by nature is a selfless organization, there are a few
perks to becoming a member. Most importantly, you often hear of success stories
that you have written letters for, and knowing that you contributed is a
wonderful feeling. Another bonus, is that sometimes the group orders pizza for
nights when there are a lot of letters to write. Amnesty is also a great way to
make friends, since you may spend a lot of time with them in meetings, and the
cafe nights are a great place to hang out. Amnesty also can get a page in the
yearbook, so make sure you smile for the picture!
Where can I learn
more?
You can visit the Amnesty International Web Site at : http://www.amnesty.org.