Human Rights
It's an issue that should concern us all.
Because I live in America, I feel that I sometimes take for granted simple rights that I am guaranteed under the Constitution. You know.....a fair trial by a jury of my peers, knowing the crime of which I am being accused, and being appointed a lawyer if I cannot afford one. These and other rights are what I can expect in America. But, other countries aren't so lucky.
Many prisoners of conscience are imprisoned in Middle Eastern and African countries. These governments opperate so differently from mine that I sometimes find it hard to fathom why some of the prisoners are in jail. In these countries, people can be arrested for writing a letter to a friend and in it, complaining about the government. Imagine if they were to actually take a stand against a government that they thought was oppressive. Simply imprisoned? Most likely worse.
This is where Amnesty International steps into the situation. Owned by no government, it is an organization to protect human rights advocates everywhere.
As a member of Amnesty International at Saint Mary College, I participate in weekly Urgent Action Appeals. Amnesty sends our group information on prisoners and we write letters to thier captors and/or government officials. Often times we do not ask for the unconditional release of the prisoner. We ask that he or she is informed of his or her accusations, offered a fair trial, and given legal, medical and spiritual aide.
The importance of this international organization is undeniable and I urge you to become involved with a chapter in your commmunity through a school or university.
Links to other sites on the Web
Here are more urgent action appeals....it's an easy way to get involved....just fill out the info and you can electronically fight for human rights.
Nelson Mandela is one of the great champions of Human Rights....learn more!
Wangari Maathai is a friend of Mandela *and* a college classmate of my mother....check out my page all about this amazing woman!
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Thanks for letting me stand on my soapbox :) � 1997 [email protected]
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