In 1961, Peter Benenson saw that, by using our freedom to act for a just world, people uniting together can achieve extraordinary things.
The founder of Amnesty International knew that sometimes it is the small things that people do, multiplied thousands of times, which create real change.
“Our strength as a movement has always come from this unity of purpose,” said Nadine Poznanski, with the Vernon Amnesty community group. “Over 50 years, thanks to the commitment of Amnesty’s three million members, thousands have been liberated from unjust imprisonment, torture and even death. “It has also led to the improvement of countless individual lives.
“Despite the impressive gains that have been made over those 50 years, our work is not done. We must continue to stand up demanding human rights for all. For us to have real impact this year, we need to come together in concerted action: from maternal health to the death penalty and corporate accountability, these will be actions on which people power can really make a difference.”
The local group will celebrate Amnesty’s 50th anniversary on June 15, raising “a toast to freedom” at the Schubert Centre from 7 p.m. to 9 pm. Everyone is welcome. Amnesty’s 50th anniversary website is at www.AI50.ca
