How to Hold a Vigil
A powerful way to raise community members' interest in human rights issues is to hold a silent candlelight vigil on behalf of a person or group of people your group is supporting. Consider inviting not only students and community members but ally organizations as well. Vigils can also draw attention to other events you have planned, such as a guest speaker or film screening.
Some points to remember
- Obtain permission from local authorities or your school administration. A permit to demonstrate is often required. Plan adequate time to obtain permits - depending on the venue, it can take weeks or even months for a permit to be issued.
- Plan your program. Set the length of the vigil by determining how it will start, how it will end and what will happen in between. Some vigils begin with a few words about the purpose, a reading about a case or a poem that demonstrates the importance of the issue or situation. During the vigil, participants may either maintain a silent focus or choose instead to read names or statements relevant to the issue. To wrap up, give a call to action, and make sure everyone is asked to join AIUSA.
- To get your message across, be sure to have clearly worded signs that demonstrate your purpose. Incorporate photos if possible (i.e., a giant photo of the person or issue you are focusing on).
- Bring lots of candles.
- Use wax-paper cups to prevent candles from dripping or blowing out. Simply cut a hole in the bottom of each cup and insert candles.
- Use the candlelight to create a pattern - a line or a circle - that can easily be seen by others.
- Don't block entrances, sidewalks or passages.
- Designate two spokespersons to stand apart from the vigil line or circle to distribute action materials and talk to passersby who want to know what your group is doing. The vigil itself should be as free from distraction as possible.
- As with any event, bring a sign-in sheet and clipboard to pass around or to greet people with. Remember to follow up with newcomers.
Concentrate on the quality of the vigil; numbers are important, but are not decisive.
Check List
Identify and reserve your location Do you have a banner? (Order a banner [PDF format - members section]) Order or download Amnesty flyers Create a flyer for your group Use the sign-in sheet (in PDF) Check with your regional office (in PDF) about your event
- Sign-in Sheet (in PDF)
Related “How To” documents
- How to Promote your Group
- How to Hold a Forum
- How to Hold a Teach-in
- How to Work with the Media
- How to Work with Other Organizations
- Volunteer Leaders
- Regional Offices (in PDF)
Adapted from "Co/Motion Guide to Youth-Led Social Change"
