AI KIDS' Summer Solidarity Action

AIKids' Urgent Action

Summer 2008 AIKids' Solidarity Action

For many people, summer is a time for vacations, picnics and recreation. But for prisoners of conscience or those who defend human rights in many countries, summer brings no relief from the potential danger and sense of isolation they may face. By simply sending a postcard, however, you can help support these women and men. You will find information here on several cases of concern to Amnesty International. Please send cards to these people expressing your support and encouragement.

PDF version of AI Kids' Solidarity Action

FEATURED CASES

CHINA – The Tiananmen Mothers

In June 1989, the Beijing military violently attacked a group of students and peaceful protestors in Tiananmen Square. Since then, a group of 130 women and men whose family members were hurt or killed during the crackdown have joined together to form a group called the Tiananmen Mothers. They ask the government to allow victims' families to mourn publicly for their loved ones and for the release of those who are still in prison for the protest. Their efforts have resulted in discrimination and imprisonment.

Amnesty International believes that the Tiananmen Mothers have a right to speak out against the government without fear. With the eyes of the world turning to China for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, it is an important time to keep in mind the cause of the Tiananmen Mothers.

Please send letters of support to:

Tiananmen Mothers
c/o Amnesty International USA
Program for Individuals at Risk
600 Pennsylvania Ave SE
Washington DC 20003

BELARUS – Alyaksandr Kazulin

Alyaksandr Kazulin was arrested in March 2006 after he led a peaceful march to protest the arrest of hundreds of people who had spoken against the Belarusian presidential elections. He was charged with disturbing the public peace, and after an unfair trial, he was sentenced to five and a half years in prison.

Amnesty International considers Alyaksandr Kazulin to be a prisoner of conscience because he was arrested to stop his involvement in political activities. Please provide Mr. Kazulin with the support he needs by sending him a postcard.

Please send letters of support:

Alyksandr Kazulin
IK No. 3
Vitsba
211300 Vitsebsk region
BELARUS

ZIMBABWE – Women of Zimbabwe Arise

Members of Women of Zimbabwe Arise (WOZA) have been targeted, harassed and intimidated by the police for years. On May 5, 2008, police officers broke up a peaceful demonstration by WOZA members who were protesting against post-election state-sponsored violence. After the demonstration, approximately 60 WOZA members had to be treated for injuries they received at the hands of the police.

Amnesty International is extremely worried about the ill-treatment of WOZA members fighting for human rights in Zimbabwe and asks that you show your support to these brave women. Consider incorporating the symbol of a rose in your messages, as WOZA members often give out paper roses during their peaceful marches.

Please send letters of support:

WOZA
PO Box FM 701
Famona
Bulawayo
ZIMBABWE

LIBYA – Fathi el-Jahmi

Fathi el-Jahmi, a 67-year old former provincial governor, has been imprisoned by the Libyan government since March 2004 after he criticized Libya's leader, Colonel Mu'ammar al-Gaddafi, and called for political reform in interviews with international media. Ill with diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure, Fathi el-Jahmi was held in solitary confinement and not allowed to see his family. The Libyan government claims to have released him to the care of his family; however he is actually being held by government officials at the Tripoli Medical Center. The government has taken his passport, leaving him unable to travel for much needed medical care.

Amnesty International considers Fathi el-Jahmi a prisoner of conscience because he is imprisoned simply for his political beliefs.

Please send letters of support:

Fathi el-Jahmi
Tripoli Medical Center
University Street
(next to Al-Fateh University)
Tower 1, 3rd Floor, Room 603
Tripoli
LIBYA