June 2009

Dear Freedom Writer,

When the Freedom Writers Network was formed more than 20 years ago, it broke new ground in providing Amnesty International members with pre-written letters on key human rights cases and concerns. Through the Freedom Writers Network, Amnesty offered a quick and easy way for anyone to be a human rights activist.

Amnesty International today provides a wide range of case actions through our website. As the costs of producing and delivering Freedom Writers actions each month have increased, we have re-examined the role of the network. Based on this assessment and the overall human rights impact we can have, we are combining two of our strongest activist networks into one.

Freedom Writers and the Urgent Action Network
Moving forward, we will merge the Freedom Writers Network into our Urgent Action Network. This will allow us to build one powerful network to help people at risk of human rights violations. The Urgent Action Network consists of more than 150,000 AI activists around the world who are poised to respond rapidly when Amnesty learns that someone is at grave risk.

Urgent Action appeals provide on one sheet the information you'll need to send messages to relevant authorities. Since Freedom Writers have typically used a sample letter on which to base their own appeal letters, we will continue to provide our members with a sample letter for the featured Urgent Action (UA) case each month. You will find that featured case each month on our website.

You can find more information about the UA Network and many more cases on which you can take action at our website at: www.amnestyusa.org/urgent

Sign Up to Get Actions By Email
If you wish to receive case actions each month via email or postal mail, please complete the brief online form at: www.amnestyusa.org/freedomwriters/uan

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at: email: iar@aiusa.org

Since the creation of the network in 1986, Amnesty's Freedom Writers have inspired me again and again with their dedication and their caring. That determined desire for justice and human rights can now find expression through the help we provide to individuals via AI's Urgent Action Network. For people at risk around the world, Amnesty International's members help provide hope when all hope seems lost. I thank you for the important role you play in making this happen.

Very best regards,

Mike O'Reilly
Director, Campaign for Individuals at Risk