We are activists on the frontlines.
Our volunteers shape, lead, and carry out our work to protect human rights. These volunteer leaders fill a wide range of critical roles: they start and run local groups, they manage legislative advocacy in the states, they drive campaigns in individual cases and on major reforms, and they engage more people in fighting for human rights.
In other words, volunteers change the world. Here are a few of their stories.
Najeem
AREA COORDINATOR (AC)
ACs are volunteers that organize groups in their state to collaborate on initiatives, develop partnerships with other human rights activists, and mobilize to protect human rights.
Mohamed
AIUSA EGYPT COUNTRY SPECIALIST
Country and Thematic Specialists are volunteers with expertise in specific areas who work to develop and implement AIUSA strategies to advance human rights.
Anita
LEGISLATIVE COORDINATOR (LC)
LCs are volunteers that work in states to advance our legislative priorities to protect human rights.
Scott
STATE DEATH PENALTY ABOLITION COORDINATOR (SDPAC)
SDPACs are volunteers that organize and advocate at the state level to abolish the death penalty.
Lauren
YOUTH LEADERSHIP IN ACTIVISM (YLA)
Youth Leadership in Activism is a volunteer leadership program at AIUSA encompassing four member leader roles: Peer Trainers, Student Activist Coordinators (SAC), Slack Community Managers and Social Media Managers.
Gauri
YOUTH COLLECTIVE (YOCO)
The Youth Collective is a national volunteer youth leadership body that provides thought leadership, strategy, consultation, and guidance to AIUSA.
Become a Volunteer Leader
Volunteering can be an opportunity to learn more about important issues, to gain new skills, and to meet and connect with people who care about the same things. Our volunteers often talk about gaining a sense of purpose and fulfillment while doing critical work in making a positive difference in the world.
As I take on the role of Executive Director at AIUSA, I am immensely humbled by the history and legacy of Amnesty's volunteer base. Having been a student activist and community organizer myself, I know that choosing to dedicate time to a cause, an organization, or a community takes grit, resilience, and passion. We are so fortunate to have such committed volunteers who keep Amnesty's community and impact strong throughout this country, and indeed throughout the world.
This is a time when it is crucial for us to keep investing in our people power, and in activism that leans into our individual and collective power and agency. We are facing a pivotal moment where human rights norms, institutions and those defending human rights are facing an all-out assault here at home in the United States and around the world; where authoritarian practices are taking hold, protections are being stripped away, and entire communities are being demonized.
Together, as a member-powered, grassroots organization, we will keep fighting for a future of dignity and justice for all. I am in awe of your efforts, courage, and determination to speak up and take action in defense of human rights, wherever they are threatened – and it is more important than ever.
Thank you to each one of you for all that you do, this month, and every month.