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Faculty Advisor - Amnesty International Student Group IVCC

What is it?  Amnesty International (AI) is a world wide human rights organization that works for the release of prisoners of conscience, to end torture, and protect human rights around the globe. (what's a prisoner of conscience? See below)

Why should I join? In case you haven't noticed the world is getting smaller and like it or not, what happens in other countries around the globe affects you and me.  In countries where human rights abuses go unchecked, terrorism takes root and frequently thrives. By defending human rights, by working to ensure that all people, everywhere, are treated equally, by asking questions and keeping watch in places where basic human rights are frequently violated, we make it harder for these kinds of atrocities to continue, and, consequently make the world a safer, better, place.

What will I do as a member?  If you get involved with the IVCC AI group you will

• write letters to governments on behalf of prisoners of conscience
• work for the release of prisoners of conscience around the globe
• actively work to protect human rights of all peoples everywhere
• get involved on campus to raise awareness of AI and our mission
• get to meet and work with other like minded individuals
• have the chance to attend AI conferences
• join in social events that the group plans

When do we meet?  Our first meeting will be Wednesday August 27th at 12noon in my office. This will be a short organizational meeting to determine schedules and best meeting times. We try to schedule at least two meetings a month with the hope that everyone can attend at least one.

Contact Info: Merri Mattison D-315 (note that this is a different office for me), ext 281 or off campus at 815-224-0281 or email me at Merri_Mattison@ivcc.edu

* A prisoner of conscience is an individual imprisoned solely for her/his social, political, religious beliefs or sexual orientation and who do not advocate the use of violence. 

Does AI work? In it's 50 years of existence more than 50,000 prisoners of conscience have been released and countless other have avoided the same fate due to the diligent work of AI activists. 

"...if there's a lot of pressure - like from Amnesty International or some foreign country we might pass them on to a judge. But, if there is no pressure, then they're dead" Former Torturer, El Salvado

“We need to reclaim what we have for too long ignored and neglected: the opportunity for active and meaningful engagement in our own communities..." --  Bill Shore