Manual for Amnesty International, Canadian Section Members & Groups

Publisher:  Amnesty International, Canada
Year Published:  1977
Pages:  34pp   Resource Type:  Article
Cx Number:  CX409

The Canadian appendix of the Amnesty International manual.

Abstract: 
Amnesty International was founded in 1961 and now has over 30,000 members in 33 national sections. The Canadian Section numbers about 3,000 members in 32 groups across the country. Amnesty International opposes torture and the death penalty in all cases and without reservation. It is currently conducting an international campaign for the Abolition of Torture. Amnesty International advocates fair and early trials for all political prisoners. It works on behalf of individuals detained without charge or without trial and those detained after expiry of their sentences. It has been one of the leaders in the world-wide effort to have conscientious objection recognised as a fundamental human right. It is also committed to ensuring that the human rights of refugees, including their right to asylum, are respected. Today it remains the only organization of its kind in the world. Amnesty International has worked to promote the implementation of universal principles not only at the level of government but through the concerted action of committed individuals working in small local groups. Their work is based on detailed research into specific cases of individual prisoners as well as mass violations of human rights. The Canadian Manual is designed to provide essential information for groups working within Amnesty International. It is presented as an appendix/booklet to the Amnesty International Handbook. The Manual contains a history of the Canadian Section, an outline of its structure and officers, and its programs including the "Canadian-adopted Prisoner of the Month." There is information about active Canadian groups, international co-ordinators, the monthly bulletin and the structure of Amnesty International. Resources available from A-I are also listed.
Towards the back of the manual are a series of questions frequently raised by inquirers about A-I prisoners and participation in A-I work. These questions include: "Aren't they criminals? terrorists? Communist's, "Will I get into trouble?" "How do I know it's true?. " Some suggestions are made about how one might respond to these kinds of questions.

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