Amnesty Greeting Cards Campaign

This happened last month, but I didn't get an opportunity to blog it until now. As well as writing for rights on the 10th December, my lovely colleagues got involved with the Amnesty Greeting Cards Campaign.

I left a selection of cards on a spare desk, with details of the campaign and they chose who to write to.

I'm delighted they got involved and they were pleased to have the opportunity to take part. And we ended up with a satisfyinig pile of cards.

Letter to Yemen's vice-president

Abd al-Rab Mansour al-Hadi

Vice President

Office of The President

Sana'a

Yemen

21st November 2011

Your Excellency,

I would like to bring to your attention the case of Fatima Hussein Badi. Fatima was sentenced to death in February 2001 for the murder of her husband Hamoud Ali al-Jalal. 

Fatima was threatened with rape during her interrogation by the police and denied access to a lawyer. During a number of her trial hearings she had no legal representation and was prevented from speaking in court. 

I am writing to you to urge you to commute Fatima Hussein Badi’s death sentence, as she was convicted following an unfair trial. 

I call on you to ensure that Yemen works towards abolition of the death penalty, and ask that all defendants in Yemen be tried in accordance with international standards for fair trial, including ensuring that all defendants have access to legal representation and adequate time and facilities to prepare a defence.

Write for Rights on 10th December 2011

All year round, and all over the world, people write letters in support of prisoners of conscience and people facing human rights abuses.

Now in its 50th year, Amnesty International is co-ordinating a 'Write for Rights' day, on 10th December. Amnesty is highlighting cases and asking people to join the campaign for their rights.

As well as writing letters to people in positions of power, Amnesty is asking people to join their greetings card campaign.

By sending a personal message in a card, you can show your support and solidarity with the people highlighted, who are often being held in terrible conditions.

Amnesty says, "for prisoners of conscience, for families whose relatives have disappeared, for people in danger for defending human rights, the cards bring comfort and hope; they offer encouragement and support, and raise spirits. Above all they are a sign that people care.

The cards can also make an impression on police officers, prison staff and political authorities - and that can help to improve the way they treat individuals at risk."

Find out more and get involved at: www.amnesty.org.uk/write.