2011 Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference

2011 Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference November 11-14, 2011 National Harbor, MD Our Mission Table of Contents Amnesty International is a grassroots movement of ordinary people from around WELCOME MESSAGE...... 1 the world standing up for individual freedoms CONFERENCE SPEAKERS ...... 2 and human dignity. We investigate and expose human rights abuses, educate and mobilize MEET THE STAFF AND INTERNS ...... 4 the public to action, and help transform Meet the 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference societies to create a safer, more just world. Our Planning Committee...... 6 life saving work has been honored with the Nobel Peace Prize. Human Rights Agenda for AIUSA...... 7 With more than 3 million supporters, activists SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE...... 8 and volunteers in over 150 countries, and complete independence from government, PLENARIES...... 10 corporate or national interests, we work to White House Flash Mob to Free Filep Karma...... 12 protect human rights worldwide. Our vision is SPECIAL PROGRAMMING...... 13 of a world in which every person - regardless of race, religion, gender, or ethnicity - enjoys all WORKSHOP BLOCK I...... 14 of the human rights enshrined in the Universal WORKSHOP BLOCK II...... 15 Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights standards. SPECIAL THANKS...... 17 Founded in 1961, our organization has SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS...... 17 campaigned successfully in recent years for the International Criminal Court and a UN ABOUT THE HOTEL AND CONFERENCE FLOORPLAN...... 18 Torture Treaty. Through our research and action, STAY INVOLVED...... 18 governments have been persuaded to stop human rights violations and change their laws and SAVE THE DATE...... 18 practices. Death sentences have been commuted. Growing Amnesty International to Confront Urgent Torturers have been brought to justice. And Human Rights Issues of our Time...... 19 prisoners of conscience have been released. We Universal Declaration of Human Rights ...... 20 ask you to join us - to take action and stop human rights abuses wherever they occur. Rise Up! Take A Stand!! Be the Change!!!

elcome to Amnesty International USA’s 2011 Mid- While people are rising up around the world to reclaim Atlantic Regional Conference in National Harbor, their rights, we are proud to recognize similar movements W MD right at the door step of our nation’s capital, that are growing right here in our region. On Saturday Washington, DC. Our conference theme, Rise Up: Be the evening, we will host a panel of important voices at the Change! highlights the popular uprising in the Middle East frontlines of struggles for human rights and social change. and North Africa for individual freedom and human dignity This exciting panel will be an amazing opportunity to bring and reflects a deep desire on the part of our members to tap these movements home, and inspire us all to stand taller into the energy and inspiration of this global struggle against and shout louder. injustice and oppression. Coming on the heels of our 50th Be sure to attend the Friday evening Cheesecake and Anniversary, this conference will celebrate and rekindle the Resolutions roundtable, and the Resolution Working Party passion and commitment of millions of Amnesty Interna- and Voting Plenary on Sunday morning. Please review the tional members to solidarity actions for global justice. program for more information on additional events includ- Since its founding in 1961, Amnesty International and ing the Saturday action at the White House to demand the its members have been a powerful force for positive social immediate and unconditional release of Filep Karma, Am- change, and have been unwavering in our firm commitment nesty International Prisoner of Conscience and our Special to realize the vision of a world where human rights become Focus Case. As has been our tradition over the past five a living reality for all people everywhere. Over the years we years, we are offering morning yoga sessions on Saturday have successfully secured the release of tens of thousands of and Sunday to allow attendees to “stretch their activism”. Prisoners of Conscience, shined a light on torture, degrading Holding the conference at the doorstep of our nation’s and inhumane treatment, made significant progress on the capital provides the appropriate opportunity to speak truth way to abolishing the death penalty, stood up against injus- to power. We invite you all to join us on Monday for our tices based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality or refugee Congressional Lobby Day action on immigrants’ rights status, helped establish the International Criminal Court and (DREAM Act), Maternal Health Accountability Act of 2011, brought hope to millions of people around the world and our free Filep Karma campaign. Our 2011 conference is a continuation of our efforts to For the Closing Plenary, we will have the honor and empower Amnesty International members to take action privileged of hearing from Audryne Karma, the daughter of around important human rights issues of our time. We are Filep Karma, who will speak about her father’s case and proud to be hosting Amy Goodman, award-winning investiga- the global campaign to secure his immediate and uncondi- tive journalist and syndicated columnist, author, and host of tional release. We will also use this time to recognize and Democracy Now! Amy is a global champion of human rights, honor some of our amazing members and groups who have corporate accountability and a big supporter of the work of been doing exemplary work in the cause of human rights. Amnesty International. Her radio program, Democracy Now! We thank you for your many wonderful contributions to was the only media outlet live streaming the recent execution the cause of human rights and spending this weekend with of Troy Davis by the state of Georgia. Amy will be joined by your fellow Amnesty International activists at our 2011 Re- Curt Goering, AIUSA Interim Executive Director. gional Conference. We hope that you will leave informed, Over the course of the weekend you will have the op- inspired, and with a renewed commitment to rise up every portunity to choose from workshops covering key areas day, take a stand, and be a veritable agent for positive of Amnesty International’s priority campaigns including social change in our world. the Individuals at Risk, Death Penalty Abolition, Demand Dignity, Security with Human Rights, and Crisis Prevention In Solidarity, and Response. All workshops are designed to be interac- The Staff and Interns of AIUSA’s Mid-Atlantic tive, and provide you with skills necessary to be an effec- Regional Office (MARO) tive advocate for justice. We are also excited to be offering The 2011 Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference the cultural sensitivity workshop “From Evil to Understood? Planning Committee (MARCPC) Responding to Islamophobia 10 Years After 9/11” facili- tated by seasoned activist, Abbas Jaffer.

1 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Conference Speakers

AMY GOODMAN is an award-winning investi- nia, Lebanon, Turkey, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Jordan and Egypt. gative journalist and syndicated columnist, He also participated in two missions to Mongolia. author and host of Democracy Now! which Goering was born and raised in Kansas. He spent nearly airs on more than 950 public television and four years in Europe doing alternative service during the radio stations in 35 countries around the Vietnam War. He holds a Master’s degree in Arab Studies world. Goodman is the first journalist to receive the Right from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. and a B.A. Livelihood Award, widely known as the ‘Alternative Nobel in Peace Studies and German from Bethel College in Kan- Prize’ for “developing an innovative model of truly indepen- sas. He has also attended universities in the Middle East dent grassroots political journalism that brings to millions of people the alternative voices that are often excluded ELLEN DORSEY has 25 years’ experience pro- by the mainstream media.” The Independent of London moting international human rights, particularly named Amy Goodman and Democracy Now! “an inspira- economic and social rights, and advocating tion”; pulsemedia.org placed Goodman at the top of their for environmental sustainability. Dorsey is the 20 Top Global Media Figures. Executive Director of the Wallace Global Fund, Goodman is the author of four New York Times bestsellers. a private foundation located in Washington, DC, that focuses Her latest book, Breaking the Sound Barrier, proves the power on environmental sustainability, corporate accountability, of independent journalism in the struggle for a better world. women’s rights, criminal justice, media reform and civic par- She co-authored the first three bestsellers, StandingU p to ticipation. Dorsey came to the Fund from The Heinz Endow- the Madness, Static, and The Exception to the Rulers, with ments in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, serving as senior program her brother, journalist David Goodman. officer for the Environment Program. Dorsey has served on the For more information about Amy Goodman and to board of numerous non-profit organizations promoting human find a local broadcast of Democracy Now!, please visit rights and sustainable development, including serving as democracynow.org. chair of the board of Amnesty International USA. Dorsey has a doctorate in political science from the Uni- CURT GOERING is Chief Operating Officer for versity of Pittsburgh, was selected as a Fulbright Research Amnesty International USA and works at the Fellow in South Africa, and has served on the faculty of sev- organization’s national headquarters in New eral Universities. She has lectured and written extensively York City. Goering has been involved with on effective strategies of non-governmental organizations Amnesty International at many levels for over and social movements. Most recently, Dorsey is co-author, thirty years, including positions at Amnesty’s international with Paul J. Nelson, of New Rights Advocacy: Changing headquarters in London and at its government relations of- Strategies of Development and Human Rights NGOs, pub- fice in Washington, D.C. lished in 2008 by Georgetown University Press. Over the past year, Goering headed the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in the Gaza Strip and Eben Kirksey is a cultural anthropologist at was responsible for its day-to-day operations there, includ- the CUNY Graduate Center who studies the ing building its human rights monitoring functions, inter- political dimensions of imagination as well as ventions with government authorities, and its training and the interplay of natural and cultural history. capacity building programs. His first book, “Freedom in Entangled Worlds”, Goering’s work involves oversight of all aspects of Am- details the story of Filep Karma’s first flag raising and subse- nesty International’s operations in the US. He has carried quent human rights abuses by the military in West Papua, the out numerous assignments for Amnesty’s International half of New Guinea under Indonesian control. Duke University Secretariat in London, including working in its Research Press will publish this book in March 2012. Yusak Pakage Department and conducting various research missions in was among Eben’s students in 2003 when he taught a gradu- the field, particularly during human rights crises. Among ate seminar at Walter Post Theological School. them: Afghanistan, Iraq, Israel/Palestinian Authority, Bos-

2 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference (Weekend), and appears regularly on Al Jazeera and Voice KATHARINE REDFORF, Esq., Co-Founder and US of America. She has hosted a WashingtonPost.com online Office Director of EarthRights International, is a chat and has published pieces in BBC’s Focus on Africa graduate of the University of Virginia School magazine, NAACP’s Crisis magazine as well as the Miami of Law, where she received the Robert F. Herald, the Christian Science Monitor, New York Newsday, Kennedy Award for Human Rights and Public the Nation, the Baltimore Sun, and the Rochester Demo- Service. She is a member of the Massachusetts State Bar crat and Chronicle, among many others. Ms. Woods is chair and served as counsel to plaintiffs in ERI’s landmark case of the Board of Africa Action and serves on the advisory Doe v. Unocal. Katie received an Echoing Green Fellowship committee of the Zimbabwe Alliance as well as the Human- in 1995 to establish ERI, and since then has split her time ity United/Trustafrica Liberia program. She is also on the between ERI’s Thai and American offices. In addition to Board of Directors of Global Justice and is a member of the working on ERI’s litigation and teaching at the EarthRights Network Council of Jubilee USA. Schools, Katie serves as an adjunct professor of law at both UVA and the Washington College of Law at American ABBAS JAFFER is currently a doctoral student University. She also sits on the Boards of the Bank Informa- in Anthropology at Harvard University. His re- tion Center (BIC), the Center for International Environmental search interests center on issues of masculin- Law (CIEL), and Oil Change International. She has pub- ity and religion among Muslim communities in lished on various issues associated with human rights and South Asia. He previously completed an MTS corporate accountability. In 2006, she was selected as an in Islamic Studies at Harvard Divinity School, and received Ashoka Global Fellow. Katie has been profiled in the books his BA from the University of Denver in International Stud- Be Bold and Your America: Democracy’s Local Heroes, and ies. He has written on issues of gender, religion, and leader- the award-winning documentary film Total Denial. ship for the online news magazine Altmuslimah and the “On Faith” section of The Washington Post. He most recently CHARLIE CRAY is a research specialist with contributed to SAGE’s Multimedia Encyclopedia of Women in Greenpeace. He is also director of the Center Today’s World, published in March 2011. for Corporate Policy. Over the last 20 years he worked on numerous environmental and DAVE ZIRIN is named of the UTNE Reader’s corporate accountability campaigns. He co- “50 Visionaries Who Are Changing Our World”, authored The People’s Business: Controlling Corporations and Dave Zirin writes about the politics of sports Restoring Democracy (2004), and is a former associate editor for the Nation Magazine. He is their first sports of Multinational Monitor magazine. writer in 150 years of existence. Winner of Sport in Society and Northeastern University School of Jour- EMIRA WOODS is co-director of Foreign Policy nalism’s 2011 ‘Excellence in Sports Journalism’ Award, Zirin In Focus at the Institute for Policy Studies, is also the host of Sirius XM Radio’s popular weekly show, and an expert on U.S. foreign policy with a Edge of Sports Radio. Dave Zirin is, in addition, a columnist special emphasis on Africa and the devel- for SLAM Magazine and the Progressive. He is the author oping world. She has written on a range of of six books on the politics of sports. His newest book, in issues from debt, trade and development to U.S. military collaboration with John Carlos, is The John Carlos Story: The policy. Emira serves on the Board of Directors of Africa Sports Moment that Changed the World. Action, Just Associates, Global Justice and the Financial Policy Forum. She is also on the Network Council of Jubi- ISABEL CASTILLO has lived in the Shenan- lee USA. Emira completed her undergraduate studies at doah Valley for the past 20 years. She is a Columbia University and her graduate studies at Harvard. graduate of Turner Ashby high school and Prior to joining IPS, she was program manager for the Com- Eastern Mennonite University. She is a mem- mittee on Development Policy and Practice at InterAction, ber of the board of New Bridges Immigrant serving as a principal staff contact for advocacy at the UN, Resource Center, a volunteer social worker /interpreter for the the international financial institutions,U SAID and Treasury. Harrisonburg Public Schools. Isabel is the founder of DREAM Previous to that, she served as a program officer of Oxfam Activist Virginia and co-founder of the National Immigrant America’s Africa program. Ms. Woods is a regular commen- Youth Alliance. Isabel advocates for immigrant rights and tator on CNN’s Your World Today, BBC’s The World Today young students like herself across Virginia and across the

3 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Conference Speakers (continued) on over 50 major television stations worldwide. He is CEO of International WOW and is from Appalachia. country. She has led rallies, organized a march on Washing- ton D.C., and staged a non-violent sit-in at Senate Majority Audryne Karma. Born in August 1987, Leader Harry Reid’s (D-NV) office, which led to her arrest but Audryn is the elder of Filep Karma’s two not deportation. On May 2011, the University of San Fran- daughters. After obtaining her undergraduate cisco awarded an honorary doctorate degree to Isabel Castillo degree in dentistry from the University of Paja- for her unwavering advocacy for the passage of the Dream jaran, Bandung, West Java, in 2010, Audryn is Act. She received this degree on behalf of all undocumented currently practicing her internship to pass the state licensing youth who are currently in college or graduated from college exam before becoming a professional dentist.

MARI-LYNN EVANS is CEO and Executive Producer for Evening Star Productions, is an award-winning filmmaker and anti-Mountain Top Removal Activist with extensive experi- Meet the Staff ence in all forms of media. Her company has FOLABI OLAGBAJU is the Director of Amnesty been awarded several national Emmys and a Peabody Award. International USA’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Of- Mari-Lynn is the Executive Producer of Coal Country (Dis- fice. Before this he was the Director of the Just covery Channel) which included a book and CD with music Earth! Amnesty International USA’s Human from Willie Nelson, Gillian Welch, Ralph Stanley, Natalie Rights and the Environment Program. The Merchant, Bonnie Raitt, Justin Townes Earle and John Prine. Just Earth! defends the rights of environmental activists and All profits from this film project are donated to The Alliance communities at risk from human rights abuses connected to for Appalachia. environmental degradation www.amnesty-usa.org/justearth. She also Produced LOW COAL, her second documentary html. Through the Just Earth! Network, human rights, environ- focused on the impact of the coal industry in Appalachia. mental activists and partner organizations are brought together Mari-Lynn was the Executive Producer of the award winning to raise public awareness, hold corporations and governments three-part PBS television series, The Appalachians, with accountable and to take action on behalf of persecuted envi- Johnny Cash’s last interview, a film which the New York Times ronmental defenders and indigenous communities. called “an elegant film about a region and a people that are Prior to joining Amnesty, he spent eight years in the US rarely examined beyond stereotypes”. This timeless film has labor movement as a Research Organizer with the Service been seen by over 60 million people, and has been one of Employees International Union (SEIU) where he helped PBS’s most successful pledge films. low wage workers organize Unions and negotiate collective Mari-Lynn is the former Vice-President of SUMMA/Cleve- bargaining agreements. Folabi has been active in the global land Clinic Heath Systems and a Senior Advisor for Procter movement linking environmental, labor, corporate account- and Gamble and The American Embassies. She is an 8 time ability, and human rights issues in the U.S. since 1992. As a National Institute of Health funded researcher and winner labor activist, he helped coordinate U.S. labor efforts on the of the US Small Business “Tibbett’s Award”. She is West international campaign to save the life of Ken Saro Wiwa and Virginia’s Filmmaker of the Year and has produced over 30 restore democracy to his native country, Nigeria. Folabi holds television programs. She is from Bulltown, West Virginia. a doctorate in political science from the George Washington University. JOSH FOX has been recognized as a campaigner for those suffering the negative effects of a JIVA MANSKE is a Field Organizer for Washing- worldwide gas extraction explosion brought ton DC, MD, VA and WV, where he supports the about by the new method of hydraulic fractur- leadership development and organizing efforts ing, called fracking. Fracking has a horrific of local and student activists. Jiva comes to impact on the environment, public health and human rights. Amnesty with extensive experience in conflict Through his extensive work in the United States and in over resolution and grass roots advocacy work. Before joining the 20 countries and due to the success of his Emmy-winning Amnesty team, he worked with Comienzos, a small nonprofit film GASLAND and other media he has created, Fox has in his hometown of Albuquerque, NM that offers peace become the international spokesperson on fracking, appearing education programming to inmates at the Bernalillo County

4 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Metropolitan Detention center. During this time he designed KERRY FRANK: I am a rising senior who is cur- curricula, led classes and trainings, and helped to organize an rently enrolled at Johns Hopkins University educational and restorative community with men in a high- with a tentative double major in International felony pod at the jail. Prior to this, he worked primarily as an Studies and Political Science. After a semes- independent educator, facilitating workshops on communica- ter of abroad study at American University of tion, conflict resolution, restorative justice, and nonviolent Beirut in Lebanon, I sought to join the Amnesty International social change with youth, school teachers, prisoners, and community. During that time, I traveled to Jordan, Syria, and community leaders. This experience offered opportunities to Egypt, and with each passing day the Middle East instilled in travel widely, bringing him face to face with children and gov- me a passion to enact change. One Friday night a few weeks ernment officials in Afghanistan, student activists in Iran, and after the Egyptian revolution, I beheld an ‘outdoor’ forum in peace professionals from around the world in Austria and Ro- Tahrir Square where Egyptians exchanged with one another vi- mania; each of these people helped solidify his belief that the sions for their future political reality in light of the deposing of world’s challenges can be best addressed by following the lead the Mubarak regime. While the scene certainly inspired hope of the world’s most marginalized. He holds an MA in Peace for the future of Egypt, I could not ignore one glaring feature and Conflict Studies from the European Peace University and of the demographics of the participants: they were all men a BA in Sociology and Public Policy from Brown University. with the exception of three white women, including myself. The vacuum of female political participation in Egypt was the MEET MARO INTERNS first of many things that acted as a catalyst to reprioritize my values. While abroad, I witnessed human rights’ violations EMILY CLARK recently began work as the coor- on an almost daily basis. I realized the extent to which I had dinator of Amnesty’s Human Rights Education been oblivious about the state of the world outside (and even Service Corps (HRESC) Program. After graduat- sometimes inside) the United States. Therefore, Amnesty ing this spring with a degree in International International seemed like the perfect avenue to be more pro- Relations from Tufts University, she moved to active and involved with human rights’ campaigns worldwide. Washington DC and now works at the Center for Public In- tegrity’s International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. VICTORIA STEVEN is an intern with Amnesty Becoming involved with Amnesty has been a huge learning ex- International’s Mid-Atlantic regional office. perience, and has turned her into a newly enthusiastic activist She is 19 years old and a sophomore at the on the streets. She plans to continue incorporating principles George Washington University. Within the of human rights into her work well into the future. university, Victoria is enrolled in the Elliott School of International Affairs. She plans to major in inter- NIKITA SOMAN: I grew up in Mumbai, India national affairs with a concentration in conflict resolution and moved to the United States in 2005. At and a minor in French. She is interested in both politics the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and human rights and pursued an internship with Amnesty (UMBC) I pursued a degree in Psychology and in order to become further educated about the latter. After Political Science and graduated in May 2010. graduation, Victoria hopes to put her degree to good use Soon after graduating, I became part of Public Allies, an Ame- working for the federal government. riCorps State and National program committed to advancing new leadership and strengthening communities, nonprofits JAMIE O’DONNELL is a junior at Loyola Univer- and civic participation. Through AmeriCorps and Public Allies, sity New Orleans. She’s in Washington D.C. for I was able to work towards grass root community development the semester as a Transforming Communities in Baltimore, Maryland and truly experience the non profit sec- student at the American University Washington tor. This experience combined with an internship at the United Semester Program. As a child, Jamie travelled Way of Central Maryland strengthened my passion to work for to the remote east coast of Nicaragua which sparked her social change. My current internship at Amnesty International interest in global human rights issues. Since her initial trip has given me valuable experience in the field of Human Rights to Nicaragua she has travelled to Spain, Italy, Ireland, and advocacy and will serve as the foundation for future Human Colombia and plans to study abroad in Morocco this coming Rights endeavors. In the Fall of 2012, I plan to pursue a mas- January. After graduation Jamie plans to join the Peace Corps ter’s degree in Public Policy so that I can continue advocating or AmeriCorps before applying to graduate school. for social justice and being an active agent of social change.

5 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference CARLA BOCCELLA is a native of Norristown, PA, Meet the 2011 a suburb of Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, the Cradle of Liberty and the greatest Mid-Atlantic Regional of all American cities. She is a graduate of Temple University with a BA in English Litera- Conference Planning ture and a practicing registered nurse. A member of Amnesty International since 2008, she was one of the organizers for Committee the first annual Get On the Bus DC, and is looking forward to helping with the 2012 rally. In her spare time, Carla volun- ANN CORBETT has been an active Amnesty teers as editor-at-large for Washington Audio Theater. International member for more than 10 years, starting with Group 133 in Somerville, MA. KATHERINE JIANG is a senior at Thomas Jef- With Group 133, she helped organize Get ferson High School for Science and Technology on the Bus for several years before moving in Alexandria, Virginia. She currently serves as to Washington, DC, where she is a current member of the president of her student group, a member of Mid-Atlantic Regional Planning Group. She has also been the 2011 Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference AIUSA’s Kenya Country Specialist since 2005. Ann earned Planning Committee, and a Student Area Coordinator for the a master’s degree in African history from the Johns Hopkins state of Virginia. She has also become involved and interested University and graduated summa cum laude from Wheaton in social media outreach with local companies, and hopes to College in Norton, MA. She is Development Director at Earth- someday study and major in business management. In ad- works, an environmental nonprofit protecting communities dition, Katherine’s interests also include piano, field hockey, and the environment from the impacts of irresponsible energy and biology. When given the opportunity, she also enjoys and mineral development fostering rescue dogs.

BECKY FARRAR works as a contract attorney in KESHEMA DAVIDSON came to Amnesty as a stu- Washington, D.C. Becky is an active member dent area coordinator two years ago where she of the Adams Morgan/Capitol Hill Amnesty served the high school and college students group. She has served in several volunteer in Maryland. Outside of her work for Amnesty, capacities with Amnesty including as Grass- over the past year she has worked for Falling roots Lead on the first Get on theB us-DC and as a Legislative Whistles, a grassroots campaign for peace in the Democratic Coordinator (LC) with AIUSA since 2007. Becky is Co-Chair Republic of Congo and now works with a local DC organiza- of the American Bar Association Section of International tion, Dreams for Kids, an organization that works to provide Law’s International Human Rights Committee. In her spare programs for the city’s underprivileged youth and children time, she is writing a mystery novel and loves to hang out with disabilities. during holidays with her sixteen year old daughter, Emily. Becky chose to study law after several years in the work force where her experiences include human resources, small business management, and publishing and editing a magazine in Naples, Florida. During law school, Becky co-founded and was President of an Amnesty International chapter. As Presi- dent of the Public Service Fellows, Becky helped introduce the Street Law™ at Stetson program (teaching middle school students about law); worked with Gulf Coast Legal Services and the Florida Center for Survivors of Torture; and published Exploring Human Rights Implications of Microfinance in the International Journal of Legal Information, 2009.

6 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Human Rights Agenda for AIUSA

mnesty International is a Nobel Peace Prize-winning SECURITY WITH HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN grassroots human rights organization with 3 million sup- Take Action to End Torture and Terror porters, activists and volunteers in over 150 countries A Terror. Torture. These words rightly make us shudder. Around campaigning for human rights worldwide. We investigate and the world, from Iraq to Sri Lanka to the USA, the cycle of expose abuses, educate and mobilize the public, and work violence between states and armed groups is a global human to protect people wherever freedom, justice and dignity are rights crisis. Countless people have been killed, tortured or held denied. AIUSA campaigns on behalf of individuals at risk, put- outside the law. There is a solution: security with human rights. ting a face to systemic injustice, while also working to change Under international human rights law, acts of terror and torture policies that impact countless lives. By adding your voice to the must end, those responsible must be held accountable, and movement, you become a force for human rights. the rights of victims must be upheld. The Security with Human Rights Campaign works to ensure security for all of us by break- Campaign For Individuals At Risk ing the cycle of terror and torture. Join us! Free Prisoners of Conscience, Protect Human Sign up for the campaign and receive our free action guide Rights Defenders and Others At Risk by e-mailing security@ aiusa.org or call 212.633.4256. Learn In countries around the world, people’s lives are threatened be- more and take action at www.amnestyusa.org/ security. cause of who they are or what they believe. Amnesty International puts protecting individuals at risk of human rights violations at DEATH PENALTY ABOLITION CAMPAIGN the very heart of our work. The campaign mobilizes ordinary peo- Toward a World Without the Death Penalty ple to provide hope and transform lives through simple, powerful Amnesty International opposes the death penalty in all circum- action. We provide rapid response when detainees are tortured stances as the ultimate affront to human rights, violating the and denied basic rights, when human rights defenders face death right to life and the right to be free from cruel, inhuman and threats, and when people are discriminated against because they degrading punishment. In many countries, it is a tool of politi- are poor. We act to aid specific individuals at risk and pressure cal repression. In the U.S., it is applied with bias and inac governments to address underlying human rights issues. curacy, perpetuates the cycle of violence and wastes enormous Visit www.amnestyusa.org/iar to find cases and take action. resources that could be better employed for more constructive Download daily urgent action appeals or sign up to receive methods to achieve justice. The Death Penalty Abolition Cam- them monthly via e-mail. Contact us at [email protected] or call paign directs our work to abolish the death penalty. 202.544.0200 x8193 Visit www.amnestyusa.org/abolish for more information and actions on death penalty abolition. For additional information, DEMAND DIGNITY CAMPAIGN please contact us at dpac@ aiusa.org or call 202.544.0200. Fight Poverty with Human Rights Around the world, thousands of people die every day from CRISIS PREVENTION AND RESPONSE hunger and disease. Untold numbers are denied clean water, Mobilizing for Human Rights Emergencies education and work. Poverty is neither natural nor intractable. The Crisis Prevention and Response (CPR) teams focus on Too often it arises when governments and corporations abuse urgent human rights crises around the world and mobilize human rights, preventing people from living lives of dignity as activists to take action. From crackdowns on political opposition guaranteed by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The and civil society throughout the Middle East and North Africa Demand Dignity Campaign works against the human rights to armed conflict in Sri Lanka and Darfur, CPR stands ready to abuses that imprison people in poverty. AIUSA’s first focus act. We empower activists to advocate for the respect of inter- within the Demand Dignity Campaign is the human rights national human rights, humanitarian and refugee law. Join us to scandal of women dying in pregnancy and childbirth, which fight for the protection of civilians, the provision of humanitarian takes the life of one woman every ninety seconds around the relief and for accountability for grave human rights violations. world, in deaths that are almost always preventable. Visit http://blog.amnestyusa.org/tag/ crisis to read our blog Visit www.amnestyusa.org/demanddignity to learn more and get the latest information on this critical body of work. about the campaign, and to get involved. questions? Contact us For questions and more information, please contact crisis@ at [email protected] or 415.288.1868 amnestyusa.org or call 202.509.8136.

7 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Schedule at-a-Glance

Friday, November 11, 2011

When What Where Details 5: 00 – 10:00pm Registration/Info Table, Member Services, Ideas Fair, National Harbor **Member Services opens at 6:00 and Group Sales Open 1–3 Foyer pm 6:30–8:30pm Welcoming Reception / Volunteer Leader Networking National Harbor 3 Music & Light refreshments served! 8:45 – 10:00pm Cheesecake and Resolutions National Harbor 2 Cheesecake will be served!

Saturday, November 20, 2010

When What Where Details 7:30am – 11pm Ideas Fair Chesapeake D–E 7:30am– 8:30pm** Registration/Info Table, Ideas Fair, and Group National Harbor 1–3 Foyer **Closed from 1:30 to 4:20 pm Sales Open 7:30am – 8:30pm** Member Services Open National Harbor 1–3 Foyer **Closed from 1:30 to 4:20 pm 7:00 – 8:00am Stretch your Activism (Morning Yoga) Chesapeake A Please bring a towel or yoga mat 8:00 – 9:00am Amnesty International Around the World: ICM National Harbor 2–3 Breakfast provided! Report Back 9:00 – 10:00am Opening Plenary National Harbor 2–3 Amy Goodman as keynote speaker 10:15am – 11:45am Workshop block I IAR 101: Write for Rights: Engaging Your Community in Chesapeake A Amnesty’s Global Write–a–thon Demand Dignity 201: Human Rights, Not Corporate Chesapeake F Wrongs: It’s Hell in Niger Delta SWHR 201:How to Win the Torture Debate Chesapeake C DP 101: The Reggie Clemons Case: A Window into the Chesapeake B Death Penalty MENA 101: Becoming an advocate for human rights in Chesapeake J the Middle East and North Africa Lobby Training Chesapeake K AI 101: New Member Orientation National Harbor 1 12:00 – 3:00pm Rise Up: Be the Change! White House Action: Get on the In the Bus Lunch Provided Bus and join the Free Filep Karma Protest Rally 3:30 – 5:00pm Workshop block II Welcome to the Boardroom Chesapeake A Demand Dignity 101: Human Needs are Human Rights Chesapeake B Death Penalty 201: Engaging Abolition Events: Furman Chesapeake C v. Georgia 40 Years Later Immigrants Rights Are Human Rights Chesapeake J (Focus on DREAM Act) From Evil to Understood? Responding to Islamophobia Chesapeake F 10 Years After 9/11 The “A–Ha Moment”—Igniting Activism Through National Harbor 1 Education Tweeting the Revolution: Social Media and Social Chesapeake K Change from MENA to Your Smartphone 5:30 – 7:00pm Rise Up: Be the Change! A panel discussion National Harbor 2–3 7:00 – 8:00pm Networking dinner Dinner provided

8 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Sunday, November 13, 2011 – End by 2:00 pm

When What Where Details 7:30am - 10:30am Member Services National Harbor 1-3 Foyer 7:30am - 1pm Registration/Info Table National Harbor 1-3 Foyer 7:30am - 1pm Ideas Fair Chesapeake D-E 7:30-8:45am AND Group Sales Chesapeake D-E 12:00 - 1:00pm 7:00 - 8:00am Stretch Your Activism: Morning Yoga with Yogi TBD) Chesapeake J 8:30 - 10:00am PA and DE State Planning Chesapeake F Breakfast provided VA and WV State Planning Chesapeake C Breakfast provided DC State Planning Chesapeake B Breakfast provided MD State Planning Chesapeake A Breakfast provided 10:00-12:30am Resolutions Voting Plenary National Harbor 3 12:30 -2:00pm Speakers Panel/Closing Plenary and Activist Awards National Harbor 2 Lunch provided Ceremony 2:30-4:00pm Optional Lobby Workshop for those participating in National Harbor 3 Lobby Day Action

9 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Plenaries

Opening Plenary: Rise Up: Be the Change! When & where: MODERATOR: SPEAKERS: Saturday, November 12 Becky Farrar, Legislative Amy Goodman, Awarding winning investigative journalist & host of 9:00 am Coordinator & Regional Democracy Now! National Harbor 2-3 Conference Planning Curt Goering, Interim Executive Director of Amnesty International Committee Member USA Folabi OIagbaju, Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, Amnesty International USA

Join us to kick off our conference programming with an inspiring and informative session. Amy Goodman will be speaking to the theme of our regional conference by discussing the importance of the global Justice for Troy Davis movement for death penalty abolition campaign in the US. She will also connect these struggles to the East Timorese Independence movement as we come up to the 10 year anniversary of its Independence from Indonesia a country that is the focus of our sustained membership activism around the West Papuan case of Filep Karma, an Amnesty International Prisoner of Conscience.

Rise Up: Be the Change! (A Sharing of Experience) When & where: MODERATOR: Keynote SPEAKERS: Saturday, November 12 Jiva Manske, AIUSA Field Isabel Castillo, founder of DREAM Activist Virginia and co-founder of 5:30pm Organizer the National Immigrant Youth Alliance National Harbor 2-3 Dave Zirin, Award-winning author and radio host Josh Fox Mari-Lynn Evans, CEO and Executive Producer for Evening Star Productions Josh Fox, CEO of International WOW and Director of “Gasland”

2011 has been an incredible year for human rights. We’ve seen an unprecedented uprising across the Middle East and North Africa that will forever transform the region; labor activists fighting for the right to work with dignity and to collectively bargain stood up in Wisconsin and changed the political landscape; and now cities across the country have joined the Occupy Wall Street movement to shine a light on the need for corporate accountability. Our area has not be immured to this revolutionary fervor as we have activists who have been rising up and taking a stand for what they believe in right here in the Mid-Atlantic Region. In this powerful panel we will hear directly from people on the front lines of social change right in our own back yard. Isabel Castillo is one of the strongest voices in the movement for immigrants’ rights, calling for Dreamers to step out of the shadows and into the streets to shout, “Undocumented! Unafraid!” Dave Zirin, author and writer for The Nation has not only been a leader in shining a light on sports and social justice, but also has worked tirelessly to abolish the death penalty for years; as people flooded the streets across the country for Troy Davis, Dave’s voice was one of many that rang loud and clear right here in DC. And Josh Fox and Mari-Lynn Evans have taken their talents as film-makers combined with their experiences growing up in small, poor, rural towns and risen to the forefront of the movement for economic, social, and cultural rights in West Virginia, calling on people to stand up for Blair Mountain and to unite against corporate human right abuses. These four voices are important examples of real people standing up for justice, and participating in a movement for human rights and social justice in communities that are most affected by abuses and violations.

10 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Resolutions Working Party & Voting Plenary When & where: Sunday, November 13 10:00 am National Harbor 2

Working Parties and voting plenaries processes are combined this year. Resolutions which are passed at this Regional Conference are placed on the agenda of a Working Party at the AGM. Voting on Resolutions at the 2011 Regional Conferences will be done using voting cards. Members and group representatives are eligible to vote. To obtain a Voting Card at the Regional Conference, you must be recorded as a national member of AIUSA (having paid dues to AIUSA or submitted a valid dues waiver in the past year) or be designated as a group representative (one vote per group) and submit a Group Voting Authorization Form. Resolutions passed at the Regional Conference will be sent to the Annual General Meeting for a final vote before presentation to theB oard of Directors. For more information on the Resolutions or the process, see the Resolutions Packet which you can pick up with your voting card at Member Services.

Closing Plenary and Activist Awards Ceremony When & where: MODERATOR: SPEAKERS: Sunday, November 13 Eben Kirksey, cultural Audryne Karma, Daughter of Filep Karma, Amnesty International 12:30pm anthropologist, CUNY Prisoner of Conscience and Mid-Atlantic Special Focus Case. National Harbor 2 Graduate Center

Join us for the closing plenary with a focus on human rights defenders. Since its founding in 1961, Amnesty International through its members’ activism has helped secure the release of tens of thousands prisoners of conscience throughout the world. Working on POC and individuals at risk cases still form the cornerstone of our campaigning efforts and is an overarching area of work which informs all our campaigns. At this closing plenary, we will hear about the personal testimony of Audryne Karma about her father’s struggle for human rights, personal freedom and human dignity and the costs of his rising up, taking a stand and becoming the change for which he advocates.

11 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Rise Up! Get on the Bus!! Be the Change!!! Join the White House Flash Mob to Free Filep Karma

In the true spirit of our Regional Conference theme, we invite all conference participants to join us for a special Free Filep Karma Flash Mob Action at the Lafayette Park in front of the White House.

President Obama will be attending the East Asia Summit in Bali on November 19th and we need to make sure that human rights and individual freedom take center stage on his visit.

CALL ON PRESIDENT OBAMA TO TAKE A MESSAGE OF HOPE AND FREEDOM TO FILEP KARMA, AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL PRISONER OF CONSCIENCE AND MID-ATLANTIC SPECIAL FOCUS CASE.

YES, WE CAN SECURE THE IMMEDIATE & UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF FILEP KARMA!

Buses will be leaving the conference site at 12 noon. Boxed lunches will be served on the Bus!!

Where: Board Buses in front of the Hotel When: Saturday, November 12th at 12:00 pm WHO: YOU! speakers: Audryne Karma – Daughter of Filep Karma background information: In May 2005, Filep Karma and Yusak Pakage were sentenced to 15 years and 10 years respectively for raising the West Papuan morning star flag at a peaceful, non-violent demonstration. While Amnesty International takes no position on the political status of any province in Indonesia, it believes the right to freedom of expression includes the right to peacefully advocate independence. Amnesty International considers Filep Karma to be a prisoner of conscience and calls on the Indonesian authorities to free him immediately and unconditionally.

For more information and background on the case, please visit www.amnestyusa.org/action/special/karmapakage.html/.

12 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Special Programming

Friday, November 11 Amnesty International Around the World

Welcoming Reception with Drum Circle TIME: 8:00 am – 9:00 am by Kristen Arant LOCATION: National Harbor 2-3

TIME: 6:30 –7:00 pm What is the movement up to? What do AI USA, AI UK, AI Japan and LOCATION: Jason National Harbor 3 AI Germany have to do with one another? What is the International Council Meeting (ICM) and what is that meeting’s purpose? These Reunite with your Amnesty International friends and meet new sections, among others, met this year in the Netherlands to discuss ones at our annual Welcoming Network Reception. Light refresh- the future of the movement. Join us in this session to learn what was ments will be served. Join the drum circle with Kristen Arant, a discussed, what decisions were made and what the impacts will be DC-based Drum Lady. for AI USA. Discussion will be led by Curt Goering, AIUSA Interim Executive Director.

Networking With Volunteer Leaders Sunday, November 13 TIME: 6:30 –7:00 pm LOCATION: National Harbor 3 Stretch Your Activism: Morning Yoga

Curious about what the various AIUSA volunteer leaders do and TIME: 7:00 – 8:00 am how you can work with them or become a volunteer leader yourself? LOCATION: Chesapeake J Network with Amnesty International volunteer leaders; learn how you can deepen your engagement within the organization. New members Get your morning yoga workout and be ready to take action for a connect with Amnesty International Ambassadors for the weekend, better and more just world! Join us for invigorating morning yoga with get your questions answered, and learn about volunteer opportunities Allison Howard. Namaste.

Cheesecake and Resolutions

TIME: 8:45 – 10:00 pm LOCATION: National Harbor 2

Get to know the resolutions process, discuss the current resolutions, and eat cheesecake! Join Samantha Shoemaker, the Mid-Atlantic representative to the National Resolutions Committee, and other AIUSA members for this celebration of your organizational citizenship.

Saturday, November 12

Stretch Your Activism: Morning Yoga

TIME: 7:00 – 8:00 am LOCATION: Chesapeake A

Need yoga to wake up? Or, always wanted to try it, but haven’t had the chance? Join Allison Howard, our former intern and yoga instructor, for a morning session to get you ready for a full day of activism! Namaste.

13 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Oil spills, waste dumping and gas flaring are everywhere in Nigeria’s Workshop Block I oil-producing Niger Delta region. The pollution that results damages the soil, air and water, gravely impacting the rights to health, food, SATURDAY, November 12 10:15AM - 11:45 AM water and livelihood for hundreds of thousands of Nigerians. The failure of Shell and other oil companies to deal with these problems swiftly and the lack of effective cleanup have caused a human rights Write for Rights: Engaging Your Community in AI’s Global and environmental disaster. The Nigerian government has a duty to Write-a-thon protect all Nigerians from the impact of pollution. They must hold the Human Rights, Not Corporate Wrongs: It’S Hell in the Niger Delta oil companies to account for the ugly ecological and human rights (Speakers panel) mess their industry has caused. The Niger Delta is a priority case for Amnesty International as a global movement in our 50th anniversary How to Win the Torture Debate year. Learn what you can do to push Shell and other multinationals to The Reggie Clemons Case: A Window into the Death Penalty commit to cleanup of the Niger Delta, and the Nigerian government to effectively regulate the oil industry. Becoming an Advocate for Human Rights in the Middle East & North Africa ABCs of Lobbying How to Win the Torture Debate Amnesty International 101: New Member Orientation LOCATION: Chesapeake C FACILITATORS: Jamal Watkins, Managing Director Campaigns; Christo- Write for Rights: Engaging Your Community in pher Morgan Reiss, SWHR Member Strategy AI’s Global Write-a-thon Like it or not, thanks to people like former Vice President and water- boarding fan Dick Cheney, American debates about torture are still LOCATION: Chesapeake A focused on whether or not it keeps us safe. Of course it doesn’t --we know torture is ineffective --but it’s also wrong and illegal and must FACILITATORS: Ulana Moroz Senenko, Campaigner; Daniela Rodriguez never be used. But how do we convince others of this and make sure From South Korea to South Dakota, from Portugal to Peru, and the US never tortures again? In this workshop you will learn how to from Canada to Croatia, Amnesty International activists around talk about torture, Guantanamo, Islamophobia and other security the world join forces to Write for Rights during the Global Write- issues with people who are still stuck on the “Does it work or doesn’t a-thon in early December. Last year’s Write-a-thon resulted it work?” debate. Rather than a “stand at the lectern” style of debate, in more than 600,000 actions taken on behalf of prisoners of we’ll focus on interpersonal conversations and learn how best to deal conscience, human rights defenders and others at risk of human with people who are angry, rude and sure you’re wrong. We’ll use rights abuses. A celebration of International Human Rights Day the case of torture survivor Maher Arar to practice skills for winning on December 10, the Write-a-thon is a fantastic opportunity to people to our side and changing the national discussion from “Should engage people in your school or local community in easy-to-do we torture?” to “How can we hold officials like Cheney accountable activism that has an impact. When political activist (and Write- for torture? a-thon case) Femi Peters was released from prison in Gambia last December, his son thanked Amnesty, saying: “I wanted a laptop for Christmas, but I got my father back – the biggest Christmas The Reggie Clemons Case: A Window into the present ever.” Join us in this interactive session where we’ll pro- Death Penalty vide the tools you’ll need to build a Write for Rights event in your community that will attract new audiences to AI’s human rights LOCATION: Chesapeake B work. Your ideas and creativity will help make this Write-a-thon in FACILITATORS: Brian Evans, Campaigner; Andrea Hall, SDPAC Maryland AI’s 50th anniversary year our best ever! Reggie Clemons was sent to death row as an accomplice in the murder of two white women in St. Louis. There’s no physical Human Rights, Not Corporate Wrongs: It’s Hell evidence. He was convicted on the testimony of two witnesses: the in the Niger Delta (Speakers panel) man who initially confessed and another who got a lesser sentence for testifying. Reggie has always maintained his innocence. The case LOCATION: Chesapeake F includes egregious reports of police brutality, prosecutor misconduct, an inadequate defense, racial bias and a stacked jury. Through the MODERATOR: Ellen Dorsey, Demand Dignity Member Strategy story of Reggie Clemons, come and learn why AI asserts that the PANELISTS: Katherine Redford, Esq., Co-Founder and US Office death penalty is a human rights violation. Come and learn how to Director of EarthRights International; Emira Woods, Co-Director of effectively communicate our abolitionist position and what you can do Foreign Policy In Focus, Institute for Policy Studies; Charlie Cray, to advance abolition by working on this emblematic case. Research Specialist Greenpeace

14 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Becoming an Advocate for Human Rights in the Workshop Block II Middle East & North Africa SATURDAY, November 12 3:30PM - 5:00 PM

LOCATION: Chesapeake J From Evil to Understood? Responding to Islamophobia 10 Years FACILITATORS: Christopher Koetti, Campaigner; Geoffrey Mock, After 9/11 Volunteer Leader Demand Dignity: Human Needs are Human Rights. The recent months have seen historic change throughout the Middle Engaging Abolition Events: Fruman v. Georgia 40 Years Later. East and North Africa. Citizens across the region continue taking to Immigrants’ Rights Are Human Rights. the streets to demand their basic human rights and dignity. In this workshop participants will learn both about long-term human rights The “A-Ha Moment” — Igniting Activism Through Education issues in the region as well as about abuses in the context of the Tweeting the Revolution: Social Media and Social Change from recent popular uprisings. This will be done through specific case MENA to Your Smartphone studies. Activists will then practice to become successful advocates on human rights issues in the MENA region and learn about available Welcome to the Boardroom: An Open Discussion resources. Since the situation in the regions remains extremely vola- tile, participants will also become skilled at how to quickly respond to escalating situations. From Evil to Understood? Responding to Islamophobia 10 Years After 9/11

ABCs of Lobbying: Win Rights Victories in LOCATION: Chesapeake F Washington FACILITATOR: Abbas Jaffer, Doctoral student in Anthropology at Harvard University; Darakshan Raja, Security with Human Rights LOCATION: Chesapeake K Member Strategy

FACILITATORS: Chris McGraw, Grassroots Advocacy Director; In the decade since the attacks on 9/11, America has dealt (and con- Becky Farrar, Legislative Coordinator tinues to deal) with the threat of violent extremism through the lens of security. What is often missed in this approach is tackling issues Push your elected officials in Congress to champion human rights. of hate against Muslims and groups that are assumed to be Muslim. Delve into basic and advanced lobbying techniques with experienced Whether in our media, schools, or in politics, Islamophobia is far from advocates, Becky Farrar, Legislative Coordinator for Washington DC disappearing. In this workshop, activists will gain concrete tools to and Chris McGraw, Grassroots Advocacy Director. Amnesty members understand and address discrimination against Muslims as part of have pushed the most powerful government in the world to secure their human rights work. the release of prisoners of conscience and to enact human rights legislation like the Tribal Law and Order Act. Get the untold secrets to enlisting your Representatives on behalf of immigrant rights and rights to maternal health and learn how to get Congresses to help free Demand Dignity: Human Needs are our Special Focus Case prisoner Filep Karma! Human Rights

LOCATION: Chesapeake B Amnesty International 101: New Member MODERATORS: Jason Disterhoft, Campaigner; Lisa Schechtman, Orientation Member Women’s Human Right Coordination Group

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees not only LOCATION: National Harbor 1 civil and political rights like freedom of expression and the right to FACILITATORS: Cecili Thompson Williams, Assistant Director, Center a fair trial, but also economic, social and cultural rights like access for Human Rights & Humanitarian Law, American University Wash- to health care, adequate housing, and a healthy environment. The ington College of Law; Maha Hilal, Student Area Coordinator Demand Dignity Campaign works to advance ESCR, especially for people living in poverty. We work for the rights to health and housing, What exactly does AI work for? How did AI get started? Who makes and against corporate abuses of ESCR. In this workshop, learn about the decisions? How do I find out the meaning of all these acronyms? the basics of ESCR, and take action to end oil pollution in Nigeria, How does the human rights framework work? What is the social guarantee safe childbirth for women in the United States, and stop movement history that brought us human rights? These questions and forced evictions around the world. more are answered in this participatory workshop. New members are strongly encouraged to attend this foundational workshop.

15 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Workship Block II (continued) AIUSA’s work on Human Rights Education and history and methodol- ogy of the broader field of human rights education. Participants will learn how to take Human Rights Education back to their communities to build up the ranks of the human rights movement! Engaging Abolition Events: Furman v. Georgia 40 Years Later. Tweeting the Revolution: Social Media and LOCATION: Chesapeake C Social Change from MENA to Your Smartphone FACILITATORS: Brian Evans, Campaigner; Mona Cadena, Equal Justice USA LOCATION: Chesapeake K FACILITATORS: David Danforth, New Media Production Associate; In 1972, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the death penalty was Sahar Khamis, Assistant Professor in the Department of Communica- unconstitutional, being practiced in an “arbitrary and capricious” tion at the University of Maryland, College Park way. Forty years later it is equally, if not more, unjust. Come and learn about this landmark case and the modern history of the death As people have risen up across the Middle East and North Africa, penalty. We will also share practical tips on how to organize power- we’ve witnessed a revolution in the way people communicate with ful events to effectively engage and educate your community about each other at the grass roots for a political cause. Organizers in the death penalty. Learn about speakers, videos, literature and other Egypt and Tunisia used Facebook to bring people together and build resources you can access to put on a significant event around Death momentum for human rights. #Jan25 became a virtual anthem Penalty Action Weeks (Feb 27-Mar 11) to commemorate the Furman across the world of Twitter that helped galvanize a movement. From decision. blogs to text messages to status updates, social media has become a vital part of creating social change. But how does social media work, and how can Facebook, Twitter, and blogging make us better Immigrants’ Rights Are Human Rights! better human rights advocates? How did 1 Million Tweets for Troy Davis translate into thousands of people taking to the streets across LOCATION: Chesapeake J the country?In this workshop we’ll answer these and other questions FACILITATOR: Purvi Patel, Student Area Coordinator by looking at the impact of social media on the organizing efforts in the Middle East and North Africa. We will also cover how to support Every day across the world people make the difficult decision to leave important causes and amplify your own activism right here at home their homes, and every day, people cross the border into the United using social media. Focusing on Twitter in particular, we’ll learn States, migrating in hopes of a new life. They may be forced to leave valuable tips to take activism to the next level, whether that means because they do not have access to adequate food, water or shelter, opening your new account, organizing your next event, or mobilizing or in order to ensure the safety and security of themselves and their the masses for human rights. Staytuned! families. They may move to take up employment, or to be reunited with family members. Many leave for a combination of reasons. What- ever the reason, however, all have human rights. In this workshop, we Welcome to the Boardroom: An Open Discussion will explore the ways that we can fight for the human rights of immigrants right now. From shining a light on abuse in detention centers, LOCATION: Chesapeake A to lobbying for the DREAM Act, to fighting against state-level bills MODERATOR: Pratap Chatterjee, Board Member that tear apart families and instill fear across immigrant communities, Amnesty members around the country are standing up and shouting What’s it like to be a member of the AIUSA Board of Directors? How “immigrants’ rights ARE human rights!” can you become a Director? What human rights and governance issues is the Board grappling with? Get answers to these questions as well as your own at this Board 101 introduction with Board members The “A-Ha Moment”—Igniting Activism Through from your region. Education

LOCATION: National Harbor 1 FACILITATORS: Emily Clark, Human Rights Education Service Corps Volunteer Coordinator; Jennifer Bronson, Former Human Rights Education Service Corps Volunteer Coordinator

Human Rights Education is a powerful tactic for our activism, because education breaks down stereotypes and exposes people to the possibility of change. At this workshop, participants will learn about

16 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Special Thanks Sustainability Efforts

The Mid-Atlantic Regional Office would like to thank all of the The Mid-Atlantic Regional office believes that human rights moderators, speakers, and facilitators listed in this program and human needs require us to be socially conscious in our book, the Regional Conference Planning Committee, AIUSA event planning. Over the last three years we have undertaken interns involved with the conference, volunteers and staff who efforts to decrease the footprint of our events and increase assisted with workshop and special programming preparations, our positive contribution. These steps include: use of the all workshop coordinators for their time and efforts to design most environmentally friendly printing available for all confer- well thought-out sessions, the National Resolutions Committee, ence materials, working with venues which utilize recycling and the Washington, DC Groups for hosting the conference. facilities and have recognized high labor standards, guaran- teeing adequate vegetarian and vegan meal offerings, and se- 2011 Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference Planning curing fair trade coffee. We have also reduced the amount of Committee Members paper used by limiting the number of items in the conference Becky Farrar Keshema Davidson folders, by providing significant bulletin board space for post- Carla Boccella Katherine Jiang ing information and offering recycled paper for note taking. Ann Corbett These efforts were supported in part by contributions from our Conference Sustainers. Mid-Atlantic Regional Planning Group We are constantly seeking additional ways to lessen our Ann Corbett Rami Koskinen footprint and look forward to your continued feedback. Claudia Vandermade Stephanie Viggiano Jennifer Price

Conference Art Design Peggy Parker http://www.margaretadamsparker.com

Conference Program Book Design Brad Latham

Conference Program Book, Brochure, and Postcard Printing Harris Lithographics

Conference Sustainers Carla Boccella Stephanie Viggiano

Conference SPONSORS Kirk Bailey Ann Corbett Memari Venous

17 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference About the Hotel

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center National Harbor, MD

Stay Involved! 9/30/11 1:55 PM To learn more about getting involved in your respective communities and about upcoming events, visit our website at www.amnestyusa.org/MARO. There you will find event updates, volunteer opportunities, training resources, as well as our social media links. Friend us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and sign-up for our bi-weekly Messenger E-Newsletter that highlights grassroots activism.) AIUSA-AGM12-STD-f.indd 3

18 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Growing Amnesty International to Confront Urgent Human Rights Issues of our Time

s Amnesty International activists, we are called upon Best Practices for Recruiting New Members: to confront repressive regimes and bring hope to k If you’re not already a member, please visit the Member A millions of people around the world yearning for free- Services table and sign up or visit our website at www. dom, peace, justice, and dignity. Today, we are witness to amnestyusa.org/join to join on-line popular uprisings and bloody government crackdown in the k Next week, tell a friend or a family member about Amnesty Middle East and North Africa, a global economic meltdown International, who we are, what we do, and ask him or her and increasing poverty and inequalities, the outrageous to consider becoming a member execution of Troy Davis by the State of Georgia and wide- k If you’re part of a community or student group, encour- spread abuse of human rights in far too many countries. age your group members and especially group officers to In the face of these challenges, our best hope is to build a become dues paying members vigilant, vibrant, and growing human rights movement. With k Organize a fundraising event and use the funds raised to your help and support, Amnesty International can continue purchase annual memberships for your group members. If to lead the charge against human rights abuses around the your group is hosting an event, ask participants to become world. Amnesty International relies on the support of mem- Amnesty International members using the membership bers like you through annual dues, group assessment fees postcards and other contributions, to increase our capacity to conduct k If you belong to a civic organization or a place of worship Nobel Peace Prize winning research, host conferences that holds a winter holiday gift fair, ask if you can have an such as this one, support our Annual General Meeting, and Amnesty International table where attendees can purchase to support your grassroots activism. Membership brings a gift membership for family and friends other rewards, such as a voice and a vote in organizational governance, access to the “Members Only Section” of our website, and much, much, more.

How You Can Help: Amnesty International’s greatest asset is our members. You are also the most effective organizers for growing our movement. We ask that you help our movement grow by taking stacks of membership cards and using them to recruit new members so that we can continue to win transformative human rights victories.

19 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Universal Declaration of Human Rights Adopted and proclaimed by General Assembly resolution 217 A (III) of 10 December 1948

In 1948, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the Universal Article 5. Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) for all people and all nations. In the No one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treat- UDHR, the United Nations stated in clear and simple terms rights that ment or punishment. belong equally to every person. These rights belong to you. Familiarize yourself with them. Help to promote and defend them. Article 6. Everyone has the right to recognition everywhere as a person before the law. PREAMBLE Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalien- Article 7. able rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of free- All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to dom, justice and peace in the world, equal protection of the law. All are entitled to equal protection against any discrimination in violation of this Declaration and against any incitement to Whereas disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barba- such discrimination. rous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind, and the advent of a world in which human beings shall enjoy freedom of speech and belief Article 8. and freedom from fear and want has been proclaimed as the highest aspira- Everyone has the right to an effective remedy by the competent national tribu- tion of the common people, nals for acts violating the fundamental rights granted him by the constitution or by law. Whereas it is essential, if man is not to be compelled to have recourse, as a last resort, to rebellion against tyranny and oppression, that human rights Article 9. should be protected by the rule of law, No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.

Whereas it is essential to promote the development of friendly relations Article 10. between nations, Everyone is entitled in full equality to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal, in the determination of his rights and obligations Whereas the peoples of the United Nations have in the Charter reaf- and of any criminal charge against him. firmed their faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person and in the equal rights of men and women and have Article 11. determined to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger (1) Everyone charged with a penal offence has the right to be presumed in- freedom, nocent until proved guilty according to law in a public trial at which he has had all the guarantees necessary for his defence. Whereas Member States have pledged themselves to achieve, in co-oper- (2) No one shall be held guilty of any penal offence on account of any act or ation with the United Nations, the promotion of universal respect for and omission which did not constitute a penal offence, under national or international observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms, law, at the time when it was committed. Nor shall a heavier penalty be imposed Whereas a common understanding of these rights and freedoms is of the great- than the one that was applicable at the time the penal offence was committed. est importance for the full realization of this pledge, Article 12. Now, Therefore THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY proclaims THIS UNIVERSAL No one shall be subjected to arbitrary interference with his privacy, family, home DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS as a common standard of achieve- or correspondence, nor to attacks upon his honour and reputation. Everyone has ment for all peoples and all nations, to the end that every individual and the right to the protection of the law against such interference or attacks. every organ of society, keeping this Declaration constantly in mind, shall Article 13. strive by teaching and education to promote respect for these rights and (1) Everyone has the right to freedom of movement and residence within the freedoms and by progressive measures, national and international, to borders of each state. secure their universal and effective recognition and observance, both among the peoples of Member States themselves and among the peoples (2) Everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return of territories under their jurisdiction. to his country.

Article 1. Article 14. All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.They are (1) Everyone has the right to seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a from persecution. spirit of brotherhood. (2) This right may not be invoked in the case of prosecutions genuinely arising Article 2. from non-political crimes or from acts contrary to the purposes and principles of Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declara- the United Nations. tion, without distinction of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, language, Article 15. religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth (1) Everyone has the right to a nationality. or other status. Furthermore, no distinction shall be made on the basis of the political, jurisdictional or international status of the country or territory (2) No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his nationality nor denied the right to to which a person belongs, whether it be independent, trust, non-self- change his nationality. governing or under any other limitation of sovereignty. Article 16. Article 3. (1) Men and women of full age, without any limitation due to race, nationality Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person. or religion, have the right to marry and to found a family. They are entitled to equal rights as to marriage, during marriage and at its dissolution. Article 4. (2) Marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of the No one shall be held in slavery or servitude; slavery and the slave trade shall intending spouses. be prohibited in all their forms. (3) The family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the State.

20 RISE UP BE THE CHANGE! 2011 mid-atlantic regional conference Article 17. Article 26. (1) Everyone has the right to own property alone as well as in association (1) Everyone has the right to education. Education shall be free, at least with others. in the elementary and fundamental stages. Elementary education shall be compulsory. Technical and professional education shall be made generally (2) No one shall be arbitrarily deprived of his property. available and higher education shall be equally accessible to all on the Article 18. basis of merit. Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this (2) Education shall be directed to the full development of the human personal- right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either ity and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his freedoms. It shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance. nations, racial or religious groups, and shall further the activities of the United Article 19. Nations for the maintenance of peace. Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right in- (3) Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be cludes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and given to their children. impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers. Article 27. Article 20. (1) Everyone has the right freely to participate in the cultural life of the commu- (1) Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association. nity, to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits. (2) No one may be compelled to belong to an association. (2) Everyone has the right to the protection of the moral and material interests re- sulting from any scientific, literary or artistic production of which he is the author. Article 21. (1) Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly Article 28. or through freely chosen representatives. Everyone is entitled to a social and international order in which the rights and (2) Everyone has the right of equal access to public service in his country. freedoms set forth in this Declaration can be fully realized. (3) The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; Article 29. this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by (1) Everyone has duties to the community in which alone the free and full universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent development of his personality is possible. free voting procedures. (2) In the exercise of his rights and freedoms, everyone shall be subject only Article 22. to such limitations as are determined by law solely for the purpose of securing Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled due recognition and respect for the rights and freedoms of others and of meet- to realization, through national effort and international co-operation and in ing the just requirements of morality, public order and the general welfare in a accordance with the organization and resources of each State, of the economic, democratic society. social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity and the free develop- (3) These rights and freedoms may in no case be exercised contrary to the ment of his personality. purposes and principles of the United Nations.

Article 23. Article 30. (1) Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and Nothing in this Declaration may be interpreted as implying for any State, group favourable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment. or person any right to engage in any activity or to perform any act aimed at the (2) Everyone, without any discrimination, has the right to equal pay for destruction of any of the rights and freedoms set forth herein. equal work. (3) Everyone who works has the right to just and favourable remuneration ensuring for himself and his family an existence worthy of human dignity, and supplemented, if necessary, by other means of social protection. (4) Everyone has the right to form and to join trade unions for the protection of his interests.

Article 24. Everyone has the right to rest and leisure, including reasonable limitation of working hours and periodic holidays with pay.

Article 25. (1) Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control. (2) Motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. All children, whether born in or out of wedlock, shall enjoy the same social protection.