Amnesty International Club Pens Letters for Change

Letters have the power to change lives, and members of Hamden Hall’s chapter of Amnesty International penned a handful of letters advocating for social justice, promoting human rights, and showing solidarity with those around the world in conjunction with Amnesty International’s Write for Rights Campaign.

On the second floor of the Whitson Building, students gathered together to learn more about Human Rights Day, which is marked on December 10. Reading through this year’s case sheets, which focused on 13 individuals who have been targeted for their protest activities, students wrote letters advocating for justice. These letters are sent to government officials on behalf of the individual.

“This campaign has truly taught me the power of words and how we can be the change we see in the world,” said senior Emily Kogut. “Reading the case sheets and stories inspired me to use my voice, and knowing I can help in some way has been empowering.”

According to advisor and faculty member Paul Gustafson, Hamden Hall has been taking part in this campaign for 12 years resulting in thousands of letters being sent. He noted how putting pen to paper can be the catalyst for direct action. These efforts have not been overlooked as Amnesty International USA has honored Hamden Hall in both 2016 and 2020 for the chapter’s commitment to advocacy.

Senior Frances Gustafson has been working alongside her father, Mr. Gustafson, in the fight for social justice. She commented that “giving a voice to the voiceless is vital” and “the power of collective action can truly make a difference.”

The club will hold another letter-writing session on Monday, December 19, at 2 p.m.

Amnesty International is a Nobel Peace Prize-winning global movement of more than 10 million people who campaign for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all. The organization investigates and exposes abuses, educates, and mobilizes the public, and works to protect people wherever justice, freedom, truth, and dignity are denied.