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History of Amnesty International History of Amnesty International Canada
 “You were my light in the darkness of my jail. You were my hope that pushed me to survive.” Antoinette Chahin, imprisoned and tortured in Lebanon, thanks Amnesty members for their support Other people thank Amnesty. >>  “I support Amnesty because it is a grassroots organization. People can contribute in many ways. I am a mother. I also work with people who are often not given a voice. I am sensitive to small voices and to injustice. Working with Amnesty is a way to give people a voice, to make the world a more equal place. The people I have met through Amnesty give me inspiration.” Seiko Watanabe, Amnesty Canada member, Abbotsford, B.C. Read more >>  
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History of Amnesty International Canada
When Amnesty International was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1977, the Canadian media wanted to see just who these “Amnesty people” were.
CBC-TV’s “Man Alive” told the story of the Amnesty group in Bracebridge, Ontario - which led to many more Canadians wanting to get involved. Judith Brocklehurst, one of the Amnesty members profiled, believes that “the program had a real impact because it showed ordinary people doing this sort of thing.” Later, CBC Radio’s “Morningside” featured a week-long series on Amnesty’s work - again focusing on the activities and commitment of “ordinary” Canadians bringing about extraordinary results.
In 1978, Amnesty Canada reorganized into the Anglophone and Francophone branches. Canadians can join either branch or both, depending on your language preferences and interests. As Amnesty Canada has taken on more responsibilities within the international movement, new leadership opportunities have also become available to our members. Today, some members become experts on human rights issues in a particular country or world region, and act as advisors to fellow members. Volunteer “fieldworkers” support the activities of local members and give public presentations on our work. Other members take the lead on publicity and media projects. Amnesty Canada is a good place to learn leadership skills - and use them to change the world!
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