Amnesty Call : Show the Power of Love

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Posted on February 13, 2010 at 01:34 AM

Every Valentine's Day,women in Zimbabwe take to the streets to spread a message of love. They are met by club-swinging anti-riot police intent on silencing them.
Stand up for their rights. Show Zimbabwe the power of love. Read the call of Amnesty and send your warm responses in the letter issued by Michael O'Reilly; Campaign Director-Individuals at Risk (Amnesty International USA) :....Rector Kathuria


Dear Rector,

Valentine's Day is recognized the world over as a day of love. For the women of Zimbabwe, however, it can mean a day of terror.

The Women of Zimbabwe Arise (WOZA) commemorate Valentine's Day by peacefully taking to the streets to spread their message of love: "love of self, of family, of community and of country."

Their message is not welcomed by authorities.

Instead, club-swinging anti-riot police beat the members of WOZA to intimidate activists and deny them their right of free expression and assembly. Just this month, 14 people were arrested, some with violence, as WOZA marched for education reform.

Show the world the power of love. Send Valentines to Zimbabwe.

Later this year Zimbabweans are expected to vote on a new constitution, but the process of constitutional reform has been contentious. The voices of human rights defenders like WOZA are needed now more than ever.

Urge the Zimbabwe authorities to respect human rights and demonstrate their love and care for the people of Zimbabwe. Let WOZA know that they are not alone in their struggle for human rights in Zimbabwe.

Send your Valentines cards, photos and videos to the members of WOZA. Boost their spirits and overwhelm them with love!

From all of us at Amnesty International, we wish you peace, love and dignity this Valentine's Day and every day of the year.


In Solidarity,

Michael O'Reilly
Campaign Director, Individuals at Risk
Amnesty International USA