As an Iranian Canadian, Amnesty International is a charity that touches on issues that are close to my heart.

The political environment in my home country is one which is in complete disarray. Although I love the country, and the culture, I am deeply disturbed by the acts carried out by the government, as they often ruin lives and terrorize families.

Amnesty International is a worldwide movement of people who campaign for internationally recognized human rights. It is these rights that as a Canadian I often take for granted. However, I am reminded by the events that have impacted the lives of my friends and family, that these rights are not enjoyed by all.

One of my closest friends grew up never having met her father. He was a man who spoke openly about his political views. It was this desire to speak freely of his opinions that ended his life. His dream of a society where people can speak freely about their faith and political opinions was crushed by his own countrymen.

Much like my friend’s father did, Amnesty International aims to undertake research and action focused on preventing and ending grave abuses of the rights to physical and mental integrity, freedom of conscience and expression, and freedom from discrimination, within the context of its work to promote all human rights.
— Yasmine Mirabedini