Introduction
On the 13th-14th of November, I had the privilege of taking part in the Annual Amnesty Conference located in New Inn Yard, London. The event was rich with drive and passion, with speakers from all over the globe voicing their campaigns and humanitarian achievements. I found the talks and activities incredibly inspiring and supportive of the students’ drive to change the world for the better. I also believe that the messages and notions extracted from the conference will stick with me throughout my activism journey for human rights. Within this commentary, I will be focusing on some of the campaigns and issues discussed within the conference; as well as linking useful sites to learn more about each of these amazing campaigns.
Building Stronger Connections
The first event centred around establishing connections with fellow advocates and students. This was essential in building a stable support network to lift and promote campaigns; it also allowed the audience to engage with individuals from all walks of life and with differing advocacy journeys. I found that the talk was a brilliant icebreaker for a seemingly shy audience. When told to interact with the people surrounding us with fake names and occupations; the tension was alleviated almost immediately through this creative activity. This experience had taught us that practicing the process of meeting new people was a vital skill in advocacy, as it meant that our communication and articulation skills were exercised. It also promoted a open mindset among the Amnesty members; enabling the remainder of the conference to be full of constructive networking.
Racial Justice as a Human Right
For me, this talk was the most powerful event within the conference as the anecdotes and experiences were so intimate and personal to the speakers. The panel consisted of multiple members from multiple communities; forming a comprehensive and impactful atmosphere to discuss racial inequality within society. meant that the audience was fully immersed in the speakers’ passion for racial equality; one could really relate to the experiences highlighted. The vitality of racial education was noted multiple times among the speakers as they argued that in order to build a fully informed society, individuals must not be bystanders in the face of racism but they must actively work against racism (addressing both micro and macro aggressions). This emotive and impactful talk displayed the issues regarding race to its full extent within contemporary society and I am incredibly motivated to help make that difference towards a more equal future.
The Right to Protest
This frightening, yet realistic event focused on the changing rules and regulations regarding the right to protest within the UK. The speakers discussed the ever-changing role of the government and police forces when regulating protests. Moreover, the speakers warned the audience of the potential human rights violations that could occur following said changes. The issue of the right to protest has come under scrutiny by multiple humanitarian groups, including Free Periods - a campaign raising awareness and encouraging the provision of free mensuration products. Amika George, the founder highlighted the shift in attitudes towards protests (comparing the last 10 years to recent demonstrations, eg. BLM) and stated that protestors were becoming increasingly frightened of the threat of arrest. This shift has been cited as a determinant of the future of demonstrations and potentially, the future of our right to protest.
Football Welcomes Refugees
This up and coming campaign is a perfect hybrid of sports and social justice. The focus was directed towards encouraging and supporting refugees in perusing their passion for football within local teams. They also celebrate the contribution made by players with refugee backgrounds. Based on this ethos, FWR have been promoting greater social links between different communities and blending a variety of backgrounds in a shared appreciation for football. We heard multiple personal anecdotes from individuals including Shaygan Banusaied, Coach for Arsenal in the Community. His journey from Iran to Middlesborough highlighted the potential this campaign held for the future of diversity in football; as well as the improvement of immigration sentiment within sport. I am an avid believer that this scheme will change the lives of many new migrants for the better, and strengthen the dynamic between sport and social justice.
Closing thoughts
Overall, I found the conference to be an incredibly eye-opening experience in which I formed multiple connections to fellow advocates and campaigns. The atmosphere of the events were full of enthusiasm for human justice and the dedication seen within the panellists was awe-inspiring. I strongly encourage that you participate in next year’s conference to learn more about the impacts campaigns can have on social dynamics, perceptions and actions.
Activism is a challenging process for individuals, but with the right contacts and support- change can be achieved and the journey towards human rights will be fuelled for the better.
Useful links to learn more about the campaigns mentioned:
Football Welcomes Refugees
Free Periods
Protestor rights
Racial Justice and Amnesty
Amnesty Events to get involved in