Friday, May 18, 2007

Torture Awareness Month Activities: Restore Habeas Corpus!

It’s almost June, Torture Awareness Month. Once again, AIUSA will be teaming up with other human rights groups to press Congress to take action against torture and the policies that lead to it. Following the passage of the Military Commissions Act of 2006, this year's activities are more important than ever! We are going to be focusing on legislation to restore the fundamental right to habeas corpus. Without this right, prisoners can be held indefinitely without every being charged with a crime. Worse yet, lack of access to independent courts creates the perfect conditions for torture and other forms of cruel and inhuman treatment!

On June 26th, Torture Victims and Survivors Day, there will be a rally and day of lobbying in Washington. You do not need to have any previous experience—training will be provided. It also appears likely that we will be organizing buses to take people down!

We’re also going to organize a week of meetings with local congressional offices.

I know many of you are students who are nearing the end of another academic year. Please try to stay in touch with the members of your group so that as many people as possible can take part in these important actions. You can also check back here or at www.aiusa.org and for information as it becomes available.

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