January 2021 GTA Newsletter

41 human rights wins to celebrate right now

It’s been a difficult year, but there’s been a lot to celebrate in 2020. From writing letters and taking action to signing petitions and protesting in a safe way, people have come together – despite the most difficult circumstances – to show that change is possible. And if you’re in need of further proof, HERE are 41 inspiring stories that prove why humanity will win in the end.

Amnesty International Toronto Organization (AITO) Monthly Meeting

Please join us for our first monthly AITO members meeting of the new year, taking place Thursday, January 21st at 7 PM.All groups, teams and networks are encouraged to attend to share a report on your plans and activities for the coming year. For new members and volunteers, there are many learning opportunities and it is a great way to discover how the organization works and how you can become more involved.Registration is required in advance, please RSVP at https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUvc-utqTwuG91ttplkg2zgCoQ2fLTx_LUy.We look forward to seeing you there!  For more information please contact aitosecretary@aito.ca.

AI Toronto BHR Indigenous Rights Specialized TeamNext online meeting: Monday January 25th, 7:30pm EST As our Amnesty offices are still closed please note the AI Toronto Business&Human Rights/Indigenous Rights Specialized Team is continuing their monthly meetings online. To join the group and find out more information please contact our team at: amnestytoronto.bhr.ir@gmail.com. We look forward to having you join us!  Youth Leadership Opportunity (16 – 25 yrs old)Do you have a passion for human rights and a desire to develop your leadership skills? Do you want to learn more about Amnesty International’s work? Then the Amnesty International Human Rights College (HRC) is the opportunity for you! Join Amnesty International Canada as a volunteer member of the 2021 HRC Planning Committee! The HRC-PC will plan, organize, and run the Human Rights College. Deadline to apply is January 25! Apply HERE. Photo: Amnesty International Canada (ES) 2019 Human Rights College participants Take Action for an Empowered and Independent Canadian Ombudsperson In late November 2020, the office of the Minister of Small Business, Export Development and International Trade cemented the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE)’s fate, informing our coalition (the Canadian Network on Corporate Accountability) that Canada will not give the CORE the promised powers to compel documents and testimony after all. This is outrageous! Join us in urging the Government of Canada to empower the CORE and enact human rights due diligence legislation without further delay. Details HERE   Refugee Rights Lobby DayJoin our virtual lobby day on the Safe Third Country Agreement, ahead of the appeal, to meet with your Member of Parliament on refugee rights. Training, materials, and guidance will be provided. You will be connected with others in your community who sign-up to take action. More info and registration HERE. Photo: Safe Third Country Agreement Rally in Toronto, 2019 #RechargeForRights: Amnesty Canada launches a new campaignAmnesty International firmly believes that human rights and environmental protections must not be sacrificed to advance climate solutions. At the same time, we cannot ignore the urgency of the climate crisis.  On February 4, Amnesty international will launch a set of guiding principles for governments and companies to address the human rights and environmental challenges of increasing our reliance on rechargeable batteries. We invite you to join us in calling on Canada to power a just energy transition that leaves no one behind. For more information and ways for you to take action check HERE.  Announcing The MATCHSTICK: Amnesty ‘s Youth MagazineThe Amnesty International Canada’s National Organizers presents The Matchstick – a biannual arts + lit magazine created by youth and for youth. This publication aims to raise awareness of human rights violations, magnify the voices of those pursuing equal rights for all, and inspire others to take action.    We invite young artists and human rights defenders, to use theri works of art and literature as tools to drive action.    The Matchstick offers itself as a source of inspiration for budding activists, and a creative space for global solidarity.    Stay tuned to meet the team and find out more on how you can get involved!  This newsletter is produced by Elena Dumitru, National Leadership Development Coordinator, AICS (ES) If you have questions, comments, or would like more information on any aspect of Amnesty’s work, we’d love to hear from you. Please call us at 1-800-AMNESTY (1-800-266-3789) OR by email.